This page sets out the repairs, upgrades and data recovery we carry out on the Alienware 17 R4, with notes on what tends to go wrong and what can and cannot be upgraded. The Alienware 17 R4 is a 2016 gaming laptop with a 17.3-inch screen. Both the drive and, on most configurations, the memory can be upgraded, which makes it a good candidate for a refresh.
- Model number
- 17 R4
- Released
- 2016
- Type
- Gaming laptop
- Screen
- 17.3-inch
- Storage
- M.2 SSD, two slots on most configurations
- Memory
- SODIMM slots
Alienware 17 R4 repairs and upgrades
Screen replacement
The 17.3-inch panel is matched to the original by part number, including refresh rate and connector type, so games run as they did before.
Price confirmed before work starts
Overheating and fan repair
We strip the cooling system, clean the fans and heatsink fins and renew the thermal compound and pads. We check temperatures under load afterwards.
SSD and storage upgrade
Most configurations of the Alienware 17 R4 have two M.2 slots, so a second SSD can be added, or the existing one cloned to a larger drive.
Price confirmed before work starts
Memory upgrade
Most configurations of the Alienware 17 R4 have SODIMM memory slots, so memory can be increased. We check what is fitted and the maximum the board supports.
Graphics repair
The graphics chip is soldered to the board. Artefacts, crashes under load and a black screen with the fans running are diagnosed to the chip, its memory or its power stage, and repaired at board level where it is economical.
Windows repair and reinstall
This model does not meet Microsoft’s Windows 11 requirements, and Windows 10 reached end of support in October 2025. We can advise on the realistic options, including a lightweight Linux or ChromeOS Flex installation.
Battery replacement
A new internal battery is fitted and tested through a full charge and discharge. A battery of this age that swells should be replaced before it damages the trackpad or casing.
Price confirmed before work starts
Charging port and power repair
A charger that only works at a certain angle means a worn charging socket. We replace it and test the charging circuit behind it.
We also carry out keyboard and trackpad repair, motherboard repair, liquid damage repair, hinge and casing repair, virus removal on the Alienware 17 R4, along with USB, HDMI and audio port repair, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth card replacement, webcam and speaker faults, BIOS password removal with proof of ownership and data transfer to a new machine.
What we see on the bench
- The graphics chip is soldered to the motherboard, so graphics faults are board-level repairs.
- Several m15, m17 and x-series generations have soldered memory, so check before buying an upgrade.
- Alienware laptops run at high temperatures by design. Thermal compound dries out and a full thermal service makes a measurable difference.
Data recovery from the Alienware 17 R4
The SSD in the Alienware 17 R4 can be removed and imaged on our own equipment, so files can usually be recovered even when the machine will not start.
Estimate the cost with our data recovery calculator, or read about recovering files after a ransomware attack.
Where the Alienware 17 R4 sits in the range
Its nearest relatives in the Alienware laptops range are the newer Alienware 17 R5 (2018). It is the earliest 17.3-inch model of the range that we list.
Questions
Can the SSD or memory in the Alienware 17 R4 be upgraded?
The SSD can be replaced, and most configurations have a second M.2 slot. Memory is in slots on most configurations and can be increased.
My Alienware 17 R4 will not turn on. Is my data lost?
Usually not. The drive is separate from the fault in most cases, and we can remove it and copy your files even if the machine itself is not worth repairing.
How do I get my Alienware 17 R4 to you?
Bring it to our workshop at Unit 1 The Willows, 80 Willow Walk, London SE1 5SY, or call 020 7237 6805 to ask about courier collection. We confirm the price before any work starts.
Why does my Alienware 17 R4 overheat or slow down in games?
Usually dust in the heatsinks and thermal compound that has dried out. A thermal service fixes it in most cases. If temperatures are normal and it still slows down, we test the graphics chip and power delivery.