Strange noise problem

[-LikesMac-]

Today in the morning I discovered a strange problem with my MBP (Early 2011, 13 inch). It has occurred three times since the beginning of today, and I actually recorded the third instance.

The computer makes a loud noise and seems to vibrate a bit. Also, the fan readings go crazy (they should be at around 2000rpm when idle, right?) when this happens. This problem did not even occur when the computer was in a processor-intensive situation.

Oddly enough, after I recorded that instance it hasn't come up again. Also, editing the video that I put was more processor intensive and increased the fan speeds but nothing like the situation above has happened again.

 

[TheIguana]

Sounds like your fans bearings are going, your best bet would be to replace the fan.

The fans aren't particularly expensive - maybe ~$50 as an out of warranty repair at the Genius Bar if you don't have AppleCare or free if you do. Your other option would be to buy one from iFixit

 

[-LikesMac-]

Sounds like your fans bearings are going, your best bet would be to replace the fan.

The fans aren't particularly expensive - maybe ~$50 as an out of warranty repair at the Genius Bar if you don't have AppleCare or free if you do. Your other option would be to buy one from iFixit

So it wouldn't be the HDD, then? Whew
If I go to the Genius Bar, do I have to schedule an appointment for this type of issue?

 

[T5BRICK]

So it wouldn't be the HDD, then? Whew

You could install something like SMCFanControl and see if adjusting the fan speed up and down changes the sound.

If I go to the Genius Bar, do I have to schedule an appointment for this type of issue?

I would.

 

[-LikesMac-]

This is fail...so I went to the Apple Store for this issue and they had my laptop for two days doing these extensive diagnostic tests (apparently each lasted 16 hours)...when I picked up my MBP they said that there was no loud sound that they heard. Nothing strange like the one that was on video, even though they tested each part of the hardware extensively. Also, they actually cleaned my fans for me. I thought okay, that is nice. So for the rest of that day, my MBP was doing just fine! None of those strange hums or vibrations. Just the usual fan sound with air and whatnot.

Today, just 5 minutes ago it came back. And it might be slightly worse than before. Genius Bar failed at this one.