Help! Engine fan on 2002 Ford Windstar is making loud squealing noise!

Question

Just a little while ago I was pulling into my garage and I heard a popping sound and then it turned into a squealing sound when the engine cooling fan kicked on. The AC and fan inside the car are working, but when the engine fan kicks on to cool the engine down I hear a loud squealing grinding whirring sound...Any ideas what it could be???? THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR HELP:-)

Answer 1

Due to High amperage being drawn from A/C clutch and in side blower going on full blast then you kick in the Electric cooling fan may be Brake lights are on or head lights. I am assuming the Multi grove  multi component belt hasn't been replaced in last two years if thats the case. Then replace the belt and tentioner. it should fix your noisy car.    

Answer 2

Slipping belt.

Answer 3

If you're talking about an electric cooling fan, then either something is hitting the blade or the fan motor itself is worn out. With the engine off take a look under the hood and spin the blade by hand to see if anything is hitting it. Let the engine cool first because some fans will start even with the engine off.

Answer 4

Your fan belt (serpentine belt) could be slipping, or your radiator could be leaking onto the belt. Get that checked.

If that is fine check your water pump, sometimes when the bearing goes in those it will squeak a lot first.

Answer 5

The bearings in the cooling fan motor are bad. Replace the fan. It might cost a little more, but if there are two cooling fans, replace them both since they are the same age.  

Answer 6

the belt is slipping or the belt tensionr spring might be broke causing the popping noise. a bearing would be constant

Answer 7

I would think that it is the fan motor, which has bearings and it is probably on its last leg. I would go in to a shop and ask for a quote, they will at least be able to say for sure if its the fan and probably want charge a thing to quote price. also keep in mind that if the fan goes out completely the engine will run hot. If it holds any weight I work on tractor trailers day in day out for a living diagnosing problems. so it could be as well that something from the road flew up in the fan and having some one look at the sound might make all your problem go away.Hope you have good luck.

Chris  

Answer 8

Im no mechanic, but I believe a belt would need replaced.  Shouldnt cost much at all.  

Answer 9

Want to suggest here that may help. Have someone help look at the fan when you turn your A/C on and make sure it is not the A/C compressor locking up.When you turn your A/C on your cooling fan will automatic start running.If unsure trying this then you can let the engine run with the A/C off and wait patiently for the cooling fan to come on when the thermostat opens. Just a way to help identify the source before guessing at it. Hope this helps.