this post was submitted on 03 Jan 2026
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ThinkPad

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Hi guys, I couldn't think of a more qualified community for this question.

My trustworthy T470s' USB C port (front right) is failing - only connecting to a charging cable when at a particular angle.

Is there an effective way to swap out that peripheral? I have replaced so many things in it and would not mind one more to keep her alive :)

Currently running via dock and regular charging port but that doesn't fit my lifestyle the same.

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[–] cmnybo@discuss.tchncs.de 7 points 3 weeks ago

You can buy a replacement port for about $10 on ebay, but you will need a good SMD rework station to solder it. The port is soldered directly to the motherboard. Unless you have the equipment and experience to replace it, I would suggest taking it to someone that does.

Luckily the T470 still has the normal charging connector and a dock connector, so you can still use it. The later models can only be charged by USB.

[–] coralof@lemmy.world 5 points 3 weeks ago

I had one fail on my X1C, and the only way to fix it would be to find another USB-C port for that model and solder it onto the board.

[–] etbe@lemmy.ml 1 points 3 weeks ago

The last times I've bought ThinkPad motherboards they were under $100...