HP ENVY x360 - 15-cn0003ca CPU Fan Replacement

Introduction

If you are noticing your HP ENVY x360 laptop - 15-cn0003ca running hotter than usual or experiencing frequent overheating issues, it might be time to replace the cooling fan. Over time, dust and wear can impair the performance of the fan, leading to inefficient cooling and potential damage to the laptop's internal components. Replacing the fan can help restore proper cooling, prevent overheating, and extend the life of your laptop.

This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of replacing the fan inside your HP ENVY x360 laptop. While it's a task that requires careful handling and attention to detail, with the right tools and patience, you can successfully replace the fan and keep your laptop running smoothly. Before you begin, make sure to power off the laptop, disconnect it from any power sources, and prepare a clean, static-free workspace. Let's get started!

What you need

Step 1 CPU Cooling Fan

HP ENVY x360 - 15-cn0003ca CPU Fan Replacement, CPU Cooling Fan: step 1, image 1 of 2

HP ENVY x360 - 15-cn0003ca CPU Fan Replacement, CPU Cooling Fan: step 1, image 2 of 2

Tool used on this step:

Anti-Static Wrist Strap

$7.95

Buy

Static-Free Environment: Your workspace should be static-free. Static electricity can cause damage to sensitive electronic components, such as the motherboard, memory modules, or the fan itself.
Put on the anti-static wrist strap and nitrile gloves.
To create a static-free environment, avoid working on high-friction surfaces, such as carpets. Handle sensitive components with care, and avoid touching circuitry with your bare hands.
Make sure the computer is fully turned off before continuing on.

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Step 2

HP ENVY x360 - 15-cn0003ca CPU Fan Replacement: step 2, image 3 of 3

Removing the Back Panel: Flip the laptop onto its top, and remove the six 5.1mm screws using a Phillips #00 screwdriver.
Using a T5 Torx screwdriver, take out the one 4.3mm screw located in the central bottom area of the back cover.
Wedge the iFixit opening tool between the bottom panel and the laptop chassis. Pull upwards to remove the bottom panel.
It is helpful to place removed screws into a plastic container for later reassembly. Make sure the different screw sizes are sorted.

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Step 3

Identifying the Fan Unit: You'll now see the internal components of your HP ENVY x360 laptop. Identify the fan unit within the laptop's internal structure.
Screws establish where the fan is linked to other components within the laptop.
Take note of the wires connected to the fan. Properly identifying these connections will be essential when it comes time to disconnect and reconnect the fan during the replacement process.
While locating the fan, avoid disturbing any other parts unless necessary for the fan replacement. Handle all components with care to prevent damage, and be aware of static discharge to protect sensitive electronics.

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Step 4

Removing the Power Connector: Use the iFixit opening tool to unplug the fan's power connector from the motherboard.

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Step 5

Removing the Fan: Use the Philips #00 screwdriver to remove the seven 2.5mm screws from the designated locations where the fan is secured.
Remove the fan from its housing.

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Step 6

HP ENVY x360 - 15-cn0003ca CPU Fan Replacement: step 6, image 3 of 3

Attaching the Replacement Fan: Position the replacement fan so that it aligns correctly with the screw holes and fits snugly into place. The fan should sit flush with the housing and not have any loose or uneven parts.
Using the appropriate screws (provided with the replacement fan), fasten the new fan securely to the laptop's internal structure. Tighten the screws evenly.
Avoid over-tightening the screws as this could damage the fan or the laptop's internal components.
Reconnecting Power: Locate the power connector. This is a small, multi-pin connector. Align the connector with the corresponding socket and push in.
Take your time and ensure that the replacement fan is securely attached and that the power connector is correctly plugged in.

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Step 7

HP ENVY x360 - 15-cn0003ca CPU Fan Replacement: step 7, image 3 of 3

Positioning the Bottom Panel: Position the laptop's bottom panel back in place over the internal components. Ensure that it aligns correctly with the laptop's chassis.
Using the six 5.1mm and one 4.3mm screws you removed earlier, start screwing them back into their respective holes (refer to step 2 if necessary). Start with one corner and gradually move around the edges to ensure even attachment.
Don't overtighten the screws. Overtightening can damage the threads or the laptop's casing.
Checking for Proper Alignment: Double-check the alignment of the bottom panel. Gently press down on different areas of the bottom panel to ensure there are no bulges or parts that are not fitting correctly.

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Step 8

Test and Verify: Power on the laptop and ensure that the new fan is functioning correctly
Listen closely to the area where the fan is located. You should hear the fan's operation, which typically sounds like a soft humming or whirring noise.
Be alert to any unusual noises, such as loud clicking, grinding, or rattling sounds, that could indicate a problem with the fan installation.
Pay attention to the laptop's temperature as the new fan should help regulate it. You can use software tools or the BIOS settings to monitor the CPU and GPU temperatures and ensure they are within safe operating ranges.
Testing Under Load (Optional): Consider running tasks that will put a significant load on the CPU and GPU of your laptop, such as video rendering or gaming. Monitor the laptop's temperature and fan performance under these conditions to ensure the fan can handle the increased heat production.
Final Verification: If you find that the fan is functioning correctly, you can consider the fan replacement a success.
Addressing Issues (if necessary): If you encounter any problems, address these issues promptly. This may involve revisiting the fan installation to ensure everything is properly connected and aligned.

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Conclusion

By following these steps, you can verify that the new fan in your HP ENVY x360 laptop is functioning correctly and effectively cooling the laptop's internal components. Ensuring proper fan operation is crucial to maintaining the laptop's performance and preventing overheating-related issues.