Left side of the bottom of my HP Spectre 13-v011dx popped open

[Carie2]

I was working on my computer when I heard a loud pop and the left side of the bottom of my computer opened up.  I see that others on this site have had the same problem.  My warranty is expired, but this shouldn't be happening.  Is there anything I can do to fix it other than take it to a repair shop?

[Huffer]

Maybe a picture? I have not seen reports of structural issues with the Spectre 13-v series. In fact I had one as my personal laptop for almost 3 years and have passed it on to an employee who has continued to use it without issues for another year. The hinge design seems very robust on these "world's thinnest" laptops. In fact, the very high-tech engineering makes me think you will have a hard time finding a tech who can repair it. But I would like to get a look and try to figure out where it has failed and then I will have some thoughts, likely. 

[Carie2]

[Carie2]

This is actually a picture that someone else posted, but my computer looks exactly the same.

[Huffer]

Is that the front edge where you open it or the back edge on the screen/hinge side? Wondering if maybe you are getting a swelling battery? It would not take much swelling to make it pop open. 

[Carie2]

More up in the front.

[Huffer]

I'm suspecting a swollen battery. Have you ever replaced it?

[Carie2]

No, I haven't replaced it and haven't been having any problems with it.  Is it something I need to do immediately?  I live in Egypt and probably can't get a replacement battery here, but can take care of it when I travel to the US in two weeks.

[Huffer]

The battery can swell and still seem to work fine. If the battery swelled and popped the case open but did no plastic damage you will be fine after a battery replacement. If it broke the little plastic clips the hold the top and bottom half of the case together then you have a very expensive fix on your hands. I would sure feel better about the diagnosis with a better picture. The one you posted does very little to help. 

[Carie2]