I have a 2006 Ford focus zx4. It over heats?

The cooling fan makes a grinding noise when it attempts to come on. Do I need a mechanic or can I fix this issue at home. I'm just a regular person who doesn't mind diy to conserve on the dollars. I do know a little about using tools tho.

With the ignition off and the battery ground disconnected, try turning the fan blade by hand. Something may be caught in it. If you see nothing in it is it rough feeling when you turn it? If it is rough then you will need a new one. You can get one from a junkyard way cheaper than a new one!

Be aware that the fan can start running whether or not the ignition is on or off. Also the junkyard will hook up the fan you get to make sure it works, at least the one I go to does!

Open the hood with the engine off and try and spin the fan blades. Sometimes that guard makes that tough, but you can use a screwdriver to get to the fins. No need to disconnect the battery if you don't even have the key in the ignition. The noise could be the motor bearings and that would call for replacing the fan assembly. Easy enough and Mav's recommendation for saving money at a salvage yard, is a good one… But they don't guarantee electrical parts so you HOPE that the used one you buy actually works.