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Autopapyrus · Toyota RAV4 (XA50)
https://autopapyrus.com/guides/toyota/rav4/cooling-fan-replacement/
Compiled automatically from service literature and owner experience. Specs are for the typical configuration — check them against your exact car before you start.

Toyota RAV4 (XA50): Cooling Fan Replacement

The RAV4 XA50 cooling fan is mounted in a single shroud together with the motor and fan blade. Replacement requires draining some of the coolant and removing the upper radiator hose to gain access. The fan is held by four retainers (two upper, two lower) and lifts out upward once released.

Difficulty: Medium Time: 1.5-2 hours Steps: 17 Tools: socket set (10 mm, 12 mm), extensions, ratchet, Phillips screwdriver, pliers, coolant drain pan (2-3 L (0.5-0.8 gal)), marker

Part

  • 🔩 Radiator cooling fan assembly with shroud. OE number 16360-31500 (non-hybrid models, Japan-built) or 16360-0P170 (non-hybrid models, US-built). Aftermarket alternatives: TYC, Dorman, Go-Parts
There's a full repair manual for this car Every system, wiring diagrams and torque specs — not just this job. Haynes and 12 more. See manuals →

Step by step

17 steps
  1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait 3-5 minutes (to let the capacitors discharge).
  2. Remove the air filter housing: disconnect the mass air flow sensor, loosen the intake duct clamp, remove the housing fasteners (10 mm), and take out the assembly.
  3. Remove the coolant reservoir: remove the two mounting bolts (10 mm) and move the reservoir aside without disconnecting the hoses.
  4. Place a drain pan under the radiator drain port (lower right), open the drain valve, and drain 1.5-2 L (1.6-2.1 qt) of coolant.
  5. Squeeze the spring clamp on the upper radiator hose with pliers, slide the clamp 5-7 cm along the hose, and pull the hose off the radiator (leave the other end on the engine).
  6. Remove the two upper fasteners holding the fan shroud to the radiator (10 mm socket with extension).
  7. Raise the vehicle or remove the front lower engine compartment under-covers (Phillips, 10 mm).
  8. From below, remove the two lower fasteners holding the fan shroud (10 mm socket).
  9. Disconnect the fan motor electrical connector (press the locking tab and pull it toward you).
  10. Carefully lift the fan shroud upward, moving the upper radiator hose and wiring harnesses out of the way, and remove the fan from the engine compartment.
  11. Install the new fan in reverse order: lower the shroud into its seat, align the lower retainers, tighten the lower bolts (torque 8-12 N·m (6-9 lb-ft)), then the upper bolts (8-12 N·m (6-9 lb-ft)).
  12. Connect the electrical connector until it clicks.
  13. Fit the upper radiator hose onto the radiator neck, slide the clamp back into position, and squeeze it with pliers.
  14. Reinstall the coolant reservoir and the air filter housing.
  15. Top up with Toyota Long Life Coolant (pink) or an equivalent to the FULL mark on the reservoir.
  16. Reconnect the battery terminal, start the engine, and warm it up to operating temperature (the fan should switch on automatically at 90-95 degrees Celsius). Check for leaks.
  17. After the engine cools down, check the coolant level and top up if necessary.

Common mistakes and warnings

  • Do not run the engine without coolant, because overheating occurs within 2-3 minutes. Use only genuine or specification-compatible coolant (Toyota Super Long Life Coolant in pink, or an ethylene glycol-based equivalent). Mixing different types of antifreeze is not acceptable.