Broken Laptop: What To Do If You Have One

When you’re dealing with a broken laptop, you may want to assess the damage and weigh your options before deciding whether or not you wish to attempt repairing problem components, or just purchase a new laptop. If you know what is wrong, and are familiar with pc repair, you might wish to try some “Do it yourself” repair.

If you can’t do it yourself, you may want to check your warranty to see if you still have time to send it in for repair. Some places offer money back guarantees, or "no lemon" policies that require them to repair or replace a broken laptop within a set amount of time after it has been purchased. If you bought an extended warranty, you may be able to get your laptop repaired, replaced, or even exchanged free of charge.

But you may want to consider just purchasing a new system all together. Laptop prices have gotten much lower over the last few years. A newer and faster model may be available at the same price that you originally paid for the model that is broken, or less. It's also a good idea to purchase a new laptop if you are not covered by warranty, and the cost of repairs will be over 50% of your computer's current value.

To help you decide, you may want to ask yourself the following questions:

Is it covered by Warranty or Guarantee?

Read the fine print. Some policies will only cover manufacturer defect. Others will cover just about anything. Make sure you also check with the store where you made your purchase to see what their exchange and repair policies are. You may be able to have your computer up and running or exchange it for a new one without spending a penny!

Did I Purchase an Extended Warranty?

With laptop prices being so low, adding an extended warranty is really only necessary if you are buying an expensive model. Most manufacturer warranties will cover system defects and upgrades. Some electronics stores offer system and performance guarantees as well. So before adding the extra money, make sure you're needs are not already covered.

Is Repair Worth My Time and Money?

If you’re not an expert at repairing a broken laptop, it’s probably not worth all of the time and effort it will take to figure out what is wrong, find compatible parts, and fumble through online service manuals to repair the problem. If you know your way around the insides of a laptop, you will just have to weigh the value of how much time it will take to solder a bad connection, replace a damaged part, or clean the sticky soda residue out of the keyboard.

There is always the option of hiring a professional for the cost of parts and labor. If that is what you choose to do, you will definitely want to consider going with the purchase of a new laptop when higher priced components like the mother board or the LCD screen get damaged. Chances are you will be spending close to the same amount of money either way you go.

Am I Sure I Can Fix My Broken Laptop?

If there is any question as to whether or not you can handle the job, just don’t do it. Hire a professional, or buy a new laptop. There is nothing worse than spending time and money on parts and labor only to find out that you accidentally got the wrong part, or didn’t fix it right.

Do I Want to Keep My Older Model?

You may also want to consider whether or not your laptop will continue to fit your needs. Hanging on to an older model may cause difficulty as new software comes out that requires more RAM or a higher processor speed. You will need to consider what you use your laptop for, and whether or not you will need to upgrade to a newer model or even a free laptop in the near future.

Many people are turning to Notebook (or Netbook) computers instead of laptops because they are affordable, lightweight, and offer better portability. Since they only cost between $200 and $400 one of these small laptops may be a good alternative to buying a new laptop or repairing your broken one.