Disassembling a laptop ASUS - a task that every user faces sooner or later. replace thermal paste, add RAM or just clean the cooling system from dust, opening the case correctly is the key to success. But there are a lot of nuances here: from the type of fasteners to the location of hidden latches, which can turn a simple procedure into a nightmare with cracked plastic.

In this article we will look at step-by-step algorithm for different lines ASUS - from ultrabooks ZenBook to gaming ROG Strix, we indicate unique mounting features for 2023–2026 models (for example, hidden screws under rubber feet) and warn against common mistakes. You will also learn which tools are really needed and which you can do without.

Preparation: what needs to be done before disassembly

Before you use a screwdriver, make sure you completely ready. About 30% of breakdowns during DIY repairs occur due to improper preparation. Here's what to check:

  • 🔌 Turn off the power: Remove the charger and remove the battery (if possible without disassembly). Models ASUS TUF Gaming The battery is often hidden under the bottom cover - more on that later.
  • 📱 Take a photo of the location of the screws: Even if you are sure that you will remember where each screw was located, a photograph will save you from headaches during assembly. This is especially true for ZenBook Pro, where the screws are of different lengths.
  • 🧹 Prepare your workplace: The table must be clean, free of crumbs and liquids. Ideal to use antistatic mat or at least place the laptop on a soft cloth.
  • 🔧 Pick your tools: minimum set - Phillips screwdriver PH00 and a plastic pick. For ROG Zephyrus may be needed T5 or T6 for torx screws.

If you are disassembling a laptop for the first time, pay attention to service manual for your model. It can be found on the official website ASUS in the support section. For example, for ASUS Vivobook S14 there is PDF instructions with screw markings.

📊 What tool do you already have?
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Plastic pick
  • Torx bit set
  • Antistatic wrist strap
  • None of the above

Types of mounts for ASUS laptops: what awaits you inside

The design of the housings ASUS varies greatly depending on the series. Even within the same line, for example ROG Strix, there may be differences. Here are the main types of fasteners you'll encounter:

Laptop type Screw type Additional mounts Features
ZenBook (UX3/4/5) PH00 (5–7 screws) Perimeter latches The screws are hidden under the rubber feet. The legs are glued, remove carefully!
ROG Strix/Zephyrus PH00 + T5/T6 Metal latches + plastic clips U Zephyrus G14 2023 screws under the RAM compartment cover
Vivobook (S/X) PH00 (8–10 screws) Plastic clips The lid often comes with slots for the pick - start there
TUF Gaming PH00 + T5 Metal latches The battery may be blocking access to the motherboard

Pay special attention hidden screws. For example, at ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2026) one screw is hidden under a sticker with a serial number. If you do not unscrew it, the lid will not give in, and if you try to force it, you can break the clips.

What to do if the screw does not come out?

If the screw is “stuck” or does not budge:

1. Check that the screwdriver is the correct size (e.g. PH00, not PH0).

2. Drip WD-40 or rubbing alcohol on the threads, wait 5 minutes.

3. Try to unscrew with light downward pressure (so that the screwdriver does not slip).

4. If it doesn’t help, don’t use force! It is better to contact a service center than to rip off the spline.

Step-by-step instructions: how to open the bottom cover

Now let's move on to the process itself. Follow this algorithm and you will minimize the risk of damage:

  1. Remove all screws from the bottom cover. Make sure you haven't missed any (see table above). U ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED The screws can be of different lengths - remember where they were.
  2. Insert a pick into the gap between the cover and the body. Start in the corner where there are no ports (usually the top right corner). Carefully move the pick along the perimeter, snapping off the clips.
  3. Lift the lid at an angle of 30–45°. Do not pull it sharply - cables may be connected inside (for example, ROG Flow The touchpad cable goes through the cover).
  4. Check for loops. If the cover does not come off completely, look for black or orange tapes - they need to be carefully removed.

U ASUS ROG Ally (gaming handheld-PC) the process is more complicated: there the cover is secured with 12 screws, and there is also a metal frame under it. If you are disassembling this particular model, prepare for what you will need T4 And T5 bits.

All screws are removed (check twice!)

The pick is inserted into the correct angle

There are no connected cables (lift the cover carefully)

Photos of screw locations were taken

-->

What to do if the cover does not come off: typical problems

Even with careful actions, the lid may jam. Here are the most common reasons and solutions:

  • 🔩 Missing screw: Check all holes again. U ASUS Vivobook Pro one screw can be hidden under a rubber plug near the vent.
  • 🔗 Jammed latches: if the pick does not help, try slightly heating the edge of the lid with a hairdryer (no higher than 50°C). The plastic will become softer and the clips will snap off easier.
  • 🔌 Connected loop: y ASUS ZenBook Duo The second screen cable goes through the lid. If you pull too hard, you can tear it off.
  • 🛠️ Deformed body: If the laptop was dropped, the lid could become bent. In this case, it is better not to risk it and contact the service.

If you feel that the cover is “tight”, but all the screws are unscrewed - don't use force. It’s better to inspect the case again for hidden fasteners. For example, at ASUS TUF Dash F15 There are two screws under the RAM removable panel.

💡

If you don't have a pick, you can use an old bank card or guitar pick. The main thing is that the tool is thin and flexible, but not sharp (otherwise you will scratch the body).

Models with unique mounts: ZenBook, ROG and others

Some laptops ASUS require a special approach. Let's look at the most difficult cases:

ASUS ZenBook (all models)

For ultrabooks ZenBook the cover is secured with screws PH00, but the main problem is rubber feet. They are glued, and if they are torn off carelessly, marks will remain. To remove the legs:

  1. Pry up the edge of the leg with a plastic spatula.
  2. Heat with a hairdryer (30–40°C) to soften the glue.
  3. Gently pull up without twisting.

Under the legs you will find 2-4 hidden screws. The lid will not come off without unscrewing them.

ASUS ROG Strix/Zephyrus (gaming models)

Gaming laptops often have additional metal frame under the lid. For example, at ROG Strix G17 After removing the bottom panel you have to unscrew 6 more screws T5to get to the cooler.

Also note cooling system: y Zephyrus G14 The heatsink may be blocking access to the motherboard. You will have to disconnect the cooler pipes.

ASUS TUF Gaming (budget gaming)

U TUF Gaming A15/A17 The cover can be removed relatively easily, but there is a pitfall - battery. It occupies almost the entire area and is secured with 4 screws. To remove it, first disconnect the power cable from the motherboard (otherwise you risk shortening the board).

💡

On laptops ASUS ROG 2023–2026 screws are often used with spring washers. When assembling, make sure that the washers remain in place - without them, the lid will rattle.

What not to do during disassembly: critical mistakes

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to expensive repairs. That's what strictly prohibited:

⚠️ Attention: Never unscrew the screws by weight - always hold the cover with your hand. U ASUS Vivobook Flip The plastic inserts around the screws may crack if not secured.
  • 🔥 Use metal tools to pry off clips. Even if you are “very careful,” you will scratch the case or break the latch. Only plastic or wood!
  • ⚡ Work without an antistatic wrist strap (or at least without grounding). Static electricity can kill the motherboard, especially ZenBook with thin paths.
  • 🔧 Apply force to the cables. U ASUS ROG Flow X13 The cable of the second screen is soldered to the board - if it is torn off, the repair will cost 30% of the cost of the laptop.
  • 💧 Clean dust with wet wipes. Even if the laptop is turned off, moisture may remain on the contacts. Use dry brush or a can of compressed air.

Another common mistake is mixed up screws. For example, if in ASUS ZenBook 13 screw the long screw into the place for the short one, it will rest against the motherboard. To avoid this, place the screws on a piece of paper in the order in which they were removed.

⚠️ Attention: For models ASUS ROG with liquid metal thermal paste (for example, Strix Scar 18) Do not touch the radiator with bare hands. Liquid metal is toxic and can oxidize from sweat.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Do I need to remove the battery before disassembling?

Mandatory, if possible without opening the case. U ASUS TUF And ROG The battery often blocks access to other components. If you can’t remove it, at least disconnect the power cable from the motherboard.

Is it possible to open ASUS ZenBook without a mediator?

Theoretically yes, but the risk of damaging the clips is very high. If there is no mediator, use guitar pick or bank card, but proceed with extreme caution. U ZenBook the clips are fragile.

What should I do if the laptop does not turn on after assembly?

Check:

  1. Все ли шлейфы подключены (особенно питания и кнопки включения).
  2. Are the contacts on the motherboard shorted (inspect for any foreign screws or debris).
  3. Is the battery connected (even if the laptop is running on mains power, some models require a connected battery to start).

If all else fails, contact service, indicating that you carried out disassembly.

How often should you clean your laptop? ASUS from dust?

Depends on operating conditions:

  • Office use (low dust) - once every 1.5–2 years.
  • Home use (average dust level) - once a year.
  • Gaming laptops (ROG/Strix/TUF) or work in dusty areas - every 6 months.

Signs that it’s time to clean: increased noise from coolers, overheating (above 90°C under load), spontaneous shutdowns.

Where can I find the screw diagram for my model? ASUS?

Find official diagrams here:

  1. Support site ASUS: enter your laptop model → section Manuals & Documents → Service Manual.
  2. YouTube: channels Laptop Repair or ASUS Support showdowns are often posted.
  3. Forums: NotebookReview or Reddit (r/ASUS, r/laptops).

If you can't find it, take a photo of the location of the screws before disassembling.