How to Fix Stuck DC Fan

I primarily use contact cleaner for cleaning the sensitive MAF sensor of my Vitara. MAF are mass airflow sensors; electronic sensors that measure the flow of air, sending the measurements to the computer box (ECU) to correctly calculate the needed air-fuel mixture of the engine.

DC Fan and Electronics Contact Cleaner

However, a thought flashed when I saw an old DC fan: maybe I can use the contact cleaner to revive this one. It was a long shot, but it worked!

To fix a stuck DC fan, use electronics contact cleaner to remove the grimes and dirt that are lodged in-between the bearings. Just put the nozzle on the can spout and spray liberally. Rotate the blades to mechanically dislodge the grimes and dirt, then spray some more. Repeat the process until you can rotate the blades freely. Let the fan dry before plugging it again, just to be sure.

I also tried using the contact cleaner on laptop fans, and it worked! Using electronics contact cleaner is the best solution to clean the laptop fans, since most of the time they are hard to remove, so you must clean them in-place. Also, being non-conductive makes it safe to use for laptops.

Electronic contact cleaners are fast-drying and doesn't leave residue. These are available in hardware stores and automotive supplies. Expect to shell out around 200 pesos for a 400mL can, which is the price I paid for my new Hardex brand contact cleaner. You should get one for your garage if you intend to perform some car maintenance by yourself.