How to replace a cracked laptop screen

One of the most common repair jobs you’ll see at any laptop repair centre is a cracked screen. But the laptop screen isn’t so difficult for the average user to replace as you’d think. You just have to know what you’re doing.

You’ll notice that this article is called how to replace a cracked laptop screen. If your screen is physically intact, but flickering, displaying lines or blocks of colour, it’s not necessarily the screen that needs replacing, so we always advise having it seen by a certified professional to diagnose the issue. But if you’ve just trodden on it, this is the page for you.

Make sure there is no damage to other hardware:

First you need to establish that there’s no damage to any other parts of the laptop controlling the display. The best way to check is to plug an external monitor in. If your system works properly on the external monitor, then the problem is almost definitely with your screen, or you inverter (the unit that provides power to the built-in screen.)

To replace your screen, you’re going to need a screwdriver, and possibly a knife or a flat-head screwdriver. Some systems require a more specialist tool – check the type of screw first to make sure you have the right tool to hand.

Before you begin, power down the computer, and disconnect both the battery, and the mains power cable.

Locate and remove the bezel screws (the bezel is the plastic surround) – which may be hidden beneath rubber covers. If they are, gently prise away the covers using a knife or a flat-head screwdriver.

Remove the bezel screws, and put them together in a safe place such as an empty jar.

Removing the bezel should be easy enough by applying just a little pressure. It may snap away from a series of plastic clips, or you may need to push it to one side to allow it to slide free. Be careful, though. It’s usually plastic, and too much pressure in the wrong place will break it.

Be careful with the bezel, and to ensure all screws are removed

With the bezel removed, you’ll be able to see the whole display unit. It will probably yield to gentle pressure, but additional screws may need to be removed to pull it away from the laptop lid. Don’t pull too quickly as there are connectors at the back. Damage those, and you’re in much deeper than a replacement screen.

Gently tilt the screen towards you, and you’ll see the manufacturer’s part number on the back, You’ll need to write this down, and quote it when you order the replacement part.

To swap the faulty screen for the new, you simply unplug the ribbon connector and the power connector at the back, and connect the new screen.

Check that it’s all working by plugging in and switching on your laptop before replacing all the screws. Should you receive a faulty unit, this saves valuable time and unwanted stress.

It’s really straightforward on most laptops. However, as it’s such a delicate job we’d recommend you get a professional repair shop take care of it.

To discuss laptop screen repair with our engineers just give us a call or drop us an email.