JackE said:

The hinge is probably the most stressed part of any clamshell device like a laptop. Unless the machine is ruggedized in a metal framework, this is a common issue for all major brands even though most users claim they only gently use the machine and almost never open and close the lid. Google keywords 'broken hinge' and 'brandname' like ACER, APPLE, ASUS, DELL & HP to see the relative number of hits for unruggedized machines for each manufacturer. Getting them fixed labor/parts free inside/outside warranty seems inconsistent at best among all manufacturers. Jack E/NJ

Fully agree "JackE' its not only the securing clamshell points of the bottom case at the hinges, its also the top covers securing points. This is a common problem with Acer laptops and all other brands (as I've experienced for over 10 years with laptops) as they persistently use a method of having plastic top bezels and bottom cases with a moulded protruding plastic securing point(s) with a metal thread insert(s) for the securing down with the metal screws, this is a recipe for disaster as the plastic deteriorates and these metal threaded inserts break and come out, especially at the most stressed part of the clamshell (as you have pointed out). This is just not good enough and Acer and other manufacturers have to do something about this, as laptops do need to be serviced e.g. fans cleaned and replaced and CPU/GPU's need to be repassed over time.

Being a guy that has serviced, fixed and modified laptops and desktops for over 30 years, the clamshell of laptop(s) hinge and casing top/bottom problems have been the most problematic issues with all laptops ever. If I get a laptop that is more than 2 years old I always stress to my customer(s) that opening any laptop is a problematic issue due to 'secure points breakages and of plastic deteriorations' on my service quote, I have a specific clause for this problem as its very common and I take no responsibilities in opening them.