Lenovo IdeaPad 3-1481W000NGUS SSD Replacement

Introduction

Welcome to this guide on how to replace the internal M.2 SSD inside your Lenovo Ideapad 3-1481W000NGUS.

If you are experiencing issues with your computer not turning on, running out of storage space, or simply just want to upgrade your SSD, this guide will explain step by step how to carry out a replacement.

Before attempting an SSD replacement, make sure that your laptop is completely shut down and unplugged from its power source. The steps listed below will outline how to remove the SSD from your laptop. In order to install a new SSD, follow the steps in reverse order.

What you need

Step 1 Back Cover

Lenovo IdeaPad 3-1481W000NGUS SSD Replacement, Back Cover: step 1, image 1 of 3

Lenovo IdeaPad 3-1481W000NGUS SSD Replacement, Back Cover: step 1, image 2 of 3

Lenovo IdeaPad 3-1481W000NGUS SSD Replacement, Back Cover: step 1, image 3 of 3

Tool used on this step:

Magnetic Project Mat

$19.95

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Orient the laptop so that the bottom is facing up.
Remove the six 7 mm screws using a Phillips #00 screwdriver.
Remove the four 4 mm screws using a Phillips #00 screwdriver.
Throughout this repair, keep track of each screw and make sure it goes back exactly where it came from.

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Step 2

Lenovo IdeaPad 3-1481W000NGUS SSD Replacement: step 2, image 3 of 3

Pry up the sides of the back case using the iFixit opening tool. Then, lift to remove.
You may hear snapping when removing the panel. This is normal!

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Step 3 SSD

Lenovo IdeaPad 3-1481W000NGUS SSD Replacement, SSD: step 3, image 1 of 3

Lenovo IdeaPad 3-1481W000NGUS SSD Replacement, SSD: step 3, image 2 of 3

Lenovo IdeaPad 3-1481W000NGUS SSD Replacement, SSD: step 3, image 3 of 3

Gently peel away the blue thermal pad, revealing the SSD underneath.
Do not set the sticky bottom side of the thermal pad on any surface.

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Step 4

Remove the 4 mm screw keeping the SSD in place using a Phillips #00 screwdriver.

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Step 5

Pull the SSD out straight, without applying any vertical pressure.
When removing, do not pull the SSD upwards. This may damage the motherboard slot and hard drive.

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