Framework Laptop 16" SSD Replacement

Written By: Alex Diaz-Kokaisl

Comments: 1

Difficulty

Easy

Steps

Time Required

10 - 15 minutes

Introduction

Use this guide to replace the SSD, or the storage, in your Framework 16" laptop.

The Framework 16" laptop supports two SSD slots: one "primary" M.2 2280 card and one "secondary" M.2 2230 card. The primary card sits on top of the secondary card, so you can use this guide to replace both cards.

Note: the laptop used in this guide is a generic setup of one US keyboard, one numpad module, and two touchpad spacers. Your setup might vary, but the procedure should remain the same.

Tools

T5 Torx Screwdriver

Step 1

Unplug all cables and fully shut down your laptop.
If your repair requires a spudger, a T5 Torx, or a Phillips screwdriver, you can use the included Framework screwdriver. Whichever works best for you!
Framework recommends that you put your laptop into battery disconnect mode in the BIOS whenever removing the battery. Read how to do that here.
To disable this mode, click here.

Step 2

Use your fingernail to pull out the two Input Module latches and unlock them.
The latch will show red if it's unlocked.

Step 3

Use your fingers to slide the touchpad spacer toward the bottom edge of the laptop and unclip it.
If you're having trouble, check if the corresponding Input Module latch is properly unlocked.
Lift the touchpad spacer off the laptop and remove it.

Step 4

Repeat the same procedure for the other touchpad spacer.

Step 5

Use your fingers to slide the touchpad toward the bottom edge of the laptop and disconnect it.
If you're having trouble, check if the Input Module latches are properly unlocked.
Lift the touchpad and remove it.
During reassembly, perform the following:
Place the touchpad flat on its cutout so its clips are properly aligned.
Press the touchpad down and slide it into place so it lines up evenly with the bottom edge of the laptop.

Step 6

The keyboard is held in place with strong magnets. Apply gradually increasing force to avoid having the keyboard violently eject.
Grip the two pull tabs along the bottom of the keyboard.
Lift the pull tabs until the keyboard magnets release.
Remove the keyboard.
During reassembly, make sure the keyboard is seated properly on its alignment pegs and sits evenly with the edges of the laptop.

Step 7

The numpad is held in place with strong magnets. Apply gradually increasing force to avoid having the numpad violently eject.
Grip the pull tab at the bottom of the numpad.
Lift the pull tab until the numpad magnets release.
Remove the numpad.
During reassembly, make sure the numpad is seated properly on its alignment pegs and sits flush with the edges of the laptop.

Step 8

Grip the black pull tab on the midframe cable press connector.
Lift up to disconnect the midframe cable.

Step 9

The midframe screws are ordered from 2–17 (number 1 is the press connector). You don't have to follow the order, but you can use it to help keep track of the screws you've loosened.
Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to loosen the 16 captive screws securing the midframe.
During reassembly, follow the order (starting with 2) to reinstall the screws across the midframe evenly.

Step 10

Use your fingernail to lift the bottom edge of the midframe enough to grip it with your fingers.

Step 11

Lift the midframe off the laptop and remove it.
During reassembly, make sure the midframe sits evenly on its alignment pegs before tightening the screws.

Step 12

Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to loosen the three captive screws securing the battery.

Step 13

Grip the black pull tab at the top of the battery.
Lift the pull tab to disconnect the battery connector.
Remove the battery.

Step 14

Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to remove the 2 mm‑long screw securing the SSD.
The SSD might pop up at a shallow angle when you remove the screw.

Step 15

Grip the end of the SSD with the screw hole and slide it out of its socket.
Remove the SSD.
If you're installing a secondary M.2 2230 SSD, remove the 2 mm‑long screw next to the gray thermal pad and follow the same removal procedure.
During reassembly, insert the SSD at a shallow angle into its socket, and hold it flat to the laptop while you reinsert its screw.

Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

Take your e-waste to an R2 or e-Stewards certified recycler.

Repair didn’t go as planned? Try some basic troubleshooting, or ask our Answers Community for help.

Author

Alex Diaz-Kokaisl

Member since: 16/01/22

117889 Reputation

One comment

Why is battery removal necessary? If machine is powered off or better yet, has internal battery disconnected via bios, this seems like an unnecessary step?

Jacob C. -