It's beginning to look more and more like my problem is a dead cooling fan.

This link shows how to replace the fan. It appears the fan is installed using two Torx connectors (top and bottom) and locking lugs . . . remove the Torx screws, turn the fan housing CCW, pull it out.
http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarti...eplacement.htm

Is it necessary to get under the car to reach the bottom Torx screw? On my 2007 Mini, it looks to me as though there's enough space for me to reach down from the front of the car, feel around, find the bottom Torx screw, remove it , etc., etc.

Has anyone done it this way?

I really don't want to crawl under the car because, five years ago, a piece of road junk ripped the bottom out of my transmission fluid pan. After replacing the pan, I installed a big skid plate that I really don't want to take off . . . I'm basically lazy.

Thanks.

 

I dont know if your car is turboed or not, but let's assume it is, the turbo will be in your way to pull up the fan. if is not turbo, there is a chance it can slide up. To get the the bottom screw (not that i did that but i can imagine), remove the wheel from driver and see if you can use an extension to get to the screw. let us know