Skip to main content

Model A1297 Unibody: Early 2009, Mid 2009, Mid 2010, Early 2011 & Late 2011

544 Questions View all

Right fan doesn't work properly.

My problem with my macbook is that the right fan makes this loud metallic sound when it goes above 2000RPM. After a while the right fan stops working and reboots. When the fan goes harder than 4000 RPM it's makes less noise and it just keeps working.

So my question is if someone had a similar problem and how did they fix it? And is it a good thing to try it myself or just go to an apple store?

(edit: spelling in title)

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

Is this a good question?

Score -1
Add a comment

2 Answers

Chosen Solution

It does sound like your fans bearing has gone. Follow Jacks links to the needed steps and part.

But, I suspect you have some underlying issue here than needs to be addressed. Often a system like this is caked up with dust which will push the fans too hard. Make sure to fully scrub down the logic board, heat sink fins (both sides) and the other fan with a soft brush. Using can'ed air blow out the junk. Follow proper ESD practices!

If the system is not that dirty you should consider pulling the logic board fully out so you can apply fresh thermo paste onto the CPU & GPU to get better heat transfer as the old paste is most likely not doing a very good job any more (causing the fans to run hard). Logic board guide

Was this answer helpful?

Score 1
Add a comment

Replace the fan. A guide for another 17" unibody macbook pro would work.

MacBook Pro 17" Unibody (Mid 2010-Late 2011) Right Fan

MacBook Pro 17" Unibody Right Fan Replacement

The repair is an easy repair.

MacBook Pro 17" Unibody (Mid 2010-Late 2011) Right Fan Image

Product

MacBook Pro 17" Unibody (Mid 2010-Late 2011) Right Fan

$34.99

Was this answer helpful?

Score 0
Add a comment

Add your answer

Sam will be eternally grateful.
View Statistics:

Past 24 Hours: 0

Past 7 Days: 0

Past 30 Days: 0

All Time: 428