Hey everyone! So I have an HP Pavilion laptop (model number: 691L0UA) that I've been using for about two years. Recently, I tried to charge my bug zapper racket using my laptop's USB port while it was plugged in and charging. After about 15 minutes, my laptop just shut down completely and now it won't respond to the charger at all—no lights, nothing. I took it to Best Buy, and they attempted some troubleshooting but ended up saying the motherboard might be dead. They recommended against repairing it since the costs would exceed the laptop's value. I found a replacement motherboard online for around $160. Do you think it's worth fixing, or should I just cut my losses and buy a new laptop?
5 Answers
It’s unlikely that the USB bug zapper really harmed your laptop, so check that charger cable first to see if it's the real issue. I think that there’s a high chance that the motherboard might not even be dead. Before deciding to invest in a new motherboard, make sure everything has been thoroughly checked.
Did Best Buy try the right steps? They should’ve unplugged the charger, removed the battery, and held the power button for about 30 seconds before putting the battery back in. That’s a trick that sometimes works. If that doesn't help, see if it powers on with just the AC adapter connected. If the LED on the adapter lights up and then turns off when connected to your laptop, it could indicate a motherboard issue. But if the light stays on, let it charge overnight.
A fried motherboard could mean a tougher road ahead. In the end, you might end up replacing multiple parts bit by bit, which can be annoying. If nothing's working, I’d recommend moving on and getting a new device instead.
Honestly, whether to fix it or not is a tough call. If the total repair costs (labor + part) come close to the price of a new laptop, I'd say replace it instead. But if you're set on fixing it, just make sure you get the exact same motherboard—you don't want to run into compatibility issues because manufacturers sometimes change components during production. Also, check if the shop will install a part you provided, as some won't due to liability concerns.
You really need to assess if your laptop is worth investing $160 into. If you're fond of it or you think it has some good life left, go for it! But if you're unsure, maybe consider selling it for parts and putting that money towards a new laptop.
Related Questions
Lenovo Thinkpad Stuck In Update Loop Install FilterDriverU2_Reload