Fan noise from engine bay

[Jack Hubb]

I just recently got my 2001 BMW Z3, and after a little while of driving it, a very loud fan noise started coming from the engine bay. It sounds like an industrial fan in the engine bay. It seems to accelerate as the car does, which it is not supposed to do. I have a suspicion that it might be the fan clutch, but I have no idea. Someone please save me and my car

 

[Duncodin]

I had that too. In my case it turned out to be the water pump. Loosened the belt to check. The water pump bearing was totally knackered. Didn't leak though.

But if it just happens when the car warms up in traffic then it might well be the fan. When the fan comes it can be a little louder than you might expect.

 

[t-tony]

It's the fans viscous drive unit failing. Leaving it will end up shattering the plastic fan and that will trash the radiator. You ought to be able to stop the fan turning with a rolled up newspaper with the engine idling. DO NOT use your fingers (like I used to).

Tony.

 

[Shelly]

 

[Nodzed]

as said, sounds like the viscous coupling on the fan to me.

 

[Jack Hubb]

Much appreciated, I will definitely see if thats it

 

[AntStark]

..one of the cheapest I have found

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/395216448892?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=50eRTumxR02&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=_6jTwpROShi&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

Also check out@StephenK video on You tube on how to replace it

View: https://youtu.be/6emDnJUJkQM?si=wpczpHeA7qRz4_EH

 

[Mint]

Hi Jack and to the forum from me too in Stafford.
Remember when removing the fan/viscous coupling it's a left hand thread

 

[hard top]

to the Forum.

 

[Nodzed]

Viscous Tool

And save yourself some swearing and get one of these.