Introduction

The ThinkPad P51s can be configured with a 2.5-inch SATA solid-state drive. This guide covers the replacement of the 2.5-inch SATA SSD, which is installed inside a removable caddy. Over time, an aging or failing SATA drive can cause slow boot times, operating system crashes, corrupted data, or the laptop failing to detect the storage device. Many users also upgrade the SSD to increase capacity or improve speed after years of business use.

Before beginning this repair, completely power off the laptop, disconnect the AC adapter, and remove the external battery to prevent power from reaching the motherboard. The SATA drive slides out from the side of the bay once the locking latch is released, so be sure to pull the caddy straight outward to avoid damaging the connector. Handle the new SSD carefully and avoid touching the SATA pins.

This guide will walk you step-by-step through removing the SATA caddy, swapping in the replacement drive, and reinstalling it into the laptop.

What you need

Step 1 SSD

Lenovo ThinkPad P51s SSD Replacement, SSD: step 1, image 1 of 2

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Flip the laptop so the bottom is facing up.
Place it on a soft cloth so you don’t scratch the lid.

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Step 2

Lenovo ThinkPad P51s SSD Replacement: step 2, image 3 of 3

Slide both locking latches outward using your thumbs.
Keep the right latch held in the unlocked position with your right thumb. With your left hand, push the battery out of the slot.
Once it detaches, use both hands to slide the battery out.

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Step 3

Use a Phillips #00 screwdriver to loosen all seven captive screws that secure the lower case.
Do not try to remove the captive screws. They should remain in the bottom case.

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Step 4

Lenovo ThinkPad P51s SSD Replacement: step 4, image 3 of 3

Insert a iFixit Opening Tool into the gap along one edge of the laptop.
Gently slide it around the perimeter to release the clips.
Work slowly and avoid twisting the tool to prevent cracking the cover or bending the frame.
Once all the clips are released, lift the cover off.
Metal tools can crack the plastic clips—use only plastic prying tools

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Step 5

The SSD is located next to the internal battery.

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Step 6

Lenovo ThinkPad P51s SSD Replacement: step 6, image 3 of 3

Press the plastic pull-tab inward toward the drive to release the locking mechanism.
Pull the tab outwards to slide the SSD and its caddy out.
Disconnect the SATA cable by pulling it straight out from the connector.
Do not pull on the cable wires themselves. Only pull from the connector to avoid damage.