My prebuilt PC just arrived, and the CPU cooler on the left side looks noticeably tilted or bent. I'm not very experienced with PC building, so I'm unsure whether this is an intentional airflow design or damage from shipping. Should I keep using the computer, ask the builder for a replacement cooler, or return the entire system?
2 Answers
That cooler appears to be damaged rather than intentionally angled. The fins and fans should line up properly, and the heat pipes look like they may have been bent during shipping. Contact the system builder, send them the photo, and request a repair or replacement. I’d avoid using the PC heavily until they’ve inspected it.
This isn’t normal airflow positioning. A bent heat pipe can reduce cooling performance, and in some cases it may stop working effectively. Ask the manufacturer to replace the heatsink or arrange a return instead of trying to straighten it yourself.

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