NP8130, Failing GPU fan? (grinding noise, higher temperatures)

Hey all,

I've been super-happy with the 8130 I ordered in September. However, about a week ago, one of the fans developed a weird grinding sound. It's only apparent when it kicks into high gear, and it's not disturbingly loud, but it was certainly not there when I received the laptop. In addition, if I flex the case slightly, the noise goes away. This gives me the impression that the fan is perhaps grinding against something within the case very slightly.

Also, I've also noticed that my laptop has been running hotter. My GPU used to idle around 40 degrees C, but it's recently been idling closer to 54 degrees C. In addition, it spends more time in "high gear," when the fan is running faster and louder (as it does under gaming load, for instance). I can't help but think the grinding and the temperatures are related.

Is this something I should consider fixing myself? Would this be covered by warranty?

Thanks in advance!

 

You might want to open the case and check that there isn't anything in or near the fan, as it sounds like there is. For the GPU, you should also blow the fans clean when you're in taking a look at them to see if that lowers your temps. Otherwise, you can try repasting the CPU/GPU as well.

You should contact your retailer if you can't locate the source of the grinding problem though.

 

you could easily open the back panel to see if there's anything messing with the fan, clean out the dust build up as well.

if it's opened, running and still has that sound then it's maybe a faulty fan. best to contact your reseller then.

 

I had the same exact issue with my qosmio, warranty covered everything, they replaced both the fans, heatsinks and repasted. I paid zero dollars!

 

Just a quick update: I decided to go ahead and open up the case. I removed both the CPU and GPU fans, disassembled them, and cleaned most of the dust out of the blades. I also cleaned as much of the dust as was possible from the heatsink arrays near the case's rear vents.

And the problem seems fixed! The grinding sound is definitely quieter, and my temperatures are back within a reasonable range.

Thanks for the help, all!

 

Lol, this reminds me I used to had the exact same problem with my M11X-R1.

I actually disassemble the whole part to reach the fan. And it shock me to find the w̲h̲o̲l̲e̲ fan is covered with black-sticky-disgusting-dust.

Dunno what caused it like that though,
It never sunk into a sewage before

Cleaned it, repasted it, re-assembled, fixed, and sold it.

Sager here I come... Waiting for christmas deals though.

 

wirasontana,

You'd be amazed at how quickly dust can turn to gunk that's very hard to get off components. Even harder when it's a smoker's PC/notebook.

People with cats and dogs as well, hair will get into the pc/notebook and cause fan and heat issues.

It's crucial that people take it upon themselves to clean and maintain their products on a regular basis. For the little amount it takes to do it it's a great investment of your time.

 

It seems I spoke too soon

The noisy fan symptoms are back. It just sort of comes and goes periodically, both at high and low fan speeds. My GPU and CPU temperatures are still acceptable, but the noise is definitely unnerving.

Like I said in a previous post, I removed both the GPU and CPU fans, disassembled and cleaned them, but it hasn't solved my problem. Any other suggestions? I'd love to fix this without having to go a month with my laptop while it's being repaired through warranty.

 

I'd suggest seeing if your reseller can send you a replacement fan for you to swap yourself. Is it both the fans making the noise, or just one? It would be highly unusual to have two faulty fans- which would indicate that it's something else going on.