How to Replace a Laptop Battery, Screen, Keyboard or Charger in South Africa

Fix the part, keep the laptop

A failing battery, a cracked screen, a sticky keyboard or a dead charger does not mean the end of your laptop. In most cases it is a cheaper fix than buying a new machine, and many repairs take less than an hour with basic tools.

This guide shows you how to identify the right part, what to check before you buy, and how to fit each of the four most common replacements. Everything mentioned is available in our laptop replacement parts range.

Step one: identify your exact laptop

The single most common mistake is ordering a part that almost fits. Laptops of the same name can use different parts, so work from exact numbers instead of guesses.

• Find the model and part number. Look on the sticker under the laptop. It usually lists a model name (for example a Latitude, ThinkPad or Pavilion model) and a product or part number.
• Match the part itself. The safest route is to read the number on the old battery, screen or keyboard, because that number identifies the exact part you need.
• Take photos. Photograph the old part, its connectors and where the screws go before you remove anything.
• Ask us if unsure. Send us your laptop model or a photo of the label via the chat on our site or our contact page, and we will help you find the matching part, including hard-to-find items.

Tools and safety basics

You do not need a workshop. For most repairs you need:

• A small set of precision screwdrivers (Phillips and sometimes Torx).
• A plastic pry tool or old bank card to open clips.
• A small tray or magnetic mat to keep screws organised.
• A clean, well-lit, hard surface. Avoid carpet because it builds static.

Safety rules that apply to every repair:

1. Shut the laptop down fully, do not just close the lid.
2. Unplug the charger.
3. Remove the battery if it is removable, or disconnect the internal battery connector as soon as you open the case.
4. Touch a bare metal surface before handling components to discharge static.
5. Never bend, puncture or force a battery. A damaged lithium battery can overheat.

How to replace a laptop battery

A battery is the most common repair and the one most worth doing in South Africa, because your battery is your power-cut backup.

How to tell if your battery needs replacing

Signs include the laptop shutting down at 30 or 40 percent, runtime that has collapsed, a swollen case or trackpad lifting, or a Windows warning to replace the battery. To check its condition, open Command Prompt and type powercfg /batteryreport. Windows creates a report showing design capacity and full-charge capacity. If the full-charge number is far below the design capacity, the battery is worn.

Fitting the new battery

1. Check the part number on the old battery against the one you are buying.
2. Shut down and unplug.
3. Removable battery: slide the latches and lift it out. Internal battery: remove the base cover, disconnect the battery cable, then unscrew the battery.
4. Fit the new battery, reconnect the cable and refit the cover.
5. Charge it fully the first time and use it normally.

Browse our laptop batteries to find a match.

How to replace a laptop screen

Screens are the second most common repair, and they are more straightforward than most people expect.

Find the right panel

A screen must match on several points:

• Size and resolution. For example 15.6 inch, 1920 x 1080.
• Connector. Common types are 30-pin and 40-pin, and the position of the connector on the panel matters.
• Panel type. IPS or TN, and the refresh rate.
• Part number. Printed on a label on the back of the panel. Lift the screen bezel to read it.

As an example, one of our listings is a 15.6 inch FHD IPS replacement screen with a 40-pin connector. Details like these tell you whether a panel fits your laptop.

Fitting the new screen

1. Shut down, unplug and disconnect the battery.
2. Gently pry off the screen bezel, working around the edges.
3. Unscrew the panel and lay it face down on the keyboard deck.
4. Peel back the tape and disconnect the display cable.
5. Connect the new panel, test it by briefly powering on before closing everything up, then reassemble.

See all laptop screens in our range.

How to replace a laptop keyboard

A keyboard replacement is a good fix for spills, dead keys or worn lettering.

• Confirm the layout (for example US or UK) and the model it fits.
• Some keyboards pop out after a few screws and a ribbon cable. Others are built into the top case and are harder to replace, so check how yours is fitted before ordering.
• Disconnect the ribbon cable gently by flipping its small latch. Do not pull on the cable itself.

Browse laptop keyboards for your model.

How to choose a replacement laptop charger

A charger is the easiest part to replace and the easiest to get wrong. Match these details:

• Voltage (V) and wattage (W) printed on the old charger. Use the same voltage and equal or higher wattage.
• Connector type and size. Barrel tips come in different diameters, and some laptops use USB-C.
• Quality. A poor-quality charger can damage the battery or run hot. Buy from a seller who tests their stock.

Find the right one in our laptop chargers collection.

Refurbished parts: a smart way to save

For older or discontinued models, new parts can be hard to find or expensive. Our refurb parts range offers tested second-hand components that keep older laptops running without paying full price.

When to see a technician instead

Some jobs are best left to a professional:

• Water damage that has reached the motherboard.
• Swollen batteries that have damaged the case.
• Soldered components such as charging ports on the board.
• Anything you do not feel confident fitting.

There is no shame in asking for help. A careful fix is cheaper than a mistake.

Is it worth repairing, or should you replace the laptop?

A rule of thumb: if the repair costs less than a third of what a similar laptop would cost and the laptop otherwise runs well, repair it. If the laptop is very old, slow and has several faults, you may be better off upgrading. Our refurbished laptops are a good middle ground, and our buying guide explains what to look for. If you are weighing it up, see refurbished vs new laptops. To keep working during outages while your laptop is being fixed, read how to keep your laptop working during power cuts.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a laptop battery last?

Most laptop batteries start losing noticeable capacity after two to three years of regular use, depending on how often they are charged and how hot the laptop runs.

Can I replace a laptop screen myself?

Yes, if you match the part number, connector and size, and take your time. Most people can do it in under an hour.

Will any charger work with my laptop?

No. Match the voltage, connector and a wattage equal to or above the original.

Where can I buy laptop parts in South Africa?

You can order batteries, screens, keyboards and chargers from our laptop replacement parts section, delivered nationwide.

Need help finding a part?

Cannot find the part for your laptop? Use the chat on our site. Our team will help you source it.