Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement

Introduction

This guide will demonstrate how to remove and replace the Solid State Drive (SSD) in your Dell XPS 13 9305. Use this guide if you're upgrading your SSD, replacing an existing SSD, or transferring an SSD from another computer.

Note that the SSD shield is only required for 30 mm-long (M.2 2230) SSDs. If you install an 80 mm-long full size (M.2 2280) SSD, do not install the shield. This will be described again in the relevant step below.

Before you perform this repair, back up your existing SSD if possible. If you’re replacing the SSD where your operating system is installed, familiarize yourself with a disk cloning utility so you’ll be ready to migrate your data to the new SSD.

What you need

Step 1 Remove the back screws

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Remove the back screws: step 1, image 1 of 2

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Remove the back screws: step 1, image 2 of 2

For your safety, discharge the battery below 25% and power down your device before disassembly.
Use a Torx T5 screwdriver to remove the eight 3.2 mm-long screws.

Edit

Step 2 Release the clips

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Release the clips: step 2, image 1 of 2

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Release the clips: step 2, image 2 of 2

At each corner, insert an opening pick between the back cover and the device body.
Pry upward to release the retaining clips. Listen for a loud click when each clip releases.

Edit

Step 3 Remove the back cover

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Remove the back cover: step 3, image 1 of 3

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Remove the back cover: step 3, image 2 of 3

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Remove the back cover: step 3, image 3 of 3

The edges of the cover are very sharp. Use caution when handling this panel.
Lift the front edge of the cover away from you.
Some clips may release during this step. If the cover is stuck, move it side to side to help release additional clips.
Remove the back cover from the laptop.

Edit

Step 4 Disconnect the battery cable

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Disconnect the battery cable: step 4, image 1 of 3

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Disconnect the battery cable: step 4, image 2 of 3

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Disconnect the battery cable: step 4, image 3 of 3

Push the battery connector out of its socket using the pointed end of a spudger.
Push the small tabs on the side of the connector to avoid damaging the cables.

Edit

Step 5 Remove the screw from the SSD cover

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Remove the screw from the SSD cover: step 5, image 1 of 2

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Remove the screw from the SSD cover: step 5, image 2 of 2

Use a Phillips #1 screwdriver to remove the 3.7 mm-long screw from the SSD cover.
This cover won't be used if an 80 mm-long full-size SSD is installed.

Edit

Step 6 Pull the SSD cover off

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Pull the SSD cover off: step 6, image 1 of 3

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Pull the SSD cover off: step 6, image 2 of 3

Dell XPS 13 9305 SSD Replacement, Pull the SSD cover off: step 6, image 3 of 3

Pull the cover off and away from the silver retaining peg.
During reassembly, don't install this cover if you're upgrading to a full-size SSD. The cover is needed only for 30 mm-long (M.2 2230) SSDs.

Edit