XBOX 360: replace drive - how it works

If the drive on your Xbox 360 is defective, you can replace the hardware yourself in a few simple steps. In this guide, we will show you step by step how to replace your old drive with a new one.

Replacing the Xbox 360 drive: You should pay attention to this

• Depending on the XBOX model, a drive from another manufacturer can be installed. In order for the drive replacement to be accepted by the XBOX 360, you need an identical model. Two different models cannot be interchanged. The exact name of the model can be found on the sticker.
• When replacing the hard drives, you must replace the two hard drive boards. With most drives you only have to disconnect a few plug connections. However, it can also happen that the board is soldered. In this case, you also need a soldering iron and a little practice in soldering.
• Alternatively, you can flash your XBOX 360 for the new drive. However, this operation violates Microsoft regulations. Since illegal software could also be played on the console, this process is illegal.

Step 1: remove the Xbox 360 drive

Attention: The tips described here could cause damage to your XBOX 360 due to carelessness. By opening the console yourself, you lose your remaining warranty. If you are unsure, take your XBOX to a suitable repair service.

1. Take the Xbox 360 on hand and turn the console upside down. There is a notch in the front panel on the underside. The cover can be easily removed here.
2. There is also a cover on the top of the console. This consists of two parts and can only be removed with a small screwdriver. Remove the clips from the bezel by using a thin screwdriver to push from the side through the holes in the console.
3. If the top and bottom panels are removed, take the back of the Xbox 360. Use a small, flat screwdriver to press into the right places to loosen the fastenings. You can find the said places above the power connection, for example.
4. If you have opened the Xbox 360 at the back, you can now open the console at the front. To do this, pry out all four plastic connections on the front. It is best to use a flat screwdriver again.
5. Now you can remove the plastic cover from one side. Now remove all 6 screws of the metal cover with a Torx screwdriver. Turn the console over again and remove the small plastic cover that opens the drive. Then you can also remove the second plastic cover of the Xbox 360.
6. Now the Xbox 360 is open to you. Depending on the model, the large drive is attached to the console with at least two cables. Use your fingers to carefully remove the cables. Do not use a tool so that the sensitive hardware is not scratched. The drive may also be glued to the back.

Step 2: replace the Xbox 360 drive

Note: For some drives, the circuit board is also soldered to the drive using cables. In this case, mark the individual cables and loosen the connections with a soldering iron.

1. Turn the drive upside down and remove all four screws on the bottom. Lift off the lid and you will find the green circuit board on top.
2. The board is connected in the middle with two wide ribbon cables. Carefully pull out the cables with your fingers.
3. The board has two holes on the left and right. Black plastic components look out of the holes. If you push it down or out, the board will be released.
4. Carefully lift the circuit board and remove the other two cables on the right and bottom side.
5. Now you have removed the board from the old drive. Repeat the step for the new drive and then reinstall the old board in the new drive.

In the next practical tip, we will show you how you can listen to music while playing on Xbox 360.