GPU Fans Not Spinning – Causes and Fixes

The first time my GPU fans didn’t spin, I panicked! I thought I had broken my new GPU. After searching online, I learned it’s sometimes normal or an easy fix.

This is often due to Zero RPM mode, dust buildup, or loose connections. Check your power cables, update drivers, and clean the fans to fix the issue quickly.

In this article, we will discuss GPU fans not spinning.

Introduction

Your GPU (graphics processing unit) is a critical part of your computer, responsible for rendering graphics and ensuring smooth gameplay or video performance. The fans on your GPU play an essential role in keeping it cool. But what if your GPU fans stop spinning? Should you be worried? Let’s explore the reasons and solutions.

How Do GPU Fans Work?

Most modern GPUs use active cooling with fans that spin only when needed. Many cards have a Zero RPM mode, meaning the fans won’t spin until the GPU reaches a certain temperature. This helps reduce noise and extend the lifespan of the fans.

Why Are GPU Fans Important?

GPU fans help keep your graphics card cool, preventing overheating and maintaining optimal performance. When the fans don’t spin, your GPU can overheat, leading to thermal throttling or even permanent damage. Understanding the root cause of the issue is crucial to keeping your system running smoothly.

Common Reasons Why GPU Fans Are Not Spinning

Idle Mode or Zero RPM Feature

Many modern GPUs have a feature called “Zero RPM Mode,” where the fans stay off under low temperatures. This is normal behavior and prevents unnecessary noise.

Dust and Dirt Accumulation

Over time, dust can clog the fan blades, preventing them from spinning properly. Too much dust can also block airflow, causing overheating.

Loose or Unplugged Power Cables

Some GPUs require additional power connections from the PSU (power supply unit). If these cables are not connected properly, the fans may not work.

Faulty Fan Bearings or Motors

If your GPU is old, the fan bearings may have worn out, causing them to stop spinning. In such cases, the fans may need to be replaced.

Outdated or Corrupt Drivers

GPU drivers control the hardware functions, including the fans. A corrupt or outdated driver can lead to fan issues.

BIOS or Software Issues

Some settings in the motherboard BIOS or GPU software might interfere with fan operation, causing them to stop working.

Overclocking or Power Limitations

If you’ve manually overclocked your GPU or set a power limit, the fans may not function as expected.

How To Fix GPU Fans Not Spinning?

Try running a demanding application or a GPU stress test. If the fans start spinning under load, then they are working as intended.

Clean the GPU and fans.

Use compressed air or a soft brush to remove dust from the GPU and fan blades. This can help improve airflow and restore fan function.

Check Power Connections

Ensure that the PCIe power cables are properly connected to the GPU. If your GPU requires an external power source, make sure the PSU is supplying adequate power.

Update or Reinstall GPU Drivers

• Open Device Manager > Display Adapters > Right-click on your GPU > Update Driver.
• Alternatively, download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, etc.).

Adjust Fan Curves in Software

Many GPUs allow fan speed customization using software like MSI Afterburner or EVGA Precision X. Adjusting the fan curve can force the fans to spin at lower temperatures.

Reset BIOS Settings

A misconfigured BIOS can cause GPU issues. Resetting your BIOS to default settings can sometimes fix the problem.

Test With Another Power Supply

A failing PSU might not provide enough power to the GPU.If you can, try using a different power supply to check if the issue is related to power delivery.

Replace or Repair the Fans

If the fans are completely dead, replacing them might be the only option. Some GPUs allow fan replacements, but others might require professional repair.

When To Seek Professional Help?

If none of these fixes work, the GPU fans or the card itself may be faulty. If your GPU is under warranty, contact the manufacturer for a replacement or repair.

Preventing GPU Fan Issues in the Future

• Regular Maintenance: Clean your GPU and case every few months.
• Keep Drivers Updated: Regularly check for driver updates to avoid compatibility issues.
• Monitor GPU Temps: Use software to track temperature and performance.

GPU Fans Not Spinning, No Display

If your GPU fans aren’t spinning and there’s no display, it could be a power issue, a faulty PCIe connection, or a dead GPU. Check if the GPU is properly seated, ensure power cables are connected, and try a different PCIe slot or power supply to diagnose the problem.

GPU Fans Not Spinning on Startup

Many GPUs don’t spin their fans on startup unless they reach a certain temperature. This is due to the Zero RPM feature for noise reduction. If the fans never spin, check power connections, update drivers, and ensure your GPU is being detected correctly in the BIOS and system settings.

GPU Fans Not Spinning When Idle

Modern GPUs often use Zero RPM mode, keeping fans off when temperatures are low to reduce noise. This is normal. If fans remain off even under load, check fan curves in software like MSI Afterburner, update drivers, and clean any dust buildup that may be blocking airflow.

AMD GPU Fans Not Spinning

AMD GPUs frequently use Zero RPM mode, meaning fans won’t spin unless needed. If they don’t spin even under load, try adjusting fan curves in Radeon Software, updating drivers, and checking power cables. Cleaning the GPU for dust buildup can also help restore proper fan functionality.

Nvidia GPU Fans Not Spinning

Like AMD, NVIDIA GPUs also feature Zero RPM mode. If fans don’t spin under heavy load, check settings in software like MSI Afterburner or NVIDIA Control Panel. Ensure power cables are connected correctly, update drivers, and remove any dust that may be obstructing fan movement.

GPU Fans Not Spinning Overheating

If your GPU fans aren’t spinning and the GPU is overheating, it may be due to a stuck Zero RPM mode, dust buildup, or faulty fans. Try adjusting the fan curve in software, cleaning the GPU, and ensuring all power connections are properly seated to prevent overheating issues.

GPU Fans Not Spinning Windows 11

Windows 11 updates or driver issues can sometimes cause GPU fan malfunctions. Ensure your GPU drivers are up to date via Device Manager or manufacturer software. Also, check power settings and fan control software to verify that Windows isn’t limiting GPU performance or fan operation.

GPU Fans Not Spinning When They Should

If your GPU fans don’t spin even when under load, check software settings like MSI Afterburner or Radeon Software to ensure correct fan control. Also, inspect power cables, clean dust from the GPU, and test the fans with manual adjustments to rule out hardware failures.

GPU Fan Doesn’t Spin, No Display

A non-spinning GPU fan with no display could indicate power supply failure, a loose PCIe connection, or a dead GPU. Check if the GPU is properly installed, power cables are securely connected, and test with a different power supply or PCIe slot to diagnose the problem.

Monitor Won’t Connect, and GPU Fans Do Not Spin

If your monitor doesn’t detect a signal and GPU fans don’t spin, the GPU may not be receiving power. Check all power connections, reseat the GPU, and ensure the PSU is functioning properly. Try testing the GPU in another system to determine if it’s faulty.

RTX 3060 Fans Not Spinning When Idle on Desktop

This is completely normal. The RTX 3060 features Zero RPM Mode, meaning the fans stay off when the GPU is cool to reduce noise. The fans will start spinning automatically when temperatures rise during gaming or heavy tasks. You can adjust the fan curve using MSI Afterburner if needed.

Fix GPU Fans Not Spinning: Step-By-Step Guide #Shorts

• Check Idle Mode: Many GPUs have Zero RPM mode; fans won’t spin until hot.
• Restart Your PC: Simple but effective.
• Clean the GPU: Dust buildup can block fans.
• • Check Power Cables: Ensure connections are secure.
• Update Drivers: Use NVIDIA/AMD software.
• Adjust Fan Curve: Use MSI Afterburner.
• Test with Another PSU: Power issues can stop fans.
• Replace Faulty Fans: If nothing works, fans may need replacement.

GPU Fans Not Spinning, Display Not Showing, Not Being Able To Power Off My Computer

If your GPU fans don’t spin, there’s no display, and the PC won’t power off, it could indicate a power supply issue, a motherboard failure, or a faulty GPU. Try unplugging the power, reseating the GPU and RAM, checking PSU cables, and resetting the BIOS to fix the issue.

GPU Fans Not Spinning on Boot, Monitor Does Not Show Display Either (New Build)

For a new build, this often happens due to improper GPU installation, loose power cables, or compatibility issues. Ensure the GPU is fully seated in the PCIe slot, connect all required power cables, and check if your motherboard BIOS supports the GPU. Test with a different PSU if needed.

FAQ,s

1. Why Is My GPU Fan Not Spinning?

Your GPU fan may not spin due to Zero RPM Mode, dust buildup, power issues, or a faulty fan. Check if it spins under load, clean dust, update drivers, and ensure power cables are connected.

2. How Hot Is Too Hot For A GPU?

Most GPUs run safely up to 85°C (185°F), but above 90°C (194°F) is too hot and may cause overheating. Keep temperatures below 80°C (176°F) for better performance and lifespan.

3. Is It Normal For My GPU Fans To Not Spin?

Yes, many modern GPUs have a Zero RPM Mode, which keeps the fans off when temperatures are low. They will automatically start spinning when the GPU heats up during gaming or other intensive tasks.

4. How Do I Force My GPU Fans To Spin?

You can manually adjust fan speeds using software like MSI Afterburner, AMD Adrenalin, or NVIDIA Control Panel. Setting a custom fan curve or minimum speed will force the fans to spin even when the GPU is idle.

5. Why Are My Fans on My GPU Not Working?

Possible reasons include Zero RPM Mode, power issues, outdated drivers, dust buildup, or hardware failure. Ensure the GPU is seated properly, clean the fans, update drivers, and check if the power cables are connected correctly.

6. How Do I Know If My GPU Fan Is Broken?

If the fans never spin, even under load, and adjustments in fan control software don’t work, the fan may be damaged or faulty. Try spinning the fan manually if it’s stuck or makes noise; it might need replacement.

7. Why Aren’t My Graphics Card Fans Spinning?

This can be due to Zero RPM Mode, loose power cables, blocked fans, or driver issues. Use software to check fan speed settings, clean dust from the GPU, and ensure power connections are secure.

8. AMD Graphics Card Fans Not Spinning; Computer Shutting Down

If an AMD GPU’s fans don’t spin and the PC shuts down, the GPU might be overheating or lacking power. Check if the power supply is strong enough, clean the fans, adjust settings in AMD Adrenalin, and update drivers.

9. GPU fan suddenly not spinning, causing heavy performance issues when gaming. What To Do?

A sudden stop in GPU fans can cause thermal throttling. Restart your PC, adjust fan curves in MSI Afterburner, clean the GPU, and check power cables. If the fans still don’t work, they may need replacement.

10. Why Is My GPU Fan Not Spinning While Everything Else Seems To Be Working Just Fine?

If your system runs fine but the GPU fan stays off, it may be due to Zero RPM Mode, dust, or a fan failure. If your GPU is overheating, try manually adjusting the fan speed, cleaning the fans, and checking for any power issues.

Conclusion

If your GPU fans are not spinning, don’t panic. Many times, it’s a simple fix, like checking power connections, cleaning dust, or adjusting settings in software. However, if the issue persists, you may need to replace the fans or seek professional help. Regular maintenance and monitoring can prevent such problems from happening in the future.