Skip to main content

Model A1502 / 2.4, 2.6, or 2.8 GHz dual-core Intel processor / Released October 2013

551 Questions View all

Cannot determine that fan is running, help?

I believe my fan has died. Tried some fan control utilities to bump up fan speed so I could "hear" it, but I still can't determine that it's running. Seems to overheat mildly even with non-intensive use, and at no point can I distinctly hear or feel any indication of an operable fan. Anyone have any ideas for how I might determine if it's working?

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

Is this a good question?

Score 0
5 Comments

You do know that macbook retina fan does not run constant like the other non retina macbooks right? I worked on 2 before I saw this myself. Take the back cover loose , use the macbook until it gets hot turn it on it's side without closing the lid and check the fan.

by

@John - All MBP's use variable speed fans and depending on the temp the fan may not be running at all. The retina class systems are no different here.

by

No you don't understand. I've worked on 4 of the retinas the fan DOES NOT Engage at startup if you haven't worked on one these before then you don't know what your talking about. All the other macbook pro unibody start immediatley the Retina models do not!

If you have one or working on one look for yourself.

by

@John - re-read what you wrote: "You do know that macbook retina fan does not run constant like the other non retina MacBook's right?" You are inferring running not startup. As to start up all that tells you the fan is powered not the state of SMC and the sensors.

by

His questions are about not feeling the fan I'm giving him insight , you can reword it how you want non MBP fan spin at chime, Retina Macbook NO startup at all and sometimes not for long time ,simple.

by

Add a comment

1 Answer

Chosen Solution

I would recommend you use this App: TG Pro. It will allow you to see your fan's RPM as well as what the thermal sensors see graphically. Make sure you remove anything you currently have running before you install this as you don't want it conflicting. Post a screenshot of the sensor & fan status for us to see in your question (edit mode)

As to your fan it maybe in need of cleaning. Dust builds up within the blades as well as the cooling fins in the heat sink. You'll need to open your system and carefully blowout the dust with a can of Can'ed Air and a soft brush to lightly scrub things down.

Do make sure you practice good ESD precautions! It's winter so the air is dry! Static electricity will kill your system.

Was this answer helpful?

Score 2
Add a comment

Add your answer

David Ward will be eternally grateful.
View Statistics:

Past 24 Hours: 0

Past 7 Days: 0

Past 30 Days: 1

All Time: 3,030