Laptop screens can get damaged due to various mishaps. Some common causes include dropping your laptop, slamming it shut too hard, closing it with an obstruction in between, or placing heavy objects on top of it. But whatever be the reason, a broken screen is frustrating and can hamper your work and productivity. So you’re probably looking to get it fixed immediately.
Now repairing a laptop screen is not a simple task. So, if you are inexperienced in fixing electronics, it is best to take it to a reliable repair shop. This will probably cost you around $300 depending on your laptop’s model. However, if you are confident in your abilities or want to give it a try, here are instructions for DIY laptop screen repair.
Note: If your laptop has a touch screen, repairing it without professional assistance will be more difficult. This is owing to the intricacy of touchscreen displays, which include things like sensitivity.
1. Model identification and damage assessment
Model identification:
Before beginning the screen replacement process, you must identify your laptop’s brand and model. This information can usually be found on stickers below the laptop or beside the touchpad. Or you can check the manual or the box that came with your computer. By identifying the model, you can look for and purchase the correct replacement screen required for the laptop screen repair.
Damage assessment:
Next, you need to confirm whether the laptop’s screen is the only component that has been affected. For it, connect your laptop to an external display and try opening files, running applications and playing videos. If the laptop functions without any issues when connected to the external display, you can reasonably conclude that it is only the screen that requires repair.
But if the computer makes strange noises, crashes frequently, glitches, or results in a blue screen, it means that a new screen alone won’t solve the problem. And your laptop will require more comprehensive repairs.
Likewise, you also need to check the laptop’s frame as well. If your laptop’s frame has sustained physical damage, the repair process for the screen might be more challenging.
2. Finding the correct screen
To find the correct screen for your laptop, you can type in your laptop’s model number (which you noted earlier) into online retailers’ search bars. This should provide you the correct screen that will fit your laptop. And although some sellers might use alternative identification methods for your laptop’s model, they usually provide all the necessary information in their listings. So in most cases, determining if the relevant screen is available is rather simple. However, examine your laptop’s specifications with the screen you want to buy, and make sure the video cable on the back of the screen matches what the dealer advertises online.
In terms of pricing, laptop displays tend to be relatively cheaper online, with some panels costing less than $100. However, the exact cost will vary depending on your laptop’s make and model.
3. Getting the right tools and opening the screen
After obtaining the correct screen for your laptop screen repair, it’s time to start the actual work. Note that this is not a comprehensive guide for all types of laptops, but it should provide a basic approach that works on most models.
Gathering the tools required
To properly install your new screen, you’ll need the following tools:
- A clean and flat work surface
- A putty knife or a similar tool for removing the screen bezel
- A magnetic screwdriver
- A pin or needle to carefully take off the bezel
- A small dish to hold screws
- Adhesive or tape for securing the new screen to the laptop frame
You can find screen repair kits available for certain models, so it’s a good idea to research your specific type of computer to check if these kits are an option. They provide all the necessary tools in advance, saving you from worrying about missing any essential items. Of course, you may simply use objects from your own home, which will work just as well and save you money.
After gathering the tools needed to replace the screen, you can begin the process. Place the closed laptop on a flat surface, keep your tools within reach, and follow the given procedure.
Disconnect power sources
Turn off your laptop and ensure it’s unplugged to avoid any risk of electric shock. Additionally, remove the battery to prevent any potential accidents. Next, find the stickers covering the screws on the screen bezel. There should be two such stickers, which will typically be located near the bottom of the screen.
Peel off stickers and loosen screws
Use a pin to gently remove the stickers from the bezel to prevent damage. You’ll need these stickers later once your new screen gets properly installed. Keep them sticky side up in a safe spot so you can reuse them during reassembly. Then, using your screwdriver, loosen and remove the screws that become visible. You might encounter some resistance depending on how tightly they were fastened during manufacturing. Place the screws in the dish to avoid losing them.
Remove the bezel
Take caution when removing the bezel from your old screen. You’ll need to reinstall it after replacing the screen. Use a putty knife or flat tool to gently pry the screen from the laptop case. It might require a bit of effort to detach it fully. If you’re having trouble removing the old screen, it might be because the bottom screws haven’t been loosened enough. Stop and loosen them further before attempting again. If the screen seems stuck on the hinges, gently wiggle it to free it from the case.
4. Removing the screen
Now to the most challenging task, which is removing the screen. To start, ensure that the bezel has been completely taken off and you can easily access the screen. The screen will be fixed to the laptop’s metal frame and you should detach it from its left and right sides. Next, you’ll encounter two additional screws at the upper corners of the screen. Loosen these screws to gently separate the screen from the metal frame. It’s possible that a few more screws on the sides are holding the screen securely. These screws should also be unscrewed, although alternatively, heavy-duty tape could also be used as a replacement.
With the attachments removed, your screen will now be resting on the keyboard. Here, it may be tricky to ensure there’s enough space between the screen and the metal frame. Be gentle to avoid damaging the video cable running behind the screen to the laptop’s body. If this cable gets damaged, you will most likely require professional help to fix it.
Next, gently disconnect the cable from the screen. Since adhesives might have been utilized to secure the cable to the screen, it’s crucial to exercise caution while detaching them. You might also need to remove some tape, but overall, disconnecting the screen from the video connector should be a relatively straightforward process. Once disconnected, place the screen away from your tools.
5. Installing the New Screen
While removing the old screen, take note of where the new screen will be placed. Gently position the new screen face down within the frame, ensuring a perfect fit. Next, reattach the video connector, placing it precisely where the previous screen was located. Align it as accurately as possible and secure it in place using tape or adhesive.
Reattach the Bezel
After completing the above steps, ensure that the sides are firmly in place. Reinsert the screws on the sides and top, or reapply any tape that was used for securing. Once everything is securely fastened, reattach the bezel. Then, align it carefully to snap it securely onto the screen case and ensure it won’t come loose easily.
Reinsert the remaining screws into the bezel only after you’re certain that everything is properly aligned and snapped into position. The screen’s edges should show no cracks at all. Once the screws are in place, reattach the screw covers using a pin or needle.
Power Up
Now, you’re all set to reboot your computer. Insert the battery, connect your laptop to a power source, and turn it on. If the display doesn’t work, recheck to ensure that you’ve reassembled all the components correctly.
6. Give yourself a Pat
If your laptop functions smoothly with the new screen, you have succeeded in your laptop screen repair task. And if you’re not a professional in electronics, you should be proud of yourself. Good Job!
