Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 2 (i5-1135G7) - Complete Disassembly & Upgrade Guide: RAM, SSD, Battery & Parts Replacement
Jul 20, 2025
1. Pre-Disassembly: Maximizing Your ThinkPad E14 Gen 2 Resale Value
ThinkPad-Specific Value Assessment
- Enterprise Features Verification:
- Confirm Intel vPro functionality in BIOS
- Document MIL-STD-810G compliance tags
- Component Health Checks:
- Run
lenovo-diagnostics --fullin Linux or use Lenovo Vantage on Windows - Test all USB-C/Thunderbolt ports with PD charger
- Run
Essential Documentation Tools
| Tool | Purpose | Resale Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Serial Number | Lenovo Support Lookup | +15% value with complete history |
| Battery Report | powercfg /batteryreport |
Under 100 cycles = +$35 |
| Keyboard Test | Online Tester | Backlit = +$28 premium |
Pre-Sale Optimization Steps
- Cosmetic Grading:
- Use eBay's condition standards
- Note all wear points (palmrest, lid corners)
- Data Sanitization:
- Perform Lenovo Secure Erase for SSDs
- Remove BIOS passwords via master reset jumper
- Accessory Verification:
- Original 65W USB-C charger (FRU 5A20W26268)
- Docking compatibility documentation
Current Market Benchmarks (2024)
- Complete Systems:
- i5-1135G7/8GB/256GB: $320-$380
- Add $85 for 16GB RAM configuration
- Parts Value:
- Original 45Wh battery: $48-$65
- Backlit keyboard assembly: $35-$50
2. Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 2 Bottom Cover Removal: Tool-Free Access Without Damage
⚠️ Critical Precautions
- Pre-Disassembly Checks:
- Disconnect AC adapter and peripherals
- Ground yourself using anti-static wristband
- ThinkPad-Specific Warnings:
- Avoid pressure near the liquid drainage channels
- Note factory-applied tamper stickers (voiding may affect resale)
🔧 Tool-Free Removal Steps
- Release Latches:
- Locate 3 recessed latches (front edge and both rear corners)
- Slide fingernail or nylon spudger 2mm inward
- Lift Cover:
- Start from front-right corner (near USB ports)
- Apply even upward pressure at 30° angle
- Disconnect Battery:
- Locate white ZIF connector marked "BT1"
- Lift black locking flap before pulling cable
🛡️ Preserving Resale Value
| Potential Damage | Prevention Method | Resale Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Clip breakage | Use iFixit's opening pattern | Intact clips = +12% value |
| Chassis scratches | Place on microfiber cloth | Flawless finish = +$25 |
| Tamper evidence | Photograph pre-existing stickers | Original seals = corporate buyer premium |
🔄 Common Issues & Solutions
- Stuck Latches:
- Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol with dental floss along seams
- Wait 2 minutes before retrying
- Misaligned Cover:
- Verify all latches fully disengaged
- Check for overlooked screws under rubber feet
0:20 Bottom Case 1:22 Battery 2:28 SSD Storage 2:50 Memory RAM 3:10 WiFi Card 3:49 Cooling Fan and Heatsink 5:27 Speakers 5:50 Motherboard 6:03 Unscrew Hinges 6:35 Disconnect Video Cable 7:18 IO USB Board 7:35 Palmrest Assembly 7:40 Touchpad 8:15 Keyboard 8:30 Display Assembly 8:41 LCD Front Bezel 10:05 Hinges 10:37 Catch and Pull Adhesive Strips 11:32 LCD Screen 11:43 Video Cable and WebCam 12:12 WiFi Antenna 12:35 Back Cover
3. Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 2 RAM Upgrade: Dual-Channel Performance & Resale Optimization
⚡ RAM Specifications
- Supported Type: DDR4-3200 SODIMM (1.2V)
- Configuration:
- 1x Soldered + 1x Slot (Max 32GB)
- Dual-channel works with matched capacities
- Recommended Kits:
- Crucial 16GB CT16G4SFRA32A
- Samsung 16GB M471A2K43DB1
🔧 Step-by-Step Installation
- Discharge Static:
- Touch metal chassis before handling RAM
- Work on anti-static mat
- Access RAM Slot:
- 45° angle insertion for SODIMM
- Align notch 6.6cm from edge
- Verify Installation:
- Run
sudo dmidecode -t memory(Linux) - Check Lenovo Vantage on Windows
- Run
📊 Dual-Channel Benchmark Gains
| Configuration | PassMark Score | Resale Value Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 8GB (1x8GB) | 3,200 | Base Value |
| 16GB (8+8GB Dual) | 5,800 (+81%) | +$85-$120 |
| 32GB (16+16GB Dual) | 7,100 (+122%) | +$150-$200 |
Data from PassMark benchmarks
💰 Selling Original RAM
- Market Pricing:
- 4GB DDR4-3200: $12-$18
- 8GB DDR4-3200: $25-$35
- Best Platforms:
- SellBroke (tech-specific)
- eBay (list as "Tested Working")
4. Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 2 SSD Upgrade: NVMe Performance & Secure Data Migration
🔍 SSD Compatibility
- Form Factor: M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe
- Recommended Upgrades:
- WD Black SN770 (Gen3 price/performance leader)
- Samsung 970 EVO Plus (Best resale value)
- Max Capacity: 2TB (BIOS limitation)
🛠️ Step-by-Step Replacement
- Disconnect Battery:
- Locate BT1 connector (marked in white)
- Wait 60 seconds for capacitor discharge
- Remove Original SSD:
- M2x3mm screw (1.5Nm torque)
- 30° angle extraction technique
- Install New SSD:
- Apply >Arctic MX-6 if reusing thermal pad
- Secure with original screw (overtightening voids warranty)
💾 Data Transfer Options
| Method | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Lenovo Migration Tool | ~20 mins (500GB) | Windows license preservation |
| Clonezilla | ~30 mins | Linux/dual-boot systems |
| Fresh Install | Varies | Resale preparation |
💰 Maximizing Old SSD Value
- Secure Erase:
- Use
nvme format -s1for NVMe drives - Lenovo Secure Data Disposal for SED models
- Use
- Health Documentation:
- CrystalDiskInfo SMART data screenshots
- Power-on hours & TBW (Terabytes Written)
- Market Prices (2024):
- 256GB OEM = $25-$40
- 512GB OEM = $45-$65
5. Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 2 Battery Replacement: Safe Removal & Certification for Resale
🔋 Battery Specifications
- Part Numbers:
- 45Wh: 01AV494 (FRU 5B10W13858)
- 57Wh: 01AV496 (FRU 5B10W13859)
- Health Check:
- Run
powercfg /batteryreportin CMD - Check Lenovo Vantage for cycle count
- Run
⚠️ Safe Removal Process
- Pre-Discharge:
- Drain battery to 30-50% charge
- Disable Internal Battery in BIOS
- Adhesive Release:
- Apply iOpener heat (60°C) for 2 minutes
- Use nylon spudgers at 45° angle
- Disconnect Battery:
- Remove BT1 connector before lifting
- Avoid bending battery cells
📜 Resale Certification
| Document | Source | Value Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Genuine FRU Letter | Lenovo Parts Lookup | +40% vs aftermarket |
| Health Report | Lenovo Diagnostics | 85%+ health = +$35 |
| UN38.3 Cert | ICAO Standards | Required for shipping |
✈️ Safe Shipping Guidelines
- USPS Requirements:
- Protect terminals with non-conductive tape
- Include Lithium Battery Marking
- International:
- IATA Packing Instruction 965
- Max 2 batteries per package
6. Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 2 Keyboard & Trackpad Replacement: Professional Service Guide
🔍 Part Identification
- Keyboard FRUs:
- Non-backlit: 5B20Z25813 (US English)
- Backlit: 5B20Z25816 (+$35 resale value)
- Trackpad Versions:
- Standard: 5B20Z25819 (Synaptics)
- Premium: 5B20Z25822 (Windows Precision)
⌨️ Keyboard Replacement Steps
- Disable Internal Battery via BIOS
- Remove Bezel:
- Release 7 hidden clips with opening picks
- Start from top-right corner near ESC key
- Disconnect Cables:
- Keyboard: 40-pin ZIF connector (flip lock upward)
- Trackpad: 20-pin FPC cable
🖱️ Trackpad Installation Tips
- Alignment Marks:
- Match triangle indicators on chassis
- 0.5mm gap around edges required
- Driver Verification:
- Check
libinput list-devices(Linux) - Run Lenovo Vantage on Windows
- Check
💰 Resale Value Factors
| Component | Condition | Value Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Backlit Keyboard | Working LEDs | +$40-$60 |
| Trackpad | No wear spots | +$25-$35 |
| Spill Guard | Intact drainage | +15% (corporate premium) |
⚠️ Common Issues
- Key Ghosting:
- Test with online tester
- Reseat connector 3x if occurring
- Trackpad Jumping:
- Reinstall Synaptics drivers
- Check grounding tape alignment
7. Selling ThinkPad E14 Gen 2 Parts: Corporate Buyer Strategies & Premium Channels
🏢 Top Corporate Buyer Platforms
| Platform | Best For | Commission |
|---|---|---|
| SellBroke | Motherboards/SSDs | 7.5% + $0.25 |
| SellLaptopBack | Batteries/Displays | 9% flat |
| GovDeals | Bulk Lots (5+ units) | 15% (buyer-paid) |
📜 Certification Premiums
- Lenovo Refurbished:
- ThinkPlus certification adds 40% value
- Requires 90-day warranty
- Data Sanitization:
- NIST 800-88 compliance documents
- Mandatory for .gov sales
🔍 Listing Optimization
- Title Template:
- "Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 2 [Part] - [FRU] - [Certification]"
- Must-Include Keywords:
- Intel vPro Enterprise
- MIL-STD-810G Tested
- Corporate Asset Ready
- Images:
- FRU sticker close-up
- Diagnostics pass screenshot
💰 2024 ThinkPad Parts Value Guide
| Component | Standard | Certified Refurb |
|---|---|---|
| i5 Motherboard | $180-$220 | $270-$330 |
| 57Wh Battery | $50 | $90 |
| Backlit Keyboard | $45 | $75 |
Data sourced from EPA eCycling market reports
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