PEM Cooling Fan Assy (2.x)

Tesla Roadster (2.x) — PEM Cooling Fan (SPAL) — OEM-Spec Reproduction with Upgraded Mount

We’ve recreated this custom Roadster part to OEM specifications using the original SPAL fan vendor and an improved, thicker aluminum mounting plate for better rigidity and durability. This unit directly replaces the PEM cooling fan on Roadster 2.x vehicles.

Like the 1.5-series units, this SPAL fan is a robust but brush-type design with wear items (brushes, bearings) and no built-in tachometer. The Roadster firmware relies on current sensing to infer fan health; as components wear, current can drift beyond expected thresholds, eventually triggering PEM cooling errors. A common failure in 2.x Roadsters is the Molex combination Pem Cooling Fan socket/plug combination at the CIC board output in the PEM. If the fans are not replaced every 5 years, and brush and bearing wear create additional current draw, these connectors will burn up eventually disabling the car until they can be replaced.

What this fan cools (2.x)

• The Power Electronics Module (PEM) IGBT heat sinks and inverter power stage.
• Maintains safe operating temperatures under normal and spirited driving conditions.

Why this part fails over time

• Brush & bearing wear reduces airflow and shifts current draw.
• No tachometer feedback: PEM monitors current, not RPM; drift can trigger errors.
• Connector limitations: marginal/underrated fan connectors can overheat and degrade.
• System factors: clogged PEM, compromised ducting, or connector issues can induce faults.

Service interval & best practices

• Replace every ~5 years, sooner in hot/dusty or high-duty environments.
• Pair with a PEM Cooling Fan Connector Upgrade to resolve heat/fit issues.
• Consider a new PEM Cooling Duct to restore full airflow.

Adapter cable (no splicing)

Tesla originally cut off the fan’s native connector and spliced a dual-plug cable to mate with the Roadster harness. To avoid
modifying the fan, we offer a purpose-built Cooling Fan Adapter Cable.
One adapter cable is required when installing this fan on Roadster 2.x.

What’s included

• (1) SPAL 12 V DC brush motor squirrel-cage fan — OEM-spec airflow & current profile.
• (1) Upgraded aluminum mounting plate — thicker, more rigid than original.
• Mounting hardware as applicable (when included).
• Adapter cable sold separately: Cooling Fan Adapter Cable.

Key details

Single vs. dual fan note

Some 2.x Roadsters shipped with a single fan; Tesla had been upgrading to a dual-fan configuration. A DIY dual upgrade is possible, but firmware changes are required and can only be performed by a qualified service center (Gruber or Tesla).

Related items

• Cooling Fan Adapter Cable
• PEM Cooling Fan Connector Upgrade
• PEM Cooling Duct Replacement