How do I add new RAM to my laptop without issues

I’ve been trying to upgrade the RAM on my Lenovo LOQ 15IRX9, but every time I add a new stick in the second slot, the laptop won’t boot up (just shows a black screen). I’ve tried different RAM brands like Samsung and Kingston, but none have worked. I’m worried there might be an issue with the slot since one of the RAM sticks was bent initially. I’ve attached some pictures for reference.

Have you tried moving the original RAM to the other slot to test if the slot itself is defective?

Porter said:
Have you tried moving the original RAM to the other slot to test if the slot itself is defective?

There’s not enough room to switch the RAM without potentially voiding my warranty :sweat_smile:

@Taylor
I decided to take the risk, and it looks like the second RAM slot is indeed problematic.

Taylor said:
@Taylor
I decided to take the risk, and it looks like the second RAM slot is indeed problematic.

Are you sure it’s the slot? Sometimes it’s about how you insert the RAM into that specific slot.

@Taylor
That’s odd, usually, if RAM’s upgradeable, you should be able to access both slots easily. Could you show another angle?

Hollis said:
@Taylor
That’s odd, usually, if RAM’s upgradeable, you should be able to access both slots easily. Could you show another angle?

Those covers are quite common, and warranty claims are rarely denied over a broken seal, which is illegal in many places.

@Taylor
Perhaps try with two new sticks of the same brand and size to see if that resolves the issue.

@Taylor
It sounds like there might be an issue with how you’re inserting or removing the RAM. Maybe check out some tutorials on YouTube. Also, remember that the first boot with new RAM can take longer because of memory training.

@Taylor
Umm, it seems you might have already voided your warranty by opening it up… My mistake, I was wrong. Just trying to correct my error.

Vale said:
@Taylor
Umm, it seems you might have already voided your warranty by opening it up… My mistake, I was wrong. Just trying to correct my error.

Actually, opening your device doesn’t necessarily void the warranty, but visible damage caused during opening might.

@Cleo
I see, thanks for updating me. I’m in the EU, and the regulations here are indeed different.

Vale said:
@Cleo
I see, thanks for updating me. I’m in the EU, and the regulations here are indeed different.

Recent rulings confirm that standard maintenance by the user, such as upgrading RAM, does not void the warranty. Here’s a link to an article explaining this in more detail.

@Kai
Thanks, that’s really helpful!

Vale said:
@Taylor
Umm, it seems you might have already voided your warranty by opening it up… My mistake, I was wrong. Just trying to correct my error.

I checked with support, and they assured me as long as I don’t tamper with any seals, the warranty remains intact.

@Taylor
Anti-warranty stickers can’t legally void your warranty in the US, and likely in the EU as well. They’re just a deterrent.

@Taylor
That’s great to hear. I recently upgraded my own laptop significantly. I hope your issue gets resolved just as well!

Just a thought, but have you checked for a BIOS update? Sometimes they fix hardware compatibility issues.

Teo said:
Just a thought, but have you checked for a BIOS update? Sometimes they fix hardware compatibility issues.

Yes, I’ve made sure the BIOS is up to date. Thanks for the suggestion!

Remember, the first boot with new RAM can take a bit longer. Did you make sure the RAM stick clicked into place?