Question...what would happen if I plugged the
CPU fan into the slot for the case fan, and vice versa?
It may work, but I've never considered this. It may also fry your fan. It may not work and overheat your
CPU(which lowers the lifespan supposedly).
Something is WRONG with this computer
I agree. It sounds like your motherboard is at fault. I would send it back to HP and have them fix it. It should be under warrany still. Call tech support and see if they have any suggestions. Then make em fix it!