Chosen Solution
So one day, I set down my computer on the table, come back and turn it on. I get a second of display, and it shuts back off, and the docking port starts to smoke. Turns out a piece of tomato of all things got into the docking port and was shorting it out. So I disconnect the power and the battery and clean the docking port with some rubbing alcohol, dry it thoroughly, and let it sit overnight. I discover that it works fine unless you try to put the charger in, then the docking port and only the docking port smokes. There is now a divot in it and there was a tiny amount of melted plastic in there. I never use the docking port. Is it time to replace the motherboard or is there a workaround or way to charge without that port smoking? For reference, my motherboard model is HP 686971-001. EDIT: I just realized this is my first post on this site. I knew about ifixit and really like and support what you guys do. Thanks! Update (10/19/2020) UPDATE: I finally ordered the replacement mobo, thank you guys for all the help! Update (11/07/2020) Well, sure enough, I went in, replaced the motherboard, and now it works and charges fine. Thanks everyone for your help in this! I actually ended up buying the ifixit toolkit!
Claims to be a good working MB Let the buyer beware!
