I think my notebook's fan is broken

[GRLMGC]

I'm completely computer illiterate. However, it seems to me that my computer is overheating. In fact, I know it's a problem w/ my fan. My question is, my computer is a Dell and I was wondering if I had to buy the fan from them and who can I get to replace it for me? I'm going to LA for the weekend and I was wondering if anyone knows of anyone there who can do it for me? Thanks in advance for any help anyone can give me :)

[trotsky]

1. I assume it's out of warranty?

One thing you can do is get someone to pop it open for you and get the manufacturer/part number of the fan, and Google it on the web. There are lots of PC & notebook spare parts distributors out there - I picked up a bunch of replacement fans for some old Dell Latitude LS machines that we had here at work.

[GRLMGC]

2. Cool

Thanks for the info. It is much appreciated.

[Jersey Devil]

3. This is a common problem with Dell notebooks

A friend of mine whose daughter has a Dell at college has the same problem and he found some info on the net that this is a very common Dell problem that they will not admit and will not service.

His answer - they sell cheap exterior fans at Staples that come in the form of a flat mat (like a mouse pad you put under the notebook) with a fan in it that plug into a USB port and that fixed his problem. Also, blow out the computer vent with compressed air. The problem is that the notebook overheats due to dust collecting inside.