Console · Microsoft · Xbox Series X
Microsoft Xbox Series X Hard Drive Replacement
Hard Drive Replacement guide for the Microsoft Xbox Series X
Before you begin
Tools
- TR8 Torx Security Screwdriver
- T8 Torx Screwdriver
- T10 Torx Screwdriver
- Spudger
- Precision Tweezers
- Anti-static wrist strap
- Clean workspace mat
Parts / materials
- Replacement M.2 2230 NVMe SSD
- Replacement thermal pad for M.2 SSD
Safety
- Ensure the console is fully powered down and the AC power cord is disconnected before disassembly.
- Wear an anti-static wrist strap connected to a grounded object to avoid damaging sensitive IC components.
- Handle the internal circuit boards strictly by the non-conductive edges.
Overview
Step-by-step
- 1
Peel Off Rear Labels
2 minUse precision tweezers to peel back the regulatory sticker and warranty seal on the back panel to reveal hidden screws.
- 2
Remove Rear Panel Screws
2 minUse a TR8 Torx security screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the back plastic housing.
- 3
Pry Off Rear Cover
3 minInsert a spudger into the seam along the back panel and gently slide along the edges to release the plastic clips.
- 4
Unscrew Main Cooling Fan
3 minRemove the three T8 Torx screws securing the top cooling fan assembly to the internal frame.
- 5
Disconnect Fan Cable
2 minUnplug the fan power connector from the motherboard and lift the fan straight out of the chassis.
- 6
Unscrew Power Supply Unit
3 minRemove the T8 Torx screws holding the internal power supply module to the frame.
- 7
Remove Power Supply Unit
3 minGently pull the power supply unit straight up to disconnect it from the motherboard power prongs.
- 8
Disconnect Disc Drive
3 minUnplug the power and data ribbon cables from the back of the optical drive, then lift the drive out.
- 9
Unbolt Chassis Frame Screws
5 minRemove the green T10 Torx screws securing the motherboard chassis inside the outer enclosure.
- 10
Extract Motherboard Assembly
4 minCarefully lift the entire dual-board aluminum assembly out of the outer plastic shell.
- 11
Unscrew SSD Shield
2 minLocate the metal SSD thermal shield on the board and remove the single T8 Torx screw holding it down.
- 12
Remove Thermal Shield
1 minLift off the copper heat shield cover and thermal pad covering the factory M.2 SSD.
- 13
Remove Original SSD
2 minGently slide the original M.2 2230 NVMe drive out of its connector at a slight angle.
- 14
Insert Replacement SSD
2 minAlign the notch on the new M.2 2230 SSD with the socket and slide it firmly into place.
- 15
Secure SSD Heat Shield
2 minPlace the thermal pad and copper shield back over the new SSD, then tighten the T8 Torx screw to secure it.
After your Microsoft Xbox Series X hard drive replacement
Power the Xbox Series X back on and test the hard drive replacement function before you put every screw away. Check touch/display response, charging, cameras, buttons, and wireless as relevant to this repair. If something fails after closing the device, reopen carefully and reseat the connectors for this Microsoft Xbox Series X job before assuming the part is defective. Keep leftover adhesive and screws labeled in case you need a second pass.
Keep learning
Explore more Microsoft Xbox Series X repair context in the encyclopedia, or open related DIY guides.
