Issues with GPU cooling and system instability PC malfunctions due to non-responsive fans
Issues with GPU cooling and system instability PC malfunctions due to non-responsive fans
Hello everyone, I’m facing some problems with my new PC and would love to get your advice. About six weeks ago I assembled a fresh build (details below) and since then I’ve encountered a few recurring issues:
1. Upon startup, the system frequently crashed—either during login or immediately after opening Windows. I resolved it by enabling “PCIe bifurcation (8x/8x)” in the BIOS. Once that was done, everything worked smoothly. However, the symptoms returned more often lately, sometimes causing freezes or a sudden reboot during startup.
2. After fixing the BIOS setting, the PC booted normally but would occasionally behave like it was on a PCIe 16x card (freezing or crashing) or restart abruptly during the boot process.
3. Additionally, the middle and left GPU fans stopped working completely. They didn’t spin up under load and weren’t reachable through any control software. I managed to get them back briefly by removing and reinserting the graphics card twice.
I tried several fixes without success: updating the OS, drivers, and software; deleting/reinstalling fan control tools and drivers; reinstalling Windows; disconnecting/reconnecting PCIe cables; and even resetting the GPU.
Could you help identify what might be causing these problems? Any suggestions on diagnostics or hardware checks would be greatly appreciated!
You probably have insufficient computing power to run Windows while idle ... Ok. First of all, you need your PCIe slot to run at x16 with that monster of GPU you got. x8 should still work, but it isn't normal that you need to cut down for it to work. By the way, you didn't try to clear the CMOS. Do it, it is easy and can solve a lot of issues. In my opinion, it could be two things. The first is that you got a defective motherboard and its time to RMA. Not fun, but it would explain the behavior. Second option, your CPU is not seated properly and a few pins ar not making proper contact. That would explain why it can't spare 16 PCIe lanes for the PCIe GPU slot. The solution is to remove your coller and CPU. Check carefully for bent pins in the socket. Then put the CPU back in place. You need to be very careful with the installation of your CPU cooler or CPU block for it can easily be install with uneven pressure (and that can lead to bad contacts of some pins too). Good luck !
Thanks for your detailed response! I understand the concern about GPU performance on PCIe 16x with high-end boards. The fix involving enabling bifurcation and CMOS reset didn’t resolve the issue, so I’m considering trying the reseat method. Regarding the yellow liquid near the right GPU fan, it seems like possible fan bearing grease. My assumption is that the GPU itself might be faulty. Would you think the motherboard could be the main problem here?
You may interact with the liquid (use a toothpick if it's difficult to reach). The thickness should resemble light oil but can also be greasy in certain situations. If it resembles water, there might be excess moisture or a leak. A faulty fan isn't an issue and can typically be swapped out.