How to Test a 2001 Dodge Neon Radiator Fan Relay

The fan relays in your 2001 Dodge Neon turn the engine fans on and off according to a small control voltage. When terminals 85 and 86 are connected to a 12-volt supply, such as the car battery, a coil inside the relay creates a magnetic field. This field pulls a switch closed, allowing current to flow to the fans. When the power is disconnected, the relay closes, opening the switch. A few quick tests with an ohmmeter or multimeter will verify that the relay is working properly.

Instructions

1

Remove the relay. It is located in the junction box under the hood. The box is behind the air cleaner and next to the battery. There is a label on the inside of the lid that shows the location of the relays. Pull the relay out of the fuse box.

2

Test the continuity between terminals 85 and 86 on the relay. They are labeled on a circuit diagram on the side of the relay. Using an ohmmeter, check the resistance in both directions. If the meter reads infinite resistance in both directions, the relay should be replaced.

3

Test the continuity between terminals 30 and 87. There should be infinite resistance (no continuity) between the terminals. If there is continuity, replace the relay.

4

Energize the relay. Connect terminal 86 to the positive battery terminal with a fused jumper cable. Connect terminal 85 to the ground with a jumper cable. This should energize the coil, making the relay click as the connection is closed.

5

Test the continuity between terminals 30 and 87 once more. There should be a connection with very low resistance. If there is no continuity even with the relay energized, replace the relay.