cooling

Cooling Fan Relay

for 2021 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4 · FWD

Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years · Jeff Moore — Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years

Difficulty

Easy

Time

18 min

Tools

Steps

✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.

This procedure covers the replacement of the cooling fan relay in a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4, located in the engine compartment relay box.

Warnings

⚠Allow engine to cool completely before starting work to avoid burns from hot components

ℹ️Verify the exact relay location by consulting the diagram on the underside of the relay box cover, as relay positions may vary by model year and equipment

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential

Needle-nose pliers

Flashlight or work light

Relay puller tool

Parts

Cooling fan relay × 1 — Use OEM specification - verify relay number from relay box diagram

Preparation

Ensure the engine is completely cool to the touch
Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
Open hood and secure with prop rod

Procedure

1
Locate the engine compartment relay box
The primary relay box is located on the driver's side of the engine compartment, near the front fender. It is a black rectangular box with multiple relays and fuses inside.
2
Remove the relay box cover
Release the clips securing the relay box cover by pressing the tabs on both sides and lifting upward. The cover will have a diagram showing relay positions on its underside.
3
Identify the cooling fan relay
Locate the cooling fan relay using the diagram on the relay box cover. The cooling fan relay is typically labeled as 'COOLING FAN' or 'FAN' and is usually a larger relay (30A or 40A) in the relay box. Note the relay's orientation before removal.
4
Remove the old cooling fan relay
Grasp the relay firmly and pull straight up with steady pressure to remove it from its socket. If difficult to remove, use needle-nose pliers or a relay puller tool to grip the relay body and pull upward. Do not twist or rock the relay excessively to avoid damaging the socket terminals.
5
Inspect the relay socket
Examine the relay socket terminals for any signs of corrosion, burning, or damage. Check for melted plastic around the socket which would indicate excessive heat. If damage is present, the entire relay box may need replacement.
6
Install the new cooling fan relay
Align the new relay with the socket, ensuring the orientation matches the diagram and the original relay position. Press the relay firmly into the socket until it seats completely. You should feel it click into place. Verify all terminals are fully engaged.
7
Reinstall the relay box cover
Position the relay box cover over the relay box and press down firmly until all clips engage and the cover is fully seated. Verify the cover is secure and flush with the box.

Reassembly

Ensure relay box cover is properly secured with all clips engaged
Close hood and verify it latches properly

Verification

Start the engine and allow it to idle
Turn on the air conditioning system to maximum cool setting
Wait for the engine to reach normal operating temperature (approximately 195°F)
Verify the cooling fan activates when the AC is on or when the engine reaches operating temperature
Listen for the fan motor engaging - you should hear it running from the front of the vehicle
Visually confirm the cooling fan is spinning when activated
Turn off the engine and AC, then restart to verify the fan cycles on and off properly with the AC system

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