Inspiron 17 3000 Touchpad Raising

Question

Hi, I have a Dell Inspiron 17 3000 laptop and is approx 18 months old. Recently the edge of the touchpad furthest from the left/right buttons has started to rise from the laptop. Is this a serious issue on what might be happening below the touchpad or is there a way to get this sorted? I am concerned that dust/dirt may get underneath the touchpad and cause a malfunction. Thanks for any help available

ejn63 · Accepted Answer

Yes. It's very possible for the battery to swell while in operation, and relax back to a less swollen configuration when it's powered off (or removed).

It may be there's been some internal damage due to the swelling -- with the cause removed, that should return to normal.

ejn63 · Answer

Remove the bottom cover and examine the battery carefully. You'll likely find it swollen - in which case it needs to be removed and disposed of immediately, and replaced when you can source a new one. It is a safety hazard.

The system will run OK on AC power in the mean time.

U2CAMEB4ME · Answer

Welcome to the Dell Community @Norrie25

I would think somewhere there is a harning about the chance a battery can become a safety hazard.

If not, Dell and every other manufacturer that uses lithium-ion polymer batteries should.

Dell batteries are average compared to others.

Apples are the worst.

Swollen Batteries.PNG

But they also have the best return/exchange policy for swollen batteries.

Best regards,

U2

Norrie25 · Answer

Hi ejn63 Thanks for the quick reply. I'll do as you suggest but if it is a safety hazard shouldn't Dell do a recall or at least inform the market of this issue. Thanks again

Norrie25 · Answer

U2, Thanks for the reply. I will try and contact Dell to see if they do an exchange. Cheers

Norrie25 · Answer

Thanks again ejn63. Did not think that the battery would only last 18 months, but at least I know the problem, Thanks for the link you sent me. Cheers

ejn63 · Answer

See here:

https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc/en-us/000128491/swollen-battery-information-and-guidance

Rechargeable batteries can swell at life end -- get the battery removed to prevent further damage.

As manufacturers increase reliance on slim lithium battery technology, the problems are increasing, not just with notebook computers. Caught early enough, the damage can be mitigated. It's more of an issue with products where you can't see the issue until it's too late -- just look at Hyundai/Kia's battery issues of late.

Norrie25 · Answer

Thanks ejn63 I'll get a new replacement battery fitted I appreciate your quick replies and assistance

Norrie25 · Answer

Hi ejn63

I've removed the battery when I lay it on a flat surface there doesn't seem to be any visible swelling on either side. Even though I have removed the battery the touchpad surface closest to the keyboard is still raising (not as bad though). Does this still point to the battery being defective and needing replaced?

Thanks again for your help

Inspiron

Inspiron 17 3000 Touchpad Raising

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