Bottom panel loose

[LaureA]

Hello,

I am not sure if this is the appropriate forum to post this on, but I have an issue with my HP Spectre: since yesterday, the bottom panel has been slightly gaping. I can hear it clipping when I try to close it, but it doesn't hold and comes loose again (see the picture below).

I've found a similar issue on this forum, and the answer said to look for spare parts (I bought this laptop 4 years ago so it is not under warranty anymore) - but I know very little in terms of hardware, and I have no idea what to look for or how to solve this issue. The laptop hasn't been dropped and hasn't moved much until now, but I am planning to travel soon, and I am afraid this will lead to more damage if this panel is still gaping while traveling with the laptop.

I'd be grateful for any advice!

Thanks a lot,

Laure

[MelindaCA1]

Following. This just happened to me as well.  Mine is only 2.5 years old.  I travel with mine, but always in a case and never been dropped. 

[Huffer · Accepted solution]

Likely its a swollen battery which has popped the tabs which hold the bottom and top half of the case together. Also likely replacing the battery will resolve the issue and the case can be reconnected to stay closed. Post back if you want more help. 

[LaureA]

Thanks a lot!

Is it relatively easy to replace the battery by myself? Or would you advise going to a support center?

[Huffer]

I'm going to need the exact model number, but generally it is not very difficult to do nor is the battery very expensive. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_N8BfdCvMRg

[MelindaCA1]

I don't mean to hijack the op's post, but I have the same issue going on.  
My laptop is a HP Spectre x360 Convertible 13-ae0xx. 

Would love the info that OP is asking for as well - specific for my computer issue.  Thank you!