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Fix a Chromebook that has a screen that is cracked

We'll assess the damage, advise on safe use, and tell you when to call a technician—screen replacement is not DIY for most users.

Troubleshooting · Home maintenance
5–10 min (assessment)
What you'll need
  • Chromebook
  • External monitor (optional, if built-in is unusable)
Step 1 of 3

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Steps

Goal: Assess the damage and use the Chromebook safely.

  • Confirm the crack. Avoid touching it.
  • Good: You know the extent. Proceed to Assess damage.
  • Bad: Do not press the crack; it can worsen.

Assess damage

Goal: See if the display still works.

  • Power on. Check if the screen is usable or if you need an external display.
  • Good: Display works. Use carefully; get a repair quote.
  • Bad: Use an external display. Get a repair quote.

External display

Goal: Use the Chromebook when the built-in screen is unusable.

  • Connect an external monitor via HDMI or USB-C.
  • Good: You can use the Chromebook with the external display.
  • Bad: Contact a repair shop for a quote.

When to get help

Call a technician for screen replacement. DIY is complex and risks further damage.

Verification

  • You have assessed the damage.
  • You are using the Chromebook safely (or with an external display).
  • You have a repair quote or plan.

Escalation ladder

Work from the device outward. Stop when the problem is fixed.

  1. Assess Confirm crack; avoid touching it.
  2. External display Use HDMI or USB-C monitor if built-in is unusable.
  3. Repair quote Contact manufacturer or repair shop.
  4. Call a pro Screen replacement requires a technician.

What to capture if you need help

Before calling support or posting for help, have these ready. It speeds everything up.

  • Chromebook model
  • Extent of crack (cosmetic vs functional)
  • Whether display still works
  • Warranty status

Does the display still work despite the crack?

Some cracks are cosmetic.

Power on. Check if you can see and use the screen. Yes: use carefully; get repair quote. No: use external display; get repair quote.

Yes No

You can change your answer later.

Use carefully

Avoid touching crack. Back up data. Get repair quote. Use until repaired.

Done

Use external display

Connect HDMI or USB-C monitor. Use Chromebook with external display. Get repair quote. Do not attempt DIY screen replacement.

Done

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

Frequently asked questions

Why would a Chromebook screen crack?
Impact, pressure (e.g. in a bag with heavy items), or manufacturing defect. Most cracks are from physical damage.
Can I fix a cracked screen myself?
Screen replacement requires disassembly and a matching panel. Most users should use a technician. DIY can damage the device.
When should I call a technician for a cracked screen?
For any crack. Screen replacement is a professional job. Warranty usually does not cover physical damage.

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