Posted on 4/25/2025

You turn off your car, pull out the key, and start walking away—then you hear it. The engine’s cooling fan is still running. It might catch you off guard, but in many cases, it’s just the system doing its job. On the other hand, if the fan runs for too long or starts behaving differently than usual, it could point to something that needs attention. Modern cooling fans kick in based on temperature, not whether the engine is running. But knowing when it’s normal and when it signals a problem can help you avoid unnecessary wear or unexpected repairs. Normal Operation After Shutdown Under certain conditions, it’s perfectly normal for the fan to keep running after you park. If your engine has been working hard—especially in hot weather, stop-and-go traffic, or while using the A/C—the system may need a little extra time to cool things down ... read more