A delicate thermal pad covers the SSD. If you're planning on reusing it, be extra careful during this step.

Gently lift the left edge of the thermal pad.

Carefully slide the flat end of a spudger back and forth under the pad while slowly peeling the pad back.

Remove the thermal pad.

Set the thermal pad aside and apply it to the new SSD during reassembly.

If you tore the thermal pad when taking it off, don’t worry—you can still reuse it.