Step-by-step

1. 1

   Eject the SIM card tray

   1 min

   Insert a SIM eject tool into the hole next to the SIM tray to pop it out. Remove the SIM tray and set it aside.

2. 2

   Remove the outer rear cover

   2 min

   Insert a plastic opening tool into the notch near the micro-USB port. Pry along the perimeter clips to detach and remove the outer rear shell.

3. 3

   Unscrew the inner frame

   4 min

   Use a Torx T3 screwdriver to remove the 14 perimeter screws holding the inner plastic frame. Organize the screws so they are returned to their original locations.

4. 4

   Detach the inner plastic shield

   3 min

   Wedge a plastic spudger into the seam between the inner frame and outer chassis. Lift the shield off to expose the logic board and battery.

5. 5

   Disconnect the battery flex cable

   2 min

   Pry the battery connector straight up from its motherboard socket using a plastic spudger. Never use metal tools near active battery terminals.

6. 6

   Pry out the battery

   3 min

   Insert a flat spudger under the bottom edge of the battery to break the adhesive bond. Lift the battery out of the frame carefully.

7. 7

   Disconnect internal flex cables

   4 min

   Use tweezers or a spudger to open the ZIF lock tabs and unplug the display, digitizer, and speaker flex cables. Move the cables clear of the logic board.

8. 8

   Lift out the logic board

   3 min

   Remove the single Torx screw holding the motherboard in place. Gently tilt the top edge of the board upward and lift it out of the housing.

9. 9

   Scrub the motherboard with isopropyl alcohol

   8 min

   Dip an ESD soft-bristle brush in 99% isopropyl alcohol and scrub away visible corrosion from both sides of the board. Pay extra attention to connector pins and chips under metal shields.

10. 10

    Clean chassis contacts and ports

    5 min

    Dampen a lint-free swab with high-purity isopropyl alcohol to clean inside the charging port, headphone jack, and housing contacts. Wipe away dissolved residue using a microfiber cloth.

11. 11

    Allow all components to air dry

    15 min

    Set the cleaned logic board and chassis on a dry surface in a well-ventilated area. Ensure all solvent evaporates completely before starting reassembly.

12. 12

    Reinstall the logic board

    5 min

    Lower the logic board back into the chassis and fasten its retaining screw. Reattach the display and digitizer ribbon cables to their respective ZIF sockets.

13. 13

    Reseat the battery and connect power

    3 min

    Press the battery back into its bay using fresh adhesive if necessary. Firmly press the battery cable connector onto its motherboard terminal.

14. 14

    Secure the inner frame and back cover

    4 min

    Align the inner shield over the phone and reinstall the 14 Torx screws until snug. Press the outer rear cover onto the chassis until all clips click shut.