Framework Laptop 16 WiFi Antenna Repair
Complete guide to Framework Laptop 16 wifi antenna repair. Cost estimates, difficulty level, time required, and environmental impact.
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💰 Cost Breakdown
💡 Tip: Costs vary by location and repair shop. Authorized service centers typically charge more than independent repair shops.
🔧 Repair Overview
WiFi Antenna Repair is one of the most common repairs for Framework Laptop 16. This repair involves replacing the damaged connectivity component with a new or refurbished part. The process typically takes 1-2 hours and requires moderate skill level.
🔧 Required Tools
What You'll Need
- Replacement connectivity part (OEM or aftermarket)
- Precision screwdriver set (Phillips #000 or pentalobe)
- Opening tools (plastic spudger, suction cup)
- Adhesive strips or glue
- Clean workspace with good lighting
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Before you begin
Unplug all cables and fully shut down your laptop.
If your repair requires a spudger, a T5 Torx, or a Phillips screwdriver, you can use the included Framework screwdriver. Whichever works best for you!
Framework recommends that you put your laptop into ***battery disconnect mode*** in the BIOS whenever removing the battery. Read how to do that [link|https://guides.frame.work/Guide/Mainboard/283?lang=en#s2006|here|new_window=true].
To disable this mode, click [link|https://guides.frame.work/Guide/Mainboard/283?lang=en#s2007|here|new_window=true].
Step 2: Unlock the Input Modules
Use your fingernail to pull out the two Input Module latches and unlock them.
The latch will show red if it's unlocked.
Step 3: Remove the touchpad spacers
Use your fingers to slide the touchpad spacer toward the bottom edge of the laptop and unclip it.
If you're having trouble, check if the corresponding Input Module latch is properly unlocked.
Lift the touchpad spacer off the laptop and remove it.
Step 4:
Repeat the same procedure for the other touchpad spacer.
Step 5: Remove the touchpad
Use your fingers to slide the touchpad toward the bottom edge of the laptop and disconnect it.
If you're having trouble, check if the Input Module latches are properly unlocked.
Lift the touchpad and remove it.
During reassembly, perform the following:
Place the touchpad flat on its cutout so [link|https://guide-images.cdn.ifixit.com/igi/3IG23UyJJiG66yWx.full|its clips|new_window=true] are properly aligned.
Press the touchpad down and slide it into place so it lines up evenly with the bottom edge of the laptop.
Step 6: Remove the keyboard
The keyboard is held in place with strong magnets. Apply gradually increasing force to avoid having the keyboard violently eject.
Grip the two pull tabs along the bottom of the keyboard.
Lift the pull tabs until the keyboard magnets release.
Remove the keyboard.
During reassembly, make sure the keyboard is seated properly on its [link|https://guide-images.cdn.ifixit.com/igi/yG5pofFao6OSTNba.full|alignment pegs|new_window=true] and sits evenly with the edges of the laptop.
Step 7: Remove the numpad
The numpad is held in place with strong magnets. Apply gradually increasing force to avoid having the numpad violently eject.
Grip the pull tab at the bottom of the numpad.
Lift the pull tab until the numpad magnets release.
Remove the numpad.
During reassembly, make sure the numpad is seated properly on its [link|https://guide-images.cdn.ifixit.com/igi/plbvTvmwdh2xGjYJ.full|alignment pegs|new_window=true] and sits flush with the edges of the laptop.
Step 8: Disconnect the midframe cable
Grip the black pull tab on the midframe cable press connector.
Lift up to disconnect the midframe cable.
Step 9: Loosen the midframe screws
The midframe screws are ordered from 2–17 (number 1 is the press connector). You don't have to follow the order, but you can use it to help keep track of the screws you've loosened.
Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to loosen the 16 captive screws securing the midframe.
During reassembly, ***follow the order*** (starting with 2) to reinstall the screws across the midframe evenly.
Step 10: Remove the midframe
Use your fingernail to lift the bottom edge of the midframe enough to grip it with your fingers.
Step 11:
Lift the midframe off the laptop and remove it.
During reassembly, make sure the midframe sits evenly on its [link|https://guide-images.cdn.ifixit.com/igi/gwl5ODMsAF2WDDTS.full|alignment pegs|new_window=true] before tightening the screws.
Step 12: Loosen the battery screws
Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to loosen the three captive screws securing the battery.
Step 13: Remove the battery
Grip the black pull tab at the top of the battery.
Lift the pull tab to disconnect the battery connector.
Remove the battery.
📖 Repair guide provided by iFixit - The free repair manual. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 3.0.
iFixit Difficulty: Easy | Time: NaNh NaNm
DIY vs Professional Repair
✋ DIY Repair
- ✅ Lower cost (parts only: $36-$108)
- ✅ Learn new skills
- ❌ Risk of further damage
- ❌ No warranty
- ❌ Requires tools and time
🔧 Professional Repair
- ✅ Expert installation
- ✅ Warranty included
- ✅ Faster turnaround
- ❌ Higher cost ($60-$180)
- ❌ Need to find reputable shop
Environmental Impact
By choosing to repair your Framework Laptop 16 instead of replacing it, you're preventing approximately 261 kg of CO₂ emissions. Manufacturing a new Framework Laptop 16 generates 265 kg of CO₂, while this repair only produces about 4 kg of CO₂. That's a 98% reduction in carbon emissions!
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