Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15" Disassembly Guide: How to Replace SSD, RAM, LCD, Battery & Fix Motherboard Issues
Jun 15, 2025
1. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15" Pre-Disassembly: Maximize Resale Value
1. Pre-Tear Down Valuation
- Check Current Market Prices:
- Component-Specific Values:
- 8GB DDR4 RAM: $25-$40
- 256GB SSD: $30-$50
- Original battery: $45-$75
2. Resale Documentation
- Photographic Evidence:
- Take timestamped photos of serial numbers
- Document existing wear/tear
- Performance Records:
- Run UserBenchmark tests
- Capture battery health (F2 at startup)
3. Essential Tools
| Tool | Purpose | Resale Impact |
|---|---|---|
| PH00 Screwdriver | Case screws | Prevents stripping (preserves value) |
| Plastic Spudger | Clip release | Avoids case damage (+15% value) |
| Anti-Static Mat | Component safety | Ensures working parts |
4. Warranty & Resale Legality
- Verify Lenovo Warranty Status
- Check FTC Right-to-Repair compliance
- Prepare original purchase receipt
2. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15" Bottom Case Removal: Safe Access for Resale Prep
1. Screw Removal Protocol
- Locate All Fasteners:
- 10 total screws (7 short, 3 long near hinges)
- Use magnetic mat to organize
- Proper Technique:
- PH00 screwdriver with 0.6 Nm torque
- Apply firm downward pressure to prevent stripping
2. Hidden Clip Locations
| Area | Release Method | Tool |
|---|---|---|
| Front Edge | Insert at 25° angle near touchpad | 0.5mm plastic spudger |
| Side Vents | Slide horizontally toward display | iFixit opening picks |
3. Safe Case Separation
- Initial Break:
- Start near hinge area (weakest clips)
- Use suction cup for grip
- Full Removal:
- Maintain 30° angle during lift
- Watch for fingerprint cable (right side)
4. Preserving Resale Value
- No-Scratch Guarantee:
- Use only plastic tools (metal leaves marks)
- Damaged cases lose 20-30% value
- Reassembly Readiness:
- Store screws in labeled compartments
- Note clip locations for perfect reattachment
Common Issues & Solutions
| Problem | Solution | Resale Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Stuck clip | Apply 99% isopropyl with brush | Prevents case warping |
| Stripped screw | Use rubber band for grip | Avoids service marks |
3. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15" RAM Removal & Current Market Valuation
RAM Specifications
| Model | Type | Speed | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Configuration | DDR4 SODIMM | 3200MHz | 8GB (4GB soldered + 4GB slot) |
| Upgrade Potential | DDR4 SODIMM | 3200MHz | 12GB max (4GB soldered + 8GB slot) |
Safe RAM Removal Process
- Access RAM Slot:
- Locate near center of motherboard
- Remove any thermal shielding
- Release Module:
- Push outward on both retention clips
- Module will pop up at 30° angle
- Extract Module:
- Pull straight out from slot
- Hold by edges only
Current Resale Values
- 4GB DDR4-3200:
- Used: $12-$18
- Tested/Guaranteed: $20-$25
- 8GB DDR4-3200:
- Used: $25-$35
- New in packaging: $40-$50
Maximizing Resale Value
- Cleaning:
- Use isopropyl alcohol on contacts
- Remove all dust from heat spreaders
- Documentation:
- Photograph part numbers
- Include MemTest86 results
- Packaging:
- Use anti-static bags
- Include original stickers if available
Buyer Compatibility Notes
- Works with most 2020+ Lenovo models
- Ideal for Ideapad 3/5, ThinkPad E series
- Not compatible with Legion gaming series
4. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15" SSD Replacement & Current Market Value
SSD Specifications
| Model | Interface | Form Factor | Capacity Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Configuration | PCIe Gen3 x4 | M.2 2280 | 256GB/512GB |
| Upgrade Potential | PCIe Gen3 x4 | M.2 2280 | Up to 2TB |
SSD Replacement Process
- Locate SSD Slot:
- Positioned near right hinge
- Under metal shielding plate
- Remove Existing SSD:
- Unscrew mounting screw (M2x3mm)
- Gently pull SSD at 30° angle
- Install New SSD:
- Align notch with slot key
- Secure with mounting screw (0.5 Nm torque)
Current Resale Values
- 256GB OEM SSD:
- Used: $20-$30
- With original Lenovo stickers: $35-$45
- 512GB OEM SSD:
- Used: $40-$55
- Low hours usage: $60-$75
Maximizing SSD Resale Value
- Data Wiping:
- Perform secure erase in BIOS
- Zero-fill using disk utility
- Health Reporting:
- Include CrystalDiskInfo screenshots
- Show power-on hours under 5,000
- Presentation:
- Clean contacts with isopropyl
- Photograph with Lenovo part numbers
Buyer Compatibility Notes
- Works with most Lenovo models 2019-2023
- Ideal for IdeaPad 3/5, Yoga 6/7 series
- Not compatible with Legion models (different slot)
5. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15" Battery Removal & Current Resale Valuation
Battery Specifications
| Model | Capacity | Voltage | Part Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 45Wh | 11.4V | L19M3PB1 |
| High Capacity | 52.5Wh | 11.4V | L19M3PB2 |
Safe Battery Removal Process
- Power Down:
- Shut down completely
- Hold power button for 15 seconds
- Disconnect Battery:
- Locate 4-pin white connector
- Use plastic spudger to release latch
- Remove Battery:
- Unscrew 4x T8 screws (marked ⚡)
- Lift from bottom edge first
Current Market Values
- 45Wh Battery:
- Under 100 cycles: $45-$65
- 300+ cycles: $25-$40
- 52.5Wh Battery:
- Under 100 cycles: $60-$85
- New in box: $90-$120
Maximizing Battery Value
- Health Documentation:
- Capture battery report (powercfg /batteryreport)
- Show cycle count under 200
- Physical Condition:
- Clean contacts with isopropyl
- No swelling or deformation
- Packaging:
- Use anti-static bag
- Include original screws
Buyer Compatibility Notes
- Fits IdeaPad 3 15" models 2020-2023
- Also compatible with IdeaPad 5 15" same years
- Not for use with Yoga or ThinkPad models
6. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15" LCD Screen Removal & Resale Preparation
LCD Panel Specifications
| Model | Resolution | Refresh Rate | Part Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard TN | 1920x1080 | 60Hz | LP156WFC-SPD1 |
| Upgrade IPS | 1920x1080 | 60Hz | LP156WFA-SPB3 |
Step-by-Step Removal Process
- Bezel Removal:
- Use plastic spudger at bottom edge
- Work around perimeter (12 clip locations)
- Display Cable Disconnection:
- Flip up ZIF connector latch
- Gently pull 30-pin eDP cable straight out
- Bracket Removal:
- Remove 4x M2.5x5mm screws
- Lift LCD panel straight up
Current Resale Values
- TN Panel (Used):
- No dead pixels: $45-$65
- Minor defects: $25-$40
- IPS Panel (Used):
- Perfect condition: $80-$120
- New in box: $130-$180
Maximizing Screen Value
- Condition Documentation:
- Photograph with color test patterns
- Show no backlight bleed
- Protective Packaging:
- Use foam corner protectors
- Double-box for shipping
- Included Components:
- Original mounting brackets
- Display cables if undamaged
Buyer Compatibility Notes
- Fits 2019-2023 IdeaPad 3 15" models
- Check connector type before resale
- Not compatible with touchscreen versions
7. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15" Motherboard Diagnostics & Resale Valuation
Common Motherboard Problems
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Repairability |
|---|---|---|
| No power | DC-in port failure | Moderate (requires soldering) |
| Random shutdowns | VRM overheating | Advanced (reballing needed) |
| USB ports not working | Southbridge failure | High (chip replacement) |
Pre-Resale Diagnostics
- Visual Inspection:
- Check for burnt components
- Look for liquid damage markers
- Basic Function Test:
- Power on with minimal components
- Check for POST beep codes
- Component Verification:
- Test USB ports with known devices
- Verify RAM slot functionality
Current Market Values
- Fully Functional Board:
- With original serial stickers: $120-$180
- For parts/repair: $60-$90
- Non-Working Board:
- Known good CPU/GPU: $40-$70
- For components only: $20-$35
Maximizing Resale Value
- Documentation:
- Photograph all serial numbers
- Include BIOS version screenshots
- Cleaning:
- Remove all dust/debris
- Clean corrosion with isopropyl
- Packaging:
- Use anti-static bags
- Include original screws/standoffs
Buyer Compatibility Notes
- Works with 2020-2023 IdeaPad 3 15" models
- Verify CPU generation before resale
- Not compatible with AMD versions
8. Where to Sell Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Parts for Maximum Cash
Top Online Selling Platforms
| Platform | Best For | Commission |
|---|---|---|
| SellBroke | Quick corporate buybacks | No fees (instant offer) |
| SellLaptopBack | Individual part sales | 12-15% |
| eBay | Rare components | 13% + payment fees |
Competitive Pricing Guide
- Research Comps:
- Filter by "sold listings" on eBay
- Check refurbisher buyback prices
- Condition Pricing:
- New: 80% of retail
- Used/tested: 40-60% of retail
- For parts: 20-35% of retail
Safe Shipping Methods
- Batteries:
- USPS Ground (no air)
- 30% charge state
- Screens:
- Double-box with foam
- Mark "Fragile - LCD Panel"
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