Fan making loud noises

[roumancesoireee]

My fan periodically sounds like its struggling to breath but then will stop after maybe 5mins ... should I be concerned?

[richk]

You can clean it out, (search the forum for instructions) but the fan is probably nearing the end of its life

[DenTP4rm]

I would agree with richk. You didn't mention the model or age of your Thinkpad, but, if it's a T6x you are probably looking at a fan replacement. If you used anything to clean it that may have spun the fan blades around you definitely want to plan for a replacement.

I had a fan go out on one of my T60p's. I ordered the replacement fan from ThermalFX. I recommend them, though you can also order direct from Lenovo, if they have it in stock. You might want to compare prices.

Just be sure you get the correct replacement part number from you original fan. I think the ThermalFX site has photos of the fans so you can compare yours with the one you are ordering.

For the replacement process, check out the instruction videos on how do disassemble and reassemble a Thinkpad at Lenovo Service and Support Training.
Good luck,
DenTP4rm