How to replace a laptop screen step by step

After the various problems caused by the accumulation of dirt and those related to the hard disk, LCD screens are the components that give more problems in laptops. A cracked screen that does not allow you to see a movie correctly, for example, does not mean that your laptop is no longer useful and you have to throw it away. For most laptops, a screen replacement is inexpensive and takes no more than an hour at most.

With some basic knowledge, replacing a damaged laptop screen is an effective way to save money, since large numbers of laptop service locations charge a fee that sometimes suggests that it is better to buy another laptop. But this is not the case.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how you can replace the broken screen on your laptop without going to a technician or spending a lot of money. Wanting to know more? Do not miss our article on how to change the screen of your laptop.

Index of contents

Previous step to replace the laptop screen

As a first step, take a complete look at your laptop and check to make sure that the screen does indeed require a replacement.

In the event that the motherboard graphics card doesn't work, for example, you may be wasting time and effort replacing a screen that does. In addition, if the laptop has recently been dropped or has suffered any physical damage, it is also recommended that you check for other visible damage.

To guarantee the operation of the graphics card, you can connect a PC or television monitor to the laptop, since almost all have a standard blue VGA output (D-SUB) and / or an HDMI output.

If the image is displayed correctly, it is likely that your graphics card is in good condition and it is the screen that is causing the problem.

Otherwise, if no image is seen, be aware that some laptops require that you press certain function keys on the laptop to activate the external display output. If after that the video still doesn't show, your graphics card and / or motherboard is probably broken, instead of the screen.

If the laptop outputs to another screen is successful, use the laptop for several minutes to ensure that the keyboard and other components are working normally.

However, the general steps do not work for all of these laptops. Some will require more work or a different process to replace the screen, such as accessing the motherboard by opening the laptop's main case.

How to choose a replacement laptop screen

Before buying a new LCD screen, it may be a good idea to try removing the broken screen first, to make sure you can replace it.

If after following the first steps the process looks different for your laptop, it is recommended to search YouTube and Google, or go to a repair professional for further help on your exact brand and model of laptop.

Finding a replacement display is typically easy, and you won't have to pay the crazy prices the manufacturer generally wants. Just search an online store, such as Amazon or eBay, with the model number of your laptop.

You will find that most common displays don't cost that much money. If you can't find anything, try other identification numbers announced on the label or in the documentation of the laptop. Some providers have one or two different sets of identification numbers, which would be the model name.

When you're buying a screen, most vendors will alert you to compare the specs and how the cables from the current screen are connected to the laptop.

This is another reason for you to open the broken screen before ordering a replacement, as this will ensure exactly what screen you need.

However, if the seller claims that the display is compatible with your laptop model, it will generally work.

How to repair damaged laptop screen

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Before starting the replacement, make sure you have the right tools. This is what works for most laptops and thus correctly change the damaged screen:

• Table or other flat work area - You will need a place to sit (or stand if you prefer) with a flat area to work on your laptop Phillips Screwdriver - A medium screwdriver would suffice. If you don't have a magnetic screwdriver, try to get a magnet big enough to magnetize the driver's head. This helps the screws cling to the head making it much easier to remove and replace the screws as they often fall out everywhere Needle: This is to remove the cap stickers that hide the screws in the surrounding cover called a bezel. Plastic knife or other fine item: optional, to help separate the frame from the case. Sometimes nails can help. If you use another object, please make sure it is narrow enough but not sharp enough to leave scratches or other evidence on the surface of the laptop Small Container: This is to keep the small screws and keep them safe from curious kids and pets.

These general steps work for most laptops:

Check that the laptop is not connected to the AC adapter. Also remove the battery.

Find the round stickers that hide the screws in the screen frame. These stickers are usually found on the bottom of the bezel, near the display hinges, when you have the display open. You should find one on each side of the screen.

Use a sharp, pointed object, such as a pin, card, or needle, to help remove the stickers from the cover without damaging them. Put it between the edge of the cover and the bezel, and then remove the sticker. Once removed, put the stickers in a safe place, with the sticky side up to make sure there is enough adhesive when you put them back.

Use the screwdriver to remove the exposed screws. You will see that some screws are easily removed, while others require more work and patience. However, moving the display to the correct position often exposes the screws enough to remove them.

Carefully begin removing the bezel from the back of the display case. Place a fingernail or other thin item in the crack around the outside of the screen. The bezel is usually attached to the back case with plastic snaps, so use a little force to separate it, but not too much. You will hear the latches disengage with a little force.

After you have disengaged the display bezel, it may or may not be easy to remove. If it is not, it is probably stuck around the display hinges. By moving the screen position up or down, exerting a little gentle force if necessary, you should fully release it.

When the bezel is completely removed, you will find the LCD attached to a metal frame on the left and right sides. Remove the top two screws, one on each side, that hold the trim frame pieces to the rear display case. Now, you should be able to lift the LCD (with the frame parts attached) slightly away from the rear display case.

On each side of the frames, remove the screws that hold it to the LCD screen. Almost all of the notebooks have three screws on each side, however, on other computers the screen can be secured to the frame parts by adhesive tape on each side.

You should now be able to turn the LCD upside down on the keyboard. Be careful not to put excessive force on the video cable connected to the back of the LCD screen.

Disconnect the video cable from the back of the LCD screen. Most laptops have this connector located in the center. In this case, keep in mind that the part of the cable that runs across the screen is usually glued to the back with a bit of adhesive. Gently remove the cables from the screen. Generally, you should also remove the adhesive tape that secures the video connector to the back of the screen. When you get to the point of pulling the video cable out of the display connector, it should unplug with little force.

When you have completely removed the broken LCD, simply place the new one upside down as you did with the old one. Reconnect the video cable to the connector and route the cables and any tape like the old one.

Place the new screen up onto the side frame, and re-secure it as before: usually three screws on each side of the frame pieces, and then one screw on top of each to secure it to the rear screen case.

When you get to the point of putting the bezel back on, just line it up and push / tighten the bezel back into the snaps on the rear display case. Before replacing the bezel screws, make sure that the bezel is fully inserted into place and that there are no cracks around the edges of the display case. To finish off, use that pin or needle securely to replace the adhesive screw covers.

The screen of a laptop is one of the most likely components to fail. If the screen stops working, don't assume you'll have to dig through your pockets to buy a new laptop. Replacement screens can be purchased for most models, and exchanging the failed screen is generally a much cheaper option than buying new equipment. As we have seen, you can replace the screen of a laptop at home with some basic tools.

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If all went well, you should now have a shiny new laptop screen. Replace the battery and test it!