This page sets out the repairs, upgrades and data recovery we carry out on the HP 17-x, with notes on what tends to go wrong and what can and cannot be upgraded. The HP 17-x is a 2016 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-x
- Released
- 2016
- Type
- Laptop
- Screen
- 17.3-inch
- Storage
- 2.5-inch SATA drive
- Memory
- SODIMM slots
HP 17-x repairs and upgrades
Screen replacement
We replace the 17.3-inch panel like-for-like, matching resolution and connector to the part number on the original.
Price confirmed before work starts
Memory upgrade
Most configurations of the HP 17-x have SODIMM memory slots, so memory can be increased. We check what is fitted and the maximum the board supports.
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
We replace the internal battery and check the charging circuit and adapter at the same time. On a 2016 machine a worn battery is the likely cause of short runtime, and we measure its capacity before recommending anything else.
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.
SSD and storage upgrade
The HP 17-x uses a 2.5-inch SATA drive. Replacing a hard drive with an SSD is the biggest speed improvement available for a machine of this age.
Price confirmed before work starts
We also carry out keyboard and trackpad repair, motherboard repair, liquid damage repair, overheating and fan repair, hinge and casing repair, virus removal on the HP 17-x, 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
- Product names like 15-dw or 15s-fq each cover dozens of sub-models. The full product number on the base label is what we order parts against.
- Many shipped with a hard drive or a small SSD, both simple to upgrade.
- HP’s 14, 15 and 17 ranges use plastic hinge mounts that can crack with age.
Data recovery from the HP 17-x
The HP 17-x has a 2.5-inch drive that we remove and image on our own equipment. If the drive is clicking or was dropped, stop powering it on: each attempt can do more damage.
Estimate the cost with our data recovery calculator, or read about recovering files after a ransomware attack.
Where the HP 17-x sits in the range
Its nearest relatives in the HP 14, 15 and 17 laptops range are the newer HP 17-by (2018). Storage differs too: 2.5-inch SATA drive on the HP 17-x, M.2 SSD, replaceable on the HP 17-by. It is the earliest 17.3-inch model of the range that we list.
Questions
Can the SSD or memory in the HP 17-x be upgraded?
The 2.5-inch drive can be replaced with an SSD. Memory is in slots on most configurations and can be increased.
My HP 17-x 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.
Can the HP 17-x run Windows 11?
Not officially. It does not meet Microsoft's processor and security requirements.
How do I get my HP 17-x 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.