Best Automotive Electric Fan Controls of 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Automotive electric fan controls are devices that regulate the operation of electric fans in vehicles. They are designed to maintain the engine's optimal operating temperature by turning the fan on or off as needed. The controls can be manual or automatic and offer different temperature settings. Automatic controls use sensors to detect the engine's temperature and adjust the fan's speed accordingly, while manual controls require the driver to adjust the fan speed manually. These controls are essential for preventing engine damage due to overheating and improving fuel efficiency.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Automotive Electric Fan Controls
Hayden 3651 Thermostatic Fan Control Kit
The Hayden Fan Control Kit by Hayden Automotive offers an adjustable thermostatic fan control, ideal for use with Rapid-Cool and super duty electric fans. It includes gaskets, o-rings, and seals for proper replacement, along with a zinc-coated terminal to prevent corrosion. The screw-in type/thread-in probe allows easy installation in the water jacket or radiator, ensuring efficient cooling. With this kit, you can effortlessly adjust fan settings, maintain optimal fan performance, and prolong the lifespan of your vehicle's cooling system.
Flex-A-Lite Adjustable Fan Controller Kit
The Flex-A-Lite Fan Controller Kit is a compact and adjustable electric fan controller and relay kit that includes a thread-in temperature probe. The potted electronics provide water resistance and protection from vibration. This kit comes with a control module featuring adapter bushings to fit various threaded ports. It allows adjustable fan activation between 160 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring optimal A/C performance by activating the electric fan whenever the A/C is on. It is ideal for enhancing engine cooling in automotive electric single- and dual-fan systems.
Derale Adjustable Fan Controller
The Derale 16749 Adjustable Fan Controller has an adjustable turn-on temperature ranging from 150-240 degree Fahrenheit with a preset turn-off temperature at 10 degrees Fahrenheit below the turn-on temperature. It also has a thread in 3/8 inch NPT probe and a heavy duty 40/60 amp relay. This product is perfect for those who want to control their electric fan's temperature manually, ensuring that it is functioning at the optimal level.
Hayden Automotive 3652 Preset Fan Control
The Hayden Automotive 3652 is a universal add-on thermostatic fan control that comes with a preset temperature of 185 degrees Fahrenheit. It is designed for use with Rapid-Cool and super duty electric fans, and the probe installs easily into the radiator fins. The package dimensions are 8.5" L x 9.88" W x 9" H. This automotive electric fan control is ideal for keeping your vehicle's engine cool and running smoothly.
Mishimoto Adjustable Fan Controller Kit
The Mishimoto Adjustable Fan Controller Kit allows you to easily adjust the activation temperature of your electric fans between 150°F and 240°F. It comes with a probe or 1/8" NPT style temperature sensor and all components needed for installation. The kit includes 7 feet of wire, making it suitable for installation in almost any size vehicle. It is designed to work with 1-2 electric fans, drawing a combined 25 amps or less, and has a built-in A/C override feature.
Flex-A-Lite Variable Speed Controller and Relay Kit with Thread-In Temperature Sensor
The Flex-A-Lite Fan Controller is a versatile automotive electric fan control module designed to enhance the performance of your car's cooling system. With its built-in relay function, there's no need for external relays. The included temperature probe ensures accurate temperature monitoring, and it even comes with thread adapters for easy installation. This fan controller starts the fans at 60 percent power and gradually increases the fan speed as the temperature rises, effectively cooling down your radiator. What's more, it continues to run the fans for up to 25 seconds after the vehicle is turned off, eliminating excess heat from the system. The Flex-A-Lite Fan Controller is the ideal companion for automotive electric dual-fan systems, providing convenience and peace of mind for car enthusiasts.
Dakota Digital PAC-2800BT Fan Controller
The Dakota Digital PAC-2800BT Electronic Fan Controller is a great add-on for any application using an electric fan. It is fully programmable, compatible with different fan applications, and comes with a 70amp relay. The device offers a digital LED readout display for temperature readings and easy installation. It can be used with a water temp gauge or with a dedicated sending unit. A second relay is required for dual fan or two-speed fan operation, sold separately.
Derale 16759 Fan Controller
Derale Fan Controller is a versatile automotive electric fan control unit. You can easily adjust the turn-on temperature between 150-240 degrees Fahrenheit to suit your cooling needs. The preset turn-off temperature ensures efficient operation by automatically shutting off 10 degrees below the set turn-on temperature. With a convenient push-in radiator probe, installation is a breeze. The heavy-duty 40/60 amp relay guarantees reliable performance under heavy loads, making it ideal for cooling systems in various vehicles.
Flex-a-lite 31149 Cooling Module
The Flex-a-lite Cooling Module is an electric fan designed for automotive use. Measuring 18.034 cm in length and 13.462 cm in width, it fits conveniently in various vehicles. Weighing just 2.0 lbs, this module is lightweight, making installation easier for users. Manufactured in the United States, it ensures quality and reliability. With this cooling module, you can effectively manage your vehicle's temperature, enhancing engine performance and longevity. This product is perfect for those looking to upgrade their cooling system with a dependable and efficient solution.
Four Seasons Electric Fan Controller 35879
The Four Seasons Fan Controller, model 35879, is designed to enhance your vehicle's cooling efficiency. This radiator-mounted temperature switch ensures that your fan operates at the optimal temperature, helping to prevent overheating. Weighing just 0.6 pounds and compactly sized, it’s easy to install without adding unnecessary bulk. This reliable part is crucial for maintaining your engine's performance and prolonging its life. With its precise temperature control, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your vehicle stays cool even in tough conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What controls an electric engine fan?
Electric engine fans are typically controlled by a relay, which is in turn controlled by the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM monitors the engine temperature and activates the fan when necessary to cool the engine.
2. What are the different types of fan speed control?
There are different types of fan speed control. Capacitor-based models offer fine, linear control of speed and are smaller in size. Thermostatic models respond directly to temperature and use sensors to switch the fan on or off based on predefined settings. This helps reduce fan noise when usage levels are low.
3. How do I know if my fan control module is bad?
If the cooling fans in your car run continuously, even after the car stops, it might indicate a faulty fan control module. The cooling fan should only come on when the engine starts getting too hot and turn off once the temperature is brought down. Continuous operation of the fan suggests a malfunctioning control module.
4. How are engine cooling fans controlled?
Engine cooling fans are controlled either by a thermostatic switch or by the engine computer (ECU). The fans turn on when the temperature of the coolant goes above a set point and turn off when the temperature drops below that point. This helps regulate the engine temperature and prevent overheating.
5. How does an electric fan manage to run?
When an electric fan is switched on, current flows through it, causing the motor to run. This rotation of the motor drives the fan blades, creating airflow and cooling effect.
6. What switches the car fan?
Electric radiator fans in cars can be switched on either by the ignition switch, running while the engine is working, or by a thermostatic switch. Thermostatically controlled motors activate the fan when the engine coolant rises above normal operating temperature and turn it off when it cools down.
7. Does the capacitor control the fan?
A capacitor is used in a fan to generate a phase difference in the current of the windings, producing a magnetic flux that causes the fan's rotor to move. The capacitor helps in controlling and regulating the operation of the fan motor.
8. What are the three types of speed control?
The three types of speed control for electric motors are flux control method, armature control method, and voltage control method. These methods vary in their approach to adjusting the motor's speed and are used in different applications based on their advantages and requirements.
9. What are the three types of engine cooling fans?
The three common types of engine cooling fans for off-highway equipment are metal, fully-molded, and modular fans. Metal fans are durable and flexible in design but can be heavy. Fully-molded fans are lighter and more efficient, while modular fans offer a balance between durability and weight.
10. What controls the radiator fan speed?
On most modern cars, the radiator fan speed is controlled by the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The ECU receives a signal from the coolant temperature sensor and adjusts the fan speed accordingly to maintain optimal engine temperature.
11. How do you know if your fan relay switch is bad?
Signs of a bad fan relay switch include engine overheating, fans not starting, poor or no functioning of the air conditioner, and the fan not turning off. If you experience any of these issues, it is recommended to have the fan relay switch checked and replaced if necessary.
During our automotive electric fan control research, we found 24 automotive electric fan control products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 10,450 customer reviews through our big data system to write the automotive electric fan controls list. We found that most customers choose automotive electric fan controls with an average price of $31.27.
The automotive electric fan controls are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of automotive electric fan controls, including Hayden Automotive, Flex-a-lite, Derale, Mishimoto, Dakota Digital. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.