It's not normal for the fan speed to consistently show 0 RPM, especially if the laptop is overheating. This indicates a problem with either the fan itself, the fan sensor, or the fan control circuitry. Here are some steps to diagnose and potentially fix the issue:
1. Check the Fan Connection
Ensure that the fan is properly connected to the motherboard. If the connection is loose or improperly seated, it can cause the fan to stop working.
2. Update BIOS and Drivers
Sometimes, BIOS updates can resolve issues with hardware detection and management. Check Lenovo’s support website for the latest BIOS and driver updates for your ThinkPad T14s.
3. Check BIOS Settings
Enter the BIOS setup on your laptop (usually by pressing F1 or F2 during startup) and check if there are any fan control settings. Make sure the fan is enabled and set to automatic control.
4. Reinstall Fan Control Software
If you're using third-party software to monitor fan speeds, uninstall and reinstall it to rule out software issues. Also, try different software like HWMonitor or SpeedFan to cross-verify the readings.
5. Run Lenovo Diagnostics
Since you've already run Lenovo diagnostics and it shows 0 RPM, it confirms that the issue is likely with the hardware. However, run a full hardware diagnostic test again to be sure.
6. Check for Physical Obstructions
Even after cleaning, ensure that nothing is obstructing the fan. Any debris or dust can prevent the fan from spinning correctly.
7. Replace the Fan
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, the fan might be faulty. Consider replacing the fan. You can find replacement parts from Lenovo or authorized resellers.
8. Professional Repair
If you're not comfortable performing these checks or if the problem persists, take the laptop to a professional technician or a Lenovo service center for a thorough inspection and repair.
Potential Sensor Issue
If replacing the fan doesn't resolve the issue, it might be a problem with the fan sensor or the motherboard itself. This would typically require professional repair or motherboard replacement.
To summarize, consistent 0 RPM readings and overheating indicate a serious problem that shouldn't be ignored. Follow the steps above to diagnose and address the issue. If you're unable to fix it yourself, seek professional help to prevent potential damage to your laptop from overheating.