Spotting a bad capacitor is easy: it’s the one with the bulging top and leaking electrolytic goo. Just check the top of each capacitor to see if it is leaking or bulging. Here are some things to look for on your board that are tell-tale signs of bad capacitors. Identifying Bad Caps: Are you wondering whether your board has the bad capacitor plague? It either dries up on the outer part of the top of the capacitor or leaks on to the circuit board. Repair the motherboard You can replace the bad capacitor yourself (see link below) or have a trained professional do it for you. A visual check is the first thing you should do. Replace the computer If you've been looking for an excuse to get a new computer, you just found one. Only you can prevent forest fires. They can also explain issues that are other wise unexplainable. Bad capacitors can happen on any motherboard, new or old.

Worst-case scenario, the capacitor … Or maybe two or three. The first thing to do is a visual check of the motherboard. A common reason for motherboard failure is blown or bulged capacitors. If yes, the capacitor is blown. The board in the following photo's is an Abit KT7 Athlon motherboard. Check the top of each capacitor to see if it's bulging or leaking, which is an indication the capacitor is blown. Replace the motherboard EBay is a great place to find a refurbished motherboard. A common cause of motherboard issues or failure is bulged or blown capacitors. Most capacitors expel the electrolytic fluid inside them.