Step-by-step

1. 1

   Remove the rear cover

   1 min

   Insert a plastic opening tool into the notch near the power button. Pry up gently to unsnap and remove the back cover.

2. 2

   Extract the battery

   1 min

   Use your finger or a plastic opening tool to lift the battery out from the bottom recess. Disconnecting power immediately prevents further short circuits.

3. 3

   Remove SIM and microSD cards

   2 min

   Push the microSD card inward until it clicks, then pull it out. Slide the SIM card out of its slot using your thumb or tweezers.

4. 4

   Unscrew the midframe

   3 min

   Use a Phillips #00 screwdriver to remove the nine screws securing the plastic midframe to the display assembly.

5. 5

   Detach the midframe

   3 min

   Insert a plastic opening tool between the chrome bezel and the display assembly. Pry around the perimeter to release the plastic clips and remove the midframe.

6. 6

   Disconnect motherboard flex cables

   4 min

   Use a plastic spudger to gently pop up the press-fit connectors for the display, front camera, earpiece assembly, and USB dock board.

7. 7

   Remove the motherboard screw

   1 min

   Remove the single black Phillips #00 screw securing the motherboard near the top right corner.

8. 8

   Lift out the motherboard

   2 min

   Carefully grasp the top edge of the motherboard and lift it out of the chassis. Ensure no ribbon cables snag during removal.

9. 9

   Inspect for corrosion

   3 min

   Examine both sides of the motherboard and connectors using a magnifying glass. Look for white, green, or black oxidation caused by liquid exposure.

10. 10

    Scrub the motherboard with alcohol

    10 min

    Submerge the motherboard in high-concentration isopropyl alcohol. Gently scrub away all visible corrosion and mineral deposits using a soft toothbrush.

11. 11

    Clean the display chassis and connectors

    5 min

    Dip cotton swabs in isopropyl alcohol and carefully wipe down the remaining internal connectors, battery contacts, and frame cavity.

12. 12

    Dry all components completely

    15 min

    Set the cleaned motherboard and chassis on a lint-free cloth. Allow them to air-dry completely for at least two hours before reassembly.

13. 13

    Reseat the motherboard

    2 min

    Lower the dried motherboard back into the display chassis. Make sure no flex cables are trapped underneath.

14. 14

    Secure the motherboard

    1 min

    Reinstall the single black Phillips #00 screw at the top right of the motherboard to anchor it in place.

15. 15

    Reconnect all flex cables

    3 min

    Align and press down firmly on each ribbon cable connector until it snaps into place on the motherboard.

16. 16

    Reattach the midframe

    4 min

    Align the midframe over the body and press along the edges until all perimeter clips snap securely. Reinstall the nine Phillips #00 screws.

17. 17

    Reinstall cards, battery, and cover

    2 min

    Insert the SIM and microSD cards into their slots. Place the battery into its bay, align the back cover, and press firmly around the edges to seal it.