Sudden noise of grinding (almost like chainsaw) appeared. Any ideas what this is?

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Level 1

19 points

Sudden noise of grinding (almost like chainsaw) appeared. Any ideas what this is?

Hello,

As I was using my Mac to browse the web, a sudden noise appeared like griding or like a small chainsaw trying to cut through metal or something. The noise seems to be coming from the middle/top right side of the keyboard of a MacBook Pro.

My MacBook Pro was purchased in Feb-2017 and it is the 15" Mid 2015

The weird thing is that when I lifted the MacBook, the noise seems to soften and then when I rotate it vertically the noise stopped. Once I placed it back flat on the desk the noise reappeared. This behaviour persisted for about 2 minutes or so and now seems to be gone but I am worried about what that could be?

MacBook Pro (Retina, 15-inch, Mid 2015), macOS High Sierra (10.13.3), null

Posted on Mar 15, 2018 3:42 PM

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Answer 1

dobsyyy Author

Level 1

19 points

Mar 16, 2018 2:49 AM in response to etresoft

Hello,

Thank you for the information! My Apple Warranty has expired, but since I have purchased it in the UK there is a Consumer Law in place, do you happen to know if a faulty fan replacement is something that will be covered by the consumer law?

Also, if the sound has settled for now, since I am going on a trip how bad it would be if I use the laptop like this for the next 2 weeks or so until I get back and get it checked out?

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Answer 2

etresoft

Level 8

46,312 points

Mar 16, 2018 6:56 AM in response to dobsyyy

I'm sorry, but I don't know anything about UK Consumer Law.

The fan is not difficult to replace, relatively speaking. Nothing is going to go wrong by repairing the fan sooner, rather than later. But repairing the fan later could potentially cause other problems. That probably isn't likely, but if you are asking for my official recommendation, I have to recommend the safest option, which is to replace the fan now.

If the fan does start making noise again before you get it replaced, try to tap the machine or shake it to make the noise stop. The noise is caused by bearings. A jolt can knock them back into place and prevent the fan from overheating or causing physical damage.

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