Cooling fans, one or 2?

[WagonGuy]

In normal city driving conditions how many fans should come on if the engine gets hotter and the car isn't moving fast enough to create an adequate air flow? One or two?
I've noticed that the engine temp gauge goes beyond the maximum-minimum threshold for about 30 seconds and then drops in slow traffic situations. Trying to replicate it reveled that only one (left side) fan comes on.
Is that normal or should both the fans kick in?

Thanks...

[rr1911]

its normal for only one to come on forgot why

[WagonGuy]

So if only one comes on what's the second one for?

[SD_GR]

One comes on if the A/C and/or the front defog aren't on. Two come on otherwise.

[coldsteel]

both will come on if the engine gets to its warm point.
Also if the a/c is on.
But if you are moving in traffic (like 3k rpms in first or second gear)
only 1 fan will kick on once in while.
Thats why i only hear a low fan noise when looking for parking in a lot.
But if the engine gets warm both will go on regardless.
My observations.

[wrxdrvr]

In normal city driving conditions how many fans should come on if the engine gets hotter and the car isn't moving fast enough to create an adequate air flow? One or two?
I've noticed that the engine temp gauge goes beyond the maximum-minimum threshold for about 30 seconds and then drops in slow traffic situations. Trying to replicate it reveled that only one (left side) fan comes on.
Is that normal or should both the fans kick in?

Thanks...

I don't think I have ever seen my temp gauge move from the usual warmed up position. Check your water level, and maybe "Burp" the coolong system. And yes, normaly just one fan comes on unless the AC is on.

[WagonGuy]

I don't think I have ever seen my temp gauge move from the usual warmed up position. Check your water level, and maybe "Burp" the coolong system. And yes, normaly just one fan comes on unless the AC is on.

Burping it worked. More details here Overheating