Quick Answer: The Chromebook 317 is Acer’s large 17.3″ model, and its bigger chassis means a bigger battery than Acer’s 11–14″ Chromebooks — replacement parts typically run $35–$55. The swap takes 45–60 minutes since the bottom cover has more screws to remove across the larger footprint, but the internal layout itself is still straightforward.
Why the 317’s Battery Job Takes a Bit Longer
- The larger 17.3″ chassis uses more screws around the perimeter of the bottom cover than Acer’s smaller Chromebooks, simply because there’s more case to secure
- A bigger battery cell means a bigger capacity (and a slightly higher replacement cost) than the batteries in Acer’s 11–14″ lineup, like the Chromebook 314
- Despite the extra size, the internal layout keeps the battery in a similarly accessible spot under the cover, so there’s no unusual disassembly beyond the additional screws
Fix Steps
Step 1: Confirm it’s the battery and not the charger
Try a different USB-C charger and cable before assuming the battery is at fault. If charging behavior doesn’t change with a known-good charger, the battery itself is the more likely cause.
Step 2: Check for physical swelling
Look at the bottom cover for bulging, or a unit that rocks instead of sitting flat. A swollen battery should be replaced promptly and handled carefully during removal.
Step 3: Check current battery health
Run the built-in Diagnostics app to see the battery’s health percentage before committing to a replacement — see the Chromebook Diagnostics app guide for how to read the results.
Step 4: Remove the bottom cover
Unscrew all the perimeter screws — there are more of them than on smaller Acer models — then work a plastic pry tool evenly around the edge rather than forcing one corner.
Step 5: Disconnect and remove the old battery
Disconnect the battery connector from the motherboard first, then remove the mounting screws or peel back the adhesive strips holding the cell, depending on which method this unit uses.
Step 6: Install the new battery and calibrate
Seat the new battery, reconnect it, reassemble the case, and run a full charge-and-discharge cycle so ChromeOS recalibrates the battery percentage readout accurately.
Repair or Replace?
At $35–$55 for parts, a battery swap remains one of the more affordable Chromebook repairs even on a larger model like the 317. It’s almost always worth doing if the rest of the laptop works well and it hasn’t passed its Acer Chromebook AUE date.
FAQ
Is the 317’s battery interchangeable with smaller Acer Chromebooks?
No, battery size and connector layout differ across Acer’s Chromebook lineup. Always confirm the exact model before ordering a replacement cell.
Why does the 317 have more screws than smaller models?
Its larger 17.3″ chassis simply has more edge to secure, so Acer uses more fasteners around the bottom cover than on 11–14″ models.
Can I keep using the 317 with a swollen battery?
No, a swollen lithium battery is a safety risk and should be replaced promptly rather than left in use.
