If I replace a laptop's HDD, can I re-install Windows 8 on it without purchasing a new CD/key?

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baker72

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Dec 18, 2012
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My brother has a laptop (ASUS X55A HPD122J) with a corrupted HDD. I've had no luck in restoring it and making it work again, so he's wanting to replace it. (With this, http://www.amazon.com/Western-Digital-Drives-Notebook-WD5000LPVX/dp/B00C9TECFO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1400096299&sr=8-1&keywords=laptop+hard+drive)

My question is this:
The laptop came pre-installed with Windows 8; if I was to replace the HDD, would I be able to re-install Windows 8 without purchasing a new CD and key? The only thing we have for it is the Windows 8 repair disk and we can't access the HDD.
 
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The product key is built into your laptops motherboard, you don't need to enter anything and it will activate automatically when you are online.

itpro

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Mar 25, 2010
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If your laptop did not come with a restore disk and you did not make a set while it was new, you should be able to contact Asus and order a restore disk for a nominal fee.
 
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