The GPU is not Turning on/ Fan is not Spinning: 8 Fixes to Try

If your GPU isn’t turning on, that is usually because it’s not connected properly, or it doesn’t have sufficient power. The first thing to do is to doublecheck if the power supply has enough power to support the GPU. If the GPU is not powering, check if it comes with a separate power supply and connect it using the indications from the manufacturer.

1. Check power connections

1. Turn off your computer and unplug it from the power source to avoid any electrical hazards.
2. Open your computer case by unscrewing or sliding off the side panel. Make sure you follow any specific instructions for your case model.
3. Locate the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). It’s usually situated in one of the PCIe slots on the motherboard.
4. Check the power connectors. Ensure that the 6-pin or 8-pin power connectors are firmly plugged into the GPU. Some GPUs require multiple connectors, so ensure all necessary connections are made.
5. Inspect the motherboard connection. Ensure the PCIe slot is seated correctly in the motherboard and that the retention clip is locked.
6. Turn your computer back on and check if the GPU fans start spinning and if the GPU is detected.

Ensuring the power connections are secure can resolve the issue if the GPU wasn’t receiving adequate power initially. If the GPU powers up but it’s not detected, click on the highlighted link to fix it.

2. Reset the BIOS/UEFI settings

1. Turn off the computer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Open the computer case to access the motherboard.
3. Locate the CMOS battery. This is a small, round, silver battery on the motherboard.
4. Remove the CMOS battery by gently pressing the retaining clip and lifting the battery out.
5. Wait for about 5-10 minutes to ensure the BIOS/UEFI settings reset.
6. Reinsert the CMOS battery and ensure it is securely in place.
7. Close the computer case, plug in the computer, and turn it back on.

Resetting the BIOS/UEFI can help if incorrect settings were preventing the GPU from being detected.

3. Test with another GPU or slot

1. Turn off the computer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Open the computer case to access the GPU and motherboard.
3. Remove the current GPU from the PCIe slot by unscrewing the bracket and gently pulling the card out while pressing the retention clip.
4. Insert a different GPU (one that you know works) into the same PCIe slot.
5. Turn on the computer to see if the new GPU is detected and if its fans spin.
6. If the new GPU works, place the original GPU in a different PCIe slot (if available).
7. Turn on the computer again to see if the original GPU is detected.

Testing with another GPU or slot can help determine if the issue is with the GPU, the slot, or another component of the system.

4. Inspect and clean the GPU

1. Turn off the computer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Open the computer case to access the GPU.
3. Remove the GPU from the PCIe slot.
4. Inspect the GPU for any visible signs of damage, such as burnt components or discolored areas.
5. Clean the GPU and PCIe slot using compressed air to remove any dust or debris.
6. Re-insert the GPU into the PCIe slot, ensuring it is seated correctly.
7. Turn on the computer to see if the problem is resolved.

Cleaning the GPU and the PCIe slot can help if dust or debris was causing connectivity issues.

5. Update or reinstall drivers

1. Turn on the computer using the integrated graphics or another functional GPU.
2. Go to the official website of your GPU’s manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, etc.)
3. Download the latest drivers for your specific GPU model.
4. Uninstall the current GPU drivers through the Device Manager:
   • Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
   • Find your GPU under Display Adapters, right-click, and select Uninstall device.
5. Install the new drivers you downloaded.
6. Restart your computer and check if the GPU is now detected.

Updating or reinstalling the drivers can resolve software-related issues that might prevent the GPU from functioning correctly.

6. Check for Overheating

1. Turn off the computer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Open the computer case and inspect the GPU.
3. Check for signs of overheating such as burnt components or warping.
4. Ensure proper airflow by making sure all fans are functioning and there is no dust blocking airflow.
5. Apply new thermal paste to the GPU if you suspect it might be overheating:
   • Carefully remove the GPU cooler.
   • Clean the old thermal paste with isopropyl alcohol.
   • Apply a small amount of new thermal paste to the GPU core.
   • Reattach the cooler and ensure everything is secure.

Preventing overheating can ensure the GPU operates within safe temperature ranges, thus avoiding performance issues.

7. Test with a different power supply

1. Turn off the computer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Open the computer case and locate the power connectors to the GPU and motherboard.
3. Disconnect the current power supply and remove it from the case.
4. Install a different power supply (one you know works and has sufficient wattage).
5. Connect the new power supply to the GPU and motherboard.
6. Turn on the computer and check if the GPU fans start spinning and if the GPU is detected.

A failing or insufficient power supply can cause GPUs not to operate correctly.

8. RMA the GPU

1. Contact the GPU manufacturer or the retailer where you purchased the GPU.
2. Explain the issue you are experiencing with the GPU not powering on.
3. Request an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) if the GPU is still under warranty.
4. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer/retailer to return the GPU for a replacement or repair.

If all else fails, utilizing your warranty and getting a replacement might be the best option.

Regularly cleaning your PC and ensuring proper airflow can prevent many hardware issues. Always keep your drivers updated to avoid software-related problems.

We hope that our guide helped you fix the GPU not powering up issue. If the GPU is detected but the external monitor is not using it, the highlighted guide will help you fix that.

If the GPU is not showing in Task Manager, check this guide to help you restore things to normal.

For any other questions, feel free to check the comments section below and drop us a line.