- Fix PCs part removal starts at the workbench — PCs can't be repaired on random counters.
- Unscrew first, then pull: most parts require holding left-click on each screw and following the motion.
- Detach cables like PSU and front-panel connectors before pulling power-hungry parts like GPUs.
- Reseat and verify: screws and cables must be fully seated or the part won't register as installed.
- Run the benchmark after reassembly to confirm the repair before delivering to the customer.
How to Remove Broken Parts in Fix PCs
Removing broken parts is the heart of the repair loop in Fix PCs. Once you've accepted a customer order and diagnosed the fault, you carry the PC to your workbench, open the side panel, and physically unscrew and unplug the failing component before a replacement can go in. Getting this step right keeps your repair turnover fast and avoids failed benchmark tests.
The three things that block part removal in most jobs:
| Blocker | Where It Appears | How to Clear It |
|---|---|---|
| Unremoved screws | GPU, PSU, motherboard, side panel | Hold left-click on each screw and follow the on-screen twist motion |
| Attached power cable | GPU, PSU, drives | Click the connector and pull in the indicated direction |
| PC not on workbench | Anywhere outside the bench | Carry the PC to the bench and press E to place it |
You can only open the build view and remove parts from a PC placed on your workbench. Trying to interact with a PC on a shelf or counter won't let you disassemble it — carry it over first.
Controls You Need Before Removing Parts
Every part removal in Fix PCs comes down to a handful of controls. Master these and disassembly becomes muscle memory.
| Action | Control | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Move / look | WASD + mouse | Navigating your shop and workbench |
| Interact / pick up | Left-click | Grabbing parts, holding screws |
| Place / talk to NPCs | E | Setting the PC on the bench, accepting orders |
| Open inventory | Tab | Finding your replacement part |
| Drop held item | Q | Clearing your hands mid-job |
| Cycle tools | Scroll wheel / number keys | Switching to the screwdriver |
Certain parts won't respond to clicks until the screwdriver is your active tool. Cycle to it with the scroll wheel before attempting to unscrew anything.
Step-by-Step: Removing a Broken Component
Follow this sequence every time you open a customer's PC. It works for GPUs, PSUs, RAM, storage drives, and motherboards alike.
Diagnose and identify the broken part
Use the diagnostic tool on the customer's PC before opening the case. The scan points you to the failing component — a dead GPU, faulty RAM, a failing PSU, or simply a loose cable. Never guess; swapping the wrong part wastes inventory.
Place the PC on the workbench
Carry the PC to your workbench and press E to set it down, then click it to open the build view. From here you can inspect every installed component.
Remove the side panel
Hold left-click on each panel screw and follow the twist motion. Set the panel aside — you'll reattach it at the end of the job.
Unplug attached cables
Click the power or data connector attached to the broken part and pull in the indicated direction. GPUs and PSUs almost always have a cable holding them in.
Unscrew and pull the broken part
With the screwdriver active, unscrew each mounting screw on the faulty component, then click the part to slide it out. Keep track of screws — some jobs reuse them during reassembly.
Install the replacement and verify
Slot in the correct replacement from your inventory (Tab), screw it firmly into place, reconnect the cables, reattach the side panel, and run the benchmark. A passing score confirms the fix.
If a component refuses to come out, you've almost certainly missed a screw or left a cable attached. Recheck the mounting points and connectors — forcing it further does nothing until both are cleared.
Common Removal Problems and Fixes
Part won't detach
- Cause: remaining screws or an attached PSU cable
- Fix: recheck every mounting screw, then trace cables from the part to the PSU
PC won't power on after reassembly
- Cause: PSU not connected to motherboard, or PSU switch off
- Fix: reconnect the motherboard power cable and flip the PSU switch
Ticket won't complete
- Cause: wrong part tier installed
- Fix: compare installed parts against the ticket requirements line by line
No cash for replacement parts
- Cause: early-game cash shortage
- Fix: take loose-cable and diagnostic-only jobs first, or sell spare parts you removed
A passing benchmark is your proof of repair. If it fails, something is still loose — reopen the case, check screw seating and cable connections, and run it again before delivering.
Speed Tips and Removal Checklist
Removing parts quickly is where hourly income comes from. Better tools speed up screwing and unplugging — a quality screwdriver and upgraded diagnostic gear are among the best early investments, and a second workbench lets you run two PCs at once.
Every Part Removal Job:
- Run the diagnostic scan before opening the case
- Place the PC on the workbench and open the build view
- Unscrew the side panel and set it aside
- Unplug all cables attached to the broken part
- Remove every mounting screw before pulling the part
- Install, screw, and reconnect the replacement
- Pass the benchmark before returning the PC
FAQ
Q: How do I remove broken parts in Fix PCs?
Place the customer's PC on your workbench, open the build view, unscrew the side panel, unplug any cables attached to the faulty component, then unscrew and click the part to remove it. Install the replacement, reattach everything, and run the benchmark to verify.
Q: Why won't a part come out when I click it?
Almost always because a screw is still in place or a power cable is still connected. Recheck each mounting screw with the screwdriver active, then trace the cables from the part to the PSU and unplug them before pulling.
Q: Do I need to keep the screws after removing a part?
Yes — some jobs require reusing screws when reseating parts, and reassembly needs fully seated screws before a component registers as installed. Dropping or losing them can stall a ticket.
Q: Can I remove parts from a PC that isn't on the workbench?
No. The build view only opens for PCs placed on your workbench. Carry the PC over and press E to set it down before attempting any disassembly.