Introduction
The fan is one of the most essential parts in a device such as a computer or game console. The fan helps keep the CPU, GPU, and other vital parts cool. Without a fan your device might overheat and fry. This guide will help you replace the important fan in your Wii U.
Step 1 Remove Stickers Covering Screws
Using a flathead screwdriver, spudger, or tweezers, remove the stickers covering the screws on the bottom of the Wii U and on the side of the Wii U.
Do not try to use your fingernails. It would only hurt.
Step 2 Unscrew All of the Screws on the Back of the Wii U
Remove three Phillips screws with a Phillips #00 screwdriver.
Remove three Tri-Wing screws with a Y1 Tri-Wing screwdriver.
Step 3 Remove the Battery
To remove the battery, unscrew the screw holding it in place with a Phillips #00 screwdriver.
Then pull the battery free.
Once you reassemble the Wii U, you might need to set the date and time.
Step 4 Unscrew the Screws on the Side of the Wii U
Unscrew the two screws on the side of the Wii U near the air vents with a Phillips #00 screwdriver.
EDIT 9/26/16: There are stickers covering these screws too. Remove them.
Step 5 Pull off the Side Cover
Slide the side cover to your right.
Lift the side cover off.
Step 6 Unscrew the Screws Under the Side Cover
Remove three Tri-Wing screws with a Y1 Tri-Wing screwdriver.
Step 7 Removing the Top Cover
Lift the top cover.
Pull the top cover towards you.
Do not lift the top cover up all the way at first! Make sure to pull it towards you (shown in picture #2 and the video on the next step), then lift it up all the way. If you don't remove the top cover this way, U may damage your U. ):
Step 8 Removing the Top Cover (continued)
Play Video
Video of removing the top cover.
Step 9 Removing the Fan
Remove the two Phillips screws securing the fan in place with a Phillips #00 screwdriver.
Use a magnet or a magnetic screwdriver to lift up the screws once they're fully loosened, as seen in the second picture.
Screwdrivers with a black tip usually mean that they're magnetic, as shown with the black arrow in the second picture.
Remove the fan from its socket.
Set the fan's wires free from under the clamp (see the yellow box on picture #3).
Step 10 Removing the Fan (continued)
Play Video
Unplug the fan's power cable by tugging on its wires.
Do not tug the fan.
Do not tug the wires from too far or else the wires/power connector may break.
Author
Reid Fleishman
Member since: 02/12/2016
447 Reputation
1 Guide authored
