2002-2005 Eclipse & Sebring/Stratus Condenser Fan: Why Your A/C Blows Hot in Traffic

Symptoms of a Failing Condenser Fan

When the A/C condenser fan fails on your 2002-2005 Eclipse or Sebring/Stratus Coupe, the signs are usually very noticeable, especially in warm weather. Here are the most common symptoms to watch for.

• A/C Blows Warm at Idle: This is the most classic symptom. Your A/C might feel cool while driving on the highway, but as soon as you get into stop-and-go traffic or stop at a red light, the air from the vents turns warm or hot. This happens because the fan is no longer pulling air through the condenser to cool the refrigerant when the car is stationary.
• Engine Temperature Creeps Up in Traffic: The condenser fan often serves as a secondary engine cooling fan. If it fails, you might notice the engine temperature gauge rising above normal when you're idling or in slow traffic, but it may return to normal once you start moving at higher speeds.
• Visible Fan Failure: A quick visual check can often confirm the problem. With the engine running and the A/C turned on to its coldest setting, look through the front grille at the fan assembly. The fan blades should be spinning. If they are stationary, the fan has failed.
• Unusual Noises: A failing fan motor bearing can produce grinding, whining, or rattling sounds from the front of the vehicle when the A/C is turned on.
• Burning Smell: In severe cases, a seized motor can overheat, creating a distinct burning smell from the front of the car. This indicates the motor is burning out and can damage other electrical components.

Diagnosing the Problem: Fan, Relay, or Fuse?

Before spending money on a new fan assembly, it's important to confirm that the fan motor itself is the problem. A blown fuse or a bad relay can also prevent the fan from working, and these are much cheaper and easier to fix.

1. Check the Fuses: Using your owner's manual, locate the fuse box in the engine compartment. Find the fuses related to the "Cooling Fan" and "A/C Compressor". Visually inspect them to see if they are blown.
2. Test the Relay: In the same fuse box, locate the cooling fan relay (often labeled "FAN RELAY" or with a fan symbol) and the A/C relay. An easy way to test a relay is to swap it with an identical relay from a non-critical system (like the horn) and see if the fan starts working. If it does, you just need a new relay.
3. Test for Power: If the fuse and relay are good, the final step is to test for power at the fan's electrical connector. Unplug the connector and use a multimeter to check for 12V power when the A/C is on. If you have power and ground at the connector but the fan isn't spinning, the motor has failed and the assembly needs to be replaced.

Buying a Used A/C Condenser Fan Assembly

A used OEM fan assembly can be an excellent value compared to expensive new OEM parts or lower-quality aftermarket options. Here’s what to inspect before you buy.

• Physical Inspection: Carefully examine the entire plastic shroud for any cracks, breaks, or missing mounting tabs. Damage here can cause vibrations or prevent the fan from being securely installed.
• Spin the Blades by Hand: This is the most important check. The fan blades should spin freely and smoothly with very little effort. If you feel any grinding, roughness, or significant resistance, the motor's internal bearings are bad, and you should pass on the part.
• Check for Wobble: Gently try to wiggle the fan blades back and forth. There should be no excessive play or wobble in the motor shaft. A wobbly fan is unbalanced and will be noisy and fail prematurely.
• Inspect the Electrical Connector: Look closely at the electrical connector and pins. Ensure there is no corrosion, melted plastic, or broken locking tabs. A damaged connector can cause an intermittent connection.
• Verify Part Numbers: If possible, match the part number on the used unit to one of the known OEM numbers (e.g., MR315303, 7812A047) to ensure you are getting the correct part for your V6 model.

Cost of Replacement

The cost to replace the A/C condenser fan assembly can vary significantly based on the type of part you choose.

Installation Guide (Difficulty: 2/5)

Replacing the condenser fan assembly is a straightforward job that most DIY mechanics can complete in about 1-2 hours. Access is from the top of the engine bay.

1. Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before beginning any electrical work.
2. Remove Upper Covers: Remove any plastic engine covers or the upper radiator support cover that may be blocking access to the top of the radiator and fan assemblies.
3. Disconnect Hoses (If Necessary): You may need to disconnect the upper radiator hose to create enough clearance. Have a drain pan ready to catch any spilled coolant.
4. Unplug Electrical Connectors: Disconnect the electrical connectors for both the radiator fan and the condenser fan.
5. Unbolt the Fan Assembly: The fan assembly is typically held onto the radiator with several bolts at the top. Remove these bolts.
6. Remove the Assembly: The entire fan shroud assembly (containing both fans) should now be able to be lifted straight up and out of the engine bay.
7. Swap the Fan: Once the assembly is out, you can unbolt the old condenser fan motor and shroud from the main bracket and install the replacement.
8. Re-installation: Installation is the reverse of removal. Carefully lower the assembly back into place, ensuring it seats correctly on the bottom radiator mounts. Re-install the bolts, plug in the connectors, re-attach any hoses, and top off coolant if needed. Reconnect the battery and test the A/C to confirm the new fan operates.

Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs

There are no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Mitsubishi for premature failure of the A/C condenser fan assembly on the 2002-2005 Eclipse. The failures that occur are typically due to the age and normal wear and tear of the electric motor. One related recall (NHTSA 15V338000) for the sun visor also lists the Sebring and Stratus coupes, confirming the shared manufacturing platform for these vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)