hello everyone,
so I've recently purchased a 2002 Audi A4 3.0 quattro. I've always done my own work but as this is my first import, there is quite the learning curve.
since i purchased it, it has been throwing one code. P1296 (cooling system malfunction) and the Auxiliary Fan is always on. My initial diagnosis was the control module, but in the last few days i noticed the fan itself was making a whole bunch of noise, and keeps cycling on and off. Now i'm thinking it would probable be better to just replace the entire fan unit and module, so i picked one up off a parts car today for $140.
from the research I've done on the process, it seems as though i have to remove the front bumper cover and pull back the rad to access the fan unit. could anyone confirm this? or is there another way to get access?
also, is there a way to test the actual fan? i feel like if it was just the module, it wouldn't be making so much noise (its almost like a grinding noise coming from the fan, and i can feel the vibrations on my feet under the drivers side dash)

any help would be greatly appreciated