We repair the PCSpecialist Defiance 17 at our workshop in Bermondsey, from cracked screens and worn batteries to board faults and data recovery. The PCSpecialist Defiance 17 is a 2022 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
- Defiance 17
- Released
- 2022
- Type
- Gaming laptop
- Screen
- 17.3-inch
- Storage
- M.2 SSD, two slots on most configurations
- Memory
- SODIMM slots
What we repair on the PCSpecialist Defiance 17
Screen replacement
We replace the 17.3-inch panel with one that matches the original resolution and refresh rate. A cheaper 60Hz panel will physically fit many gaming laptops, and we do not fit one unless you ask for it.
Price confirmed before work starts
Memory upgrade
Most configurations of the PCSpecialist Defiance 17 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
The PCSpecialist Defiance 17 shipped with Windows 11. We repair start-up faults, reinstall Windows cleanly with your files kept, and remove malware.
Battery replacement
A new internal battery is fitted and tested through a full charge and discharge. At this age, short runtime and sudden shutdowns usually point to a worn battery and not a board fault.
Price confirmed before work starts
Charging port and power repair
We replace worn charging sockets and repair USB-C ports and charging circuits at component level. The adapter is tested first, because it is the cheapest thing to be wrong.
Overheating and fan repair
A thermal service covers fresh compound on the processor and graphics chip, new thermal pads where needed and both fans cleaned. It is the usual cure for throttling and loud fans under load.
SSD and storage upgrade
Most configurations of the PCSpecialist Defiance 17 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
We also carry out keyboard and trackpad repair, motherboard repair, liquid damage repair, hinge and casing repair, virus removal on the PCSpecialist Defiance 17, 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.
Known issues with the PCSpecialist laptops range
- Thermal servicing is routine on the gaming models.
- PCSpecialist laptops are built on Clevo and Tongfang chassis. The chassis code on the base label is what we match parts to.
- Most have two memory slots and two M.2 slots.
Data recovery from the PCSpecialist Defiance 17
The SSD in the PCSpecialist Defiance 17 can be removed and imaged on our own equipment, so files can usually be recovered even when the machine will not start. Recent Windows machines often have device encryption or BitLocker switched on. If so we will need the recovery key, which is normally saved in your Microsoft account.
Estimate the cost with our data recovery calculator, or read about recovering files after a ransomware attack.
Where the PCSpecialist Defiance 17 sits in the range
Its nearest relatives in the PCSpecialist laptops range are the older PCSpecialist Cosmos 17 (2021) and the newer PCSpecialist Recoil 17 (2023).
Questions
Can the SSD or memory in the PCSpecialist Defiance 17 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 PCSpecialist Defiance 17 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 PCSpecialist Defiance 17 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 PCSpecialist Defiance 17 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.