Some Dell XPS 15 9500 machines may have a display hinge issue

It seems that a wobbly trackpad is not the only issue affecting multiple XPS 15 9500 units. To recap, some early units shipped with trackpads that would wobble, which hindered their usability. Dell insisted that this issue did not affect functionality despite claims to the contrary by consumers and reviewers, but the company offered to "remediate" any afflicted machines, nonetheless.

Another issue has flown under the radar somewhat though and it concerns the lid of the XPS 15 9500. To be clear, not all devices will be affected by this issue, but there are multiple threads across Dell Support and Reddit that show the same problem. Additionally, a retail unit that we purchased from Dell is also affected.

In short, the display lid of some devices will not remain closed when they are picked up. On our unit, for example, the lid sits flush with the bottom of the device when it is lying on a table. Picking up the machine causes the front of the display to pop open about 1/2 an inch, though. This issue will not affect those who plan to keep their XPS 15 9500 on a desk all day. However, it could allow debris to damage the screen or keyboard if the device is transported in a bag, for example.

Some people have suggested that the issue could be linked to the weight of the FHD panel, which may not be exerting enough downward force to trigger the magnets below the keyboard deck. The FHD panel weighs significantly less than the 4K and touchscreen panel, for reference.

In our experience, squeezing the back of the hinge fixes the issue, but only until the next time we close the lid. This would suggest that the problem lies with a defective hinge, but we cannot conclude that until Dell acknowledges the issue. According to the threads linked below, the company has been replacing affected units, but some replacements have had the same issue. We have contacted Dell privately about the matter and will update the article accordingly.