Fix Your Stuff Community Store

Released in May 2020, the 13" MacBook Pro features quad-core Intel 10th generation Core i5 and i7 processors, and Intel Iris Plus integrated graphics. (Model A2251/EMC3348 with four Thunderbolt 3 ports)

68 Questions View all

Options

Left Fan at full speed even when computer is switched off

Hi community,

One day after a long storage time I switched on my MacBook Pro 13" 2020 (A2251) and the left fan was on at full blast all the time — even with the machine switched off. The fan (usually 8881 rpm) only switches off when the machine goes completely out of battery.

I tried SMC and PRAM reset to no avail, reinstalling the operating system didn't help, etc etc. I downloaded MacsFanControl but I can't reduce the speed or switch off the fan using the software (btw, right fan is ok, usually at 0 rpm—maybe to compensate—but can be controlled ok using MacsFanControl). The laptop just went out of warranty and I would like to avoid bringing it in for repair.

I am no expert but it feels like there must be some physical component (like a transistor) that has some issue. There was no water spillage whatsoever (not that I remember of at least), I just left the computer stored in a drawer inside its laptop case (protected from dust) for a few months while on parental leave. However, the computer was stored under a heavy pile of paper sheets (maybe 3-4 pounds). I'm unsure this could have caused the problem.

Could a fan replacement help? I am not convinced of this option because the fan is actually working, what is not working is the control of the fan speed. Any input is welcome!!

Thanks in advance you all,

sil

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

Is this a good question?

Yes No
Score 1
5 Comments

Hi

Has the device been dropped?

It might be a dodgy connection for the fan!

It could be a verity of other things though

by

Hi,

No — it was a while ago, but I doubt I ever dropped it.

Do you suggest trying to open and connect/disconnect the fan first?

by

I would to that first before ordering a new fan

Also while you are in there I would check so see if they are dusty

by

Let run the onboard diagnostics to see what it tells us. Restart your system and press the D key to enter, let us know the error code/s it told you.

Reference: Mac startup key combinations

You might want to install this great app TG Pro. I find it offers a great view into your thermal system between the sensors and fan's.

by

Hi Dan,

I did run the diagnostics and—surprise surprise—Apple tells me "There may be an issue with the fan".

Below are the details:

Reference code: PPF003.

Additional reference code: PPF004.

Any more thoughts?

Thanks!!

by

Add a comment

4 Answers

Filter by:
Most Helpful Newest Oldest
Chosen Solution

Options

Hi

Has the device been dropped?

It might be a dodgy connection for the fan!

I would try disconnecting it and reconnecting it

It could be a verity of other things though

Thanks:-)

Was this answer helpful?

Yes No
Score 1
Add a comment
Most Helpful Answer

Options

Hi Sil

Yes, this does sound like a physical issue, because if you can still turn on your Mac, it sounds like a faulty component. Try getting a new fan first and see what happens.

Also, if you have been using it for a long time, a component might have over heated. I am not 100% sure, though.

Was this answer helpful?

Yes No
Score 1
Add a comment

Options

@silsil Did you get your system wet? Corrosion damage on the logic board could be a cause or its time to replace the fan! MacBook Pro 13" (A2251, 2020) Left Fan

There is a feedback circuit which uses a tach to measure the fan's RPM's it could be damaged or the logic board speed control circuit has issues.

MacBook Pro 13" (A2251, 2020) Left Fan Image

Product

MacBook Pro 13" (A2251, 2020) Left Fan

$79.99

Was this answer helpful?

Yes No
Score 1
Add a comment

Options

Update: I went to the local Apple Store and the person who helped me was able to solve the issue by just disconnecting and reconnecting fans and battery (and free of charge!). He said the connectors were securely in place, so maybe by unplugging the battery something got reset in the circuit (something that had not been fixed by SMC/PRAM reset). @hellomacos your original advice turned out to be the solution! Thanks you all :)

Was this answer helpful?

Yes No
Score 1

1 Comment:

THATS AMAZING!!!!!

Glad you got your Mac back on the road (or on a table or on your lap:-) )

If there anything else you need help with you know where we are!

Thanks:-)

by

Add a comment

Add your answer

sil will be eternally grateful.
View Statistics:

Past 24 Hours: 0

Past 7 Days: 0

Past 30 Days: 8

All Time: 562