Unscrew Stripped Laptop Screw: 5 DIY Methods

So, your trusty laptop has betrayed you, huh? That tiny screw, the gatekeeper to upgrades or repairs, is now just a frustrating, stripped circle. We’ve all been there, wrestling with a stubborn screw, probably after watching a Linus Tech Tips video and feeling overly confident. The good news is, you don’t need a professional from iFixit just yet. This article will provide 5 easy DIY methods on how to unscrew a stripped screw laptop, rescuing you from this common tech headache, usually caused by using the wrong Philips head screwdriver.

Rescue Your Laptop: A Guide to Removing Stripped Screws

Stripped screws. Ugh. Just the phrase sends shivers down the spine of anyone who’s ever dared to crack open a laptop. That little rounded-out head staring back at you is a frustrating roadblock, but don’t panic! Before you resign yourself to a costly repair, know that you have options. This guide will walk you through 5 DIY methods to tackle that stripped screw head-on. We’ll focus on "how to unscrew a stripped screw laptop" using household items and simple techniques. Remember, patience is key. Don’t force anything; slow and steady wins the race.

Laying the Groundwork: Preparation is Key

Before diving into the methods, let’s get you prepared. The right tools and a calm approach can significantly increase your chances of success.

• Assess the Damage: How badly stripped is the screw? A slightly worn screw might respond to a gentle approach, while a completely obliterated head will require more aggressive tactics.
• Gather Your Arsenal: Collect the tools you think you might need based on the methods below. Have everything ready and within reach.
• Work Surface Protection: Lay down a soft cloth or mat to protect your laptop casing from scratches.
• Lighting: Ensure you have adequate lighting to see what you’re doing. A well-lit workspace is crucial.
• The Right Screwdriver: Make sure you are using a screwdriver that fits properly. Use the correct screwdriver for your specific laptop screw type, or it will only make the problem worse.

Method 1: The Rubber Band Trick

This is often the first method people try, and for good reason: it’s simple and often effective for moderately stripped screws.

1. Grab a Rubber Band: A wide, flat rubber band works best. Something like a rubber band you’d use for holding money together.
2. Place it Over the Screw: Position the rubber band over the stripped screw head, ensuring it fills the gap.
3. Apply Pressure: Insert your screwdriver into the screw head, pressing firmly down onto the rubber band.
4. Turn Slowly: Apply steady pressure and turn the screwdriver slowly. The rubber band helps the screwdriver grip the screw head.

If it works, you’ll feel the screw start to turn. If not, move on to the next method.

Method 2: The Precision Pen Trick

1. Remove the Ink Cartridge: Disassemble the pen and discard the ink cartridge.
2. Clean and Cut the Pen: Cut a slot using a sharp blade. The slot should be perpendicular to the length of the pen.
3. Align the Slot: Place the slot on top of the stripped screw.
4. Heat and cool: Melt the plastic pen with a lighter or burner. Be careful not to burn the laptop’s plastic body. When the plastic fills the stripped screw, cool it off with a blow dryer or ice.
5. Unscrew: Use the pen as a handle to slowly and delicately unscrew the stripped screw.

Method 3: The Aluminum Foil Shim

Similar to the rubber band, aluminum foil can provide extra grip.

1. Fold a Small Piece: Cut a small square of aluminum foil and fold it over several times to create a small, dense shim.
2. Place it on the Screw: Position the foil on the stripped screw head.
3. Insert Screwdriver: Insert your screwdriver and apply downward pressure.
4. Turn: Attempt to unscrew slowly and steadily.

Method 4: Using a Screw Extraction Pliers

This requires a specialized tool, but it’s incredibly effective for stubborn screws.

1. Choose the Right Size: Select a screw extraction plier that securely grips the head of the stripped screw.
2. Grip Firmly: Position the plier and grip the screw head tightly.
3. Turn Slowly: Rotate the plier counter-clockwise to unscrew the screw.

Method 5: The Super Glue Method

Use with Caution! This method is more aggressive and carries the risk of damaging your laptop if not done carefully.

1. Apply a Tiny Amount: Place a very small drop of super glue onto the tip of an old screwdriver (one you don’t mind sacrificing).
2. Attach to Screw: Carefully position the screwdriver onto the stripped screw head and hold it firmly in place until the glue sets. This might take several minutes.
3. Turn Slowly: Once the glue is completely dry, attempt to turn the screwdriver slowly and carefully.

Important Note: If the glue seeps onto the laptop casing, immediately use acetone to remove it. Avoid getting acetone on any plastic components.

Troubleshooting Table

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Screwdriver Keeps Slipping	Not enough grip, Wrong size screwdriver	Try a different method (rubber band, foil), ensure you’re using the correct screwdriver size and type
Screw Head is Completely Rounded Out	Severely stripped	Screw extraction pliers or the super glue method
Screw Won’t Budge	Screw is seized/rusted	Apply a penetrating oil (WD-40) and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove again.
Damage to Laptop Casing	Excessive force, Slipping tools	Be more careful, use proper tools, protect your work surface.

With patience and the right approach, you can conquer that stripped screw and get your laptop back in working order. Good luck!

So, there you have it! Hopefully, one of these DIY methods helps you finally unscrew a stripped screw laptop and get back to fixing (or upgrading!) your machine. Don’t get discouraged if the first method doesn’t work; just try another. Good luck, and happy fixing!