How to Fix a Broken Laptop Hinge

Tools & Parts Needed

1

Power Off and Remove the Battery

Power off, unplug from the charger, and remove the battery if accessible from outside.
2

Remove Bottom Panel Screws

Remove all screws from the bottom panel, noting lengths — use a diagram or photo to track them.
3

Pry Open the Laptop Casing

Use a plastic spudger to gently separate the bottom panel from the chassis, starting at a corner.
4

Hinges mount through the keyboard deck, not the bottom panel — budget for a near-full disassembly even if the visible damage looks small.

Locate the Broken Hinge

Trace the display cable to the hinge area. The broken hinge may have cracked plastic mounts.
5

Remove Hinge Screws

Unscrew the hinge screws from both the display lid and the chassis base.
6

Detach the Broken Hinge

Slide or lift the hinge away from its mount points — the display bezel may need to be partially removed.
7

Attach the New Hinge

Position the replacement hinge in the mount points and drive the screws finger-tight first.
8

Tighten All Screws

Tighten the hinge screws fully — they must be firm but not stripped.
9

Reassemble and Test

Reassemble the casing, reinsert the battery, power on, and test the hinge movement through full range.

This repair varies significantly by laptop model — find a model-specific guide before starting.

Breaking the display cable during this repair is common — work slowly around cable routing.

Never force the hinge past its natural range of motion during testing.