Chapter 1: The Thrill of Repairing Laptops

Repairing devices is not only beneficial for the planet but also uplifting for the soul.

Recently, my son’s laptop keyboard gave out after just two years of heavy gaming. The WASD keys were particularly worn down. Initially, we took it back to Microcenter, where we purchased it, hoping to utilize their repair plan. However, they were overwhelmed with repair requests and informed us it would take two months for service.

Determined to fix it ourselves, I ordered a replacement keyboard online. Three Saturdays ago, we opened up the laptop and started the repair process. With nearly two decades of experience in laptop repairs, I felt comfortable tackling this challenge. My previous repairs have included keyboards, power supplies, RAM, and hard drives.

Through these hands-on experiences, I’ve gained insights into the current state of laptop repairs. Some models are designed for easy access and component replacement, like gaming laptops, which are spacious and modular for upgrades. Conversely, many recent models, such as newer MacBooks and iPads, are crafted for sleekness, making them incredibly difficult or even impossible to repair. This has been highlighted by Kyle Wiens and the iFixit team, who have been assessing the repairability of various devices for years.

Despite the challenges, I was confident that we could successfully repair my son's laptop.

The most significant lesson from my years of laptop repairs? It's an exhilarating experience.

Today’s electronics often follow a model of planned obsolescence. Manufacturers typically prefer that consumers discard malfunctioning devices rather than repair them, making it more challenging to fix issues. They often employ strategies like gluing components or withholding repair manuals and parts, leading to a culture of “learned helplessness” when issues arise. Thankfully, some companies like Dell take a more reasonable approach.

In this context, repairing a device feels like a small act of rebellion against the status quo. Moreover, fixing electronics is environmentally friendly. Globally, we generate over 48 million tons of electronic waste annually, with only 20% being recycled. The remainder often ends up in landfills, leaking harmful substances into the environment. By repairing devices ourselves, we contribute to reducing this toxic waste.

The most rewarding aspect of fixing electronics is the empowering feeling it brings. Initially, it can be daunting. During our recent keyboard replacement, we found it challenging to remove the keyboard, which required disassembling the entire laptop. Surrounded by numerous parts on our kitchen table, we felt a mix of intimidation and excitement: What if we made a mistake?

However, it also felt empowering: "We can do this!" Over the years, I have collected various tools from iFixit, including specialized screwdrivers and plastic spludgers, which not only make the process easier but also boost confidence when handling delicate components.

Repairing devices also teaches resilience. Things don’t always go smoothly, and improvisation is often necessary. During our repair, we faced challenges, such as reattaching a tiny wifi card that had stubborn connectors. We also accidentally broke a latch during disassembly. Instead of panicking, we assessed the situation and decided against using electrical tape, trusting our judgment that the remaining latch would hold.

In the end, our efforts paid off—the laptop was successfully reassembled and functional again. We prevented another piece of electronic waste from being created, extended the life of a device, and reinforced our sense of competence.

This experience is one I highly recommend. As I reflected on in an article for Wired nearly a decade ago, the journey of repair not only enhances the machine but also enriches ourselves.

This video, titled "FIXING your OLD Laptop could be better than buying a NEW one," explores the benefits of repairing laptops over purchasing new ones, shedding light on environmental and financial advantages.

The second video, "How To Fix or Troubleshoot a Laptop That Won't Turn On [#1]," provides practical tips for diagnosing and fixing common laptop issues, making it an essential watch for anyone looking to extend the life of their device.

Clive is a contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine, a columnist for Wired and Smithsonian magazines, and a regular contributor to Mother Jones. He’s the author of Coders: The Making of a New Tribe and the Remaking of the World, and Smarter Than You Think: How Technology is Changing our Minds for the Better. He’s @pomeranian99 on Twitter and Instagram.