Step-by-step

1. 1

   Turn Off the Device

   1 min

   Press and hold the power button to completely shut down the Kindle. Do not turn it back on or plug it into a charger while wet.

2. 2

   Eject the MicroSD Card

   1 min

   Open the microSD card slot flap on the side of the device. Press down on the card until it clicks, then pull it straight out.

3. 3

   Unsnap the Rear Cover

   5 min

   Insert a plastic guitar pick or opening tool into the seam between the screen assembly and the back cover. Slide the pick around the perimeter to release all plastic clips.

4. 4

   Disconnect the Battery Cable

   2 min

   Locate the battery connector on the motherboard. Use a spudger to gently pry the connector straight up from its socket to cut power.

5. 5

   Remove the Battery

   4 min

   Pry up the battery adhesive pull tabs or use a flat plastic tool under the battery edges to loosen it. Carefully lift the battery out of the frame.

6. 6

   Disconnect Display and Flex Cables

   4 min

   Flip up the ZIF retaining flaps on the screen, digitizer, and daughterboard ribbon cable connectors. Carefully slide each ribbon cable out of its slot.

7. 7

   Unscrew the Motherboard

   3 min

   Use a Phillips #00 screwdriver to remove all screws holding the main logic board to the plastic frame. Keep track of screw locations for reassembly.

8. 8

   Lift Out the Motherboard

   2 min

   Gently lift the main board by its edges and remove it from the tablet chassis. Handle the board only by the edges to avoid damaging micro-components.

9. 9

   Scrub Corrosion from the Circuit Board

   8 min

   Dip a soft-bristled brush into 99% isopropyl alcohol. Gently scrub away all visible liquid residue, mineral deposits, and white corrosion from the motherboard.

10. 10

    Clean Ribbon Cable Terminals

    5 min

    Dip a cotton swab in high-concentration isopropyl alcohol and clean all flex cable contact pins and board sockets. Blow compressed air to remove dislodged debris.

11. 11

    Dry all Internal Components

    15 min

    Allow the motherboard and frame to dry in a well-ventilated area for at least 12 to 24 hours. Ensure no alcohol or liquid moisture remains before reassembly.

12. 12

    Reinstall Mainboard and Reconnect Cables

    5 min

    Set the dry motherboard back into place and tighten the Phillips screws. Insert all ribbon cables securely into their sockets and lock down the ZIF tabs.

13. 13

    Reconnect Battery and Reattach Cover

    3 min

    Place the battery in the housing and press its connector onto the board socket. Snap the rear plastic cover back onto the frame until all edge clips lock.