My PC stopped booting properly after waking from sleep. The fans turn on, but it never completes POST. The system uses an AMD Ryzen 5 7600X and a B850I Lightning motherboard. A repair shop told me that my CPU failed to POST in both my motherboard and their test board, while their test CPU worked in my motherboard. The CPU is about 18 months old and was purchased through AliExpress, so it may not have the same warranty coverage as my other components.
The shop also claimed the motherboard had been installed with the wrong screws and that they reinstalled it using different screws and washers. I built the system myself and used the screws supplied with the motherboard. They additionally said part of a USB plug was stuck in one of the ports, but none of my USB cables are missing their connectors.
They charged me $132 AUD but were unwilling to provide a quote for a replacement CPU, suggesting I visit another local computer store instead. I do not want to buy a new CPU only to discover that the motherboard or another component is actually faulty. The motherboard and most of the other parts are still under warranty. What would be the safest way to confirm which component has failed?
5 Answers
Since the CPU came from an overseas marketplace, warranty support may be difficult, so replacing it locally can be more practical if the price and return policy are reasonable. However, do not treat the shop's diagnosis as conclusive just because they tested it once. Make sure the replacement can be returned if the motherboard turns out to be the actual problem.
Motherboard mounting screws normally do not require extra washers. The screws, standoffs, case, and power supply provide the grounding path, assuming the standoffs are positioned correctly. Using the supplied screws is generally fine, so the shop should be able to explain exactly what was supposedly wrong and show you any damage or incorrect standoff placement.
The claims about the screws and a piece of a USB connector being stuck sound unusual, especially if you can inspect the ports and do not find any broken plug. Ask the shop for a written explanation of what they changed, the test results for each CPU and board, and any photos of the alleged USB obstruction or mounting issue. That information will make it easier to challenge the charge or get a second opinion.
The most reliable next step is to have the CPU and motherboard tested by a second repair shop, ideally one that will clearly document the test results. Without spare compatible parts, it is difficult to prove which component is faulty. If you buy a replacement CPU locally and the original turns out to be fine, you may be able to return or resell it, but confirm the store's return policy first.
The motherboard is still under warranty, so I may have it replaced if testing with another CPU points to a board problem.
A CPU fault is possible, but so are bent or damaged socket pins, poor CPU contact, corrupted firmware, or a motherboard failure. Since the computer worked before entering sleep mode, a completely dead CPU is not the only explanation. Clear the CMOS, reseat the RAM and CPU, inspect the socket carefully, and try booting with only the essential components connected. If the board has no diagnostic LEDs, a second test system is especially valuable.
I already tried as much basic troubleshooting as I could, but I do not have another compatible board available. If a new CPU does not solve it, I will pursue the motherboard warranty through the original retailer.
That was what seemed strange to me too. I have built PCs before, and the explanation did not make much sense. I am concerned they may have been looking for something billable rather than identifying the real fault.