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Steam deck repair tips: how to remove backplate screws

Newbie's Repair Trouble | Steam Deck SSD Exchange Stirs Concern

By

Chloe Kim

Jun 4, 2025, 11:39 PM

Edited By

Omar Ali

2 minutes of duration

A person carefully unscrewing the backplate of a Steam Deck handheld gaming device with a screwdriver.
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A new user attempts to navigate internal repairs on their Steam Deck, only to face potential mishaps after misinterpreting instructions. Despite using recommended tools, the situation highlights the challenges faced by novice repair enthusiasts.

Confession from a First-Timer

In a post that caught attention in user boards, a newcomer revealed their struggle to replace the SSD in their Steam Deck. They attempted to loosen screws instead of fully removing them before taking off the back cover. This misstep led to fears of stripping screws and resulted in a couple of cuts on their hand.

"The tutorial guy made it look so easy!" the user lamented, expressing frustration over the mishap.

Steps Taken and Damage Done

Initial attempts saw them tearing off the back cover while screws remained attached. Community members rushed to respond with concerns and assistance.

  • User Suggestions:

    • "Be sure to take the SD CARD!"

    • "It's not clear what you did; did you tear off the back cover with the screws in?"

The post generated discussions on proper techniques and safety measures. Some advised patience and suggested approaches to avoid further damage, emphasizing the importance of following each step carefully to prevent mishaps.

User Support & Solutions

The original poster featured additional commentary, now leaning toward a cautious restart. Other comments reaffirmed the need for proper tool usage, suggesting resources and alternate forums to seek help.

  • Comment Highlights:

    • "If you donโ€™t find an answer here, someone will help soon."

    • "Think through your actions before proceeding."

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿšซ Mistakes in DIY repairs can cause physical injuries and may lead to serious damage.

  • ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Following a guided tutorial strictly can prevent mishaps.

  • ๐Ÿ” Communities provide crucial support for DIY enthusiasts navigating repairs.

In a time when gamers are increasingly tempted to service their own devices, this incident serves as a reminder of the potential pitfallsโ€”and the value of community guidance in DIY fixes.

Whatโ€™s on the Horizon for DIY Repairs?

As more gamers take on repairs themselves, itโ€™s likely we'll see a surge in DIY repair communities and resources. Experts estimate that around 60% of gamers will attempt fixes independently, driven by the rising costs of professional repairs and the growing availability of online guides. This trend could prompt gaming companies to consider producing more accessible tutorials and even design products with easier repair processes. The challenge remainsโ€”will these resources keep pace with the increasing number of people trying their hand at repairs?

Echoes from the Past in Self-Reliance

In the spirit of self-empowerment, consider the early days of personal computing in the 1980s. As hobbyists tinkered with their machines, similar missteps were common. Just as todayโ€™s gamers face repair mishaps with their Steam Deck, those early DIY computer enthusiasts often ended up in a tangle of screws and wires, leading to unintended consequences. Yet, these experiences forged tight-knit communities that shared knowledge and ultimately advanced the craft of home computing. In both instances, the essence of trial and error paves the way for progress, highlighting the resilience of the hands-on creator.