Introduction
Follow this guide to replace the ethernet port flap (aka RJ45 flap) in your Lenovo ThinkPad T16 Gen 3 laptop.
A flap that's in need of replacement may no longer hold an ethernet cable in place, or has simply broken off.
The Lenovo part number for the RJ45 flap assembly is 5CB1M21645 for the WLAN model or 5CB1M21651 for the WWAN model. This guide features the latter, but the process is identical for the former.
Tools
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Completely shut down your laptop (don't just put it in sleep mode) and disconnect all cables.
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Flip the laptop upside-down, and rotate it so the screen hinge faces towards you.
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Insert your fingernail or an opening pick into the gap between the base cover and keyboard deck, next to one of the screen hinges.
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Pry up the base cover until the clips unfasten.
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Grasp the base cover along the screen hinge edge and lift slowly to unfasten the remaining clips.
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Lift and remove the base cover.
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Use a Phillips screwdriver to fully loosen the two captive screws securing the battery connector.
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Lift the edge of the battery with the connector to disconnect it.
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Remove the battery
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Slide the plastic tabs on the long edge of the battery into their recesses in the frame.
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Lower the battery into place so the connector goes over its socket.
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Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the three screws securing the ethernet flap:
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Two 8 mm‑long screws on either side of the RJ45 connector
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One 4 mm‑long screw next to the USB port
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Compare your new replacement part to the original part—you may need to transfer remaining components from the new part before you install it.
To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.
Repair didn’t go as planned? Try some basic troubleshooting, or ask our Answers community for help.
