The GPU fan generates a clicking noise.
The GPU fan generates a clicking noise.
Hello everyone, I recently purchased a used GPU Inno3D RTX 3070 Twin X2. I've started noticing a bothersome noise coming from one of the GPU fans. The other fan appears to be functioning perfectly, and changing the speed doesn't seem to help. I recorded a short clip for you to hear the clicking sound here: https://streamable.com/c0bn4h. When I turn the PC case upside down so the fans face sideways, the noise drops significantly—around 90% less—but it's still faint. Turning the fan off completely eliminates the clicking, suggesting the issue is related to movement. Thank you for your assistance!
The fan seems nearly exhausted, ready to stop working. Because it's a used item, it's unclear if it was used for mining. The extended mining periods can damage cards more quickly than regular use. Check if the card comes with any warranty (it might not be available since it's used), or consider swapping the fans. You can usually locate comparable fans on Newegg by matching the model number from the card and searching for a replacement. Alternatively, you could use 2-inch fans from Ziptie to fit the heatsink.
Thanks for the quick reply. The GPU was used for mining, and the seller mentioned it directly before purchase. He offered a fair price and seemed very reasonable. I was given a 14-day window to resolve any issues, which means I could potentially return it if needed. If the problem is with the fan, I might be able to fix it myself. However, I’m having trouble finding many guides or tutorials about this specific setup.
The fan likely ended up dead from the mining process. Although your particular card lacks many teardown guides because it’s a smaller brand, it probably isn’t too different from other 3070 models. I’d watch a teardown of some other cards first to understand the steps involved in removing the shroud (if you’re comfortable doing so). As for your model, most shrouds don’t need the heatsink taken off—there are usually just a few screws securing them. What I can tell you is that figuring out which screws attach to the heatsink is mostly trial and error, so proceed slowly and carefully. From my experience, it isn’t especially tough to take down a GPU; the real challenge is staying gentle and precise. I believe in you.
I understand, thanks for the details. Since I'm not from the US, it seems challenging to attract new fans in my area. No one appears to be purchasing these locally. Is there a way to temporarily pause the faulty fan and increase the speed of the working one? The noise bothers a lot in quiet spaces, so I need a quick fix. I have an MSI afterburner, but even with a custom curve and enabling the option to override fan speed settings, it can't drop below 30%.
I've managed to prolong the lifespan of certain fans by incorporating new oil or grease into the bearings. These GPU fans typically feature a snap-in mechanism; applying firm pressure to the fan blade hub will release the latch (just be cautious not to damage it), though you should inspect the back first for a removable sticker and a pull-off tool. After gaining access to the interior, a small amount of auto transmission fluid or white lithium grease should suffice to keep it running until you can locate a replacement fan.