Step-by-step

1. 1

   Discharge the iPad battery

   1 min

   Ensure the iPad battery is drained below 25% before beginning. This reduces the risk of a dangerous thermal event if the battery is accidentally punctured.

2. 2

   Heat the screen edges

   3 min

   Apply a heated iOpener or heat gun around the outer edges of the iPad display for 2 to 3 minutes. This softens the strong adhesive securing the front glass to the frame.

3. 3

   Attach a suction cup

   2 min

   Place a suction cup near the bottom edge of the display, avoiding the home button cutouts. Pull up gently on the ring to create a slight gap between the glass and frame.

4. 4

   Insert an opening pick

   2 min

   Slide the tip of a thin opening pick into the gap created by the suction cup. Do not insert the pick deeper than 1/4 inch to avoid damaging underlying ribbon cables.

5. 5

   Slice the perimeter adhesive

   5 min

   Slide the opening pick carefully along all four edges of the iPad frame to cut through the screen adhesive. Reheat the glass with an iOpener if you feel significant resistance.

6. 6

   Open the front display panel

   2 min

   Gently swing the glass panel open from the right edge like a book. Prop the display upright against a sturdy box so you do not strain the delicate display flex cables.

7. 7

   Unscrew the display bracket

   3 min

   Use a precision Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws holding the metal display cable shield to the logic board. Set the screws aside in a organized tray.

8. 8

   Disconnect the display flex cables

   2 min

   Use the flat end of a plastic spudger to gently pop the display connector press-fits straight up from their sockets on the logic board. Lift the screen panel clear.

9. 9

   Heat the home button assembly

   2 min

   Apply mild heat to the front side of the screen directly over the home button for 1 minute. This softens the adhesive holding the home button bracket and ribbon in place.

10. 10

    Unscrew the button bracket

    2 min

    Remove the retaining screws securing the metal home button bracket to the back of the front panel using a precision screwdriver.

11. 11

    Pry up the metal bracket

    2 min

    Insert the edge of a spudger underneath the metal home button bracket and gently lift it away from the display glass.

12. 12

    Unstick the button ribbon cable

    3 min

    Carefully slide a thin opening pick under the home button flex cable to separate it from the glass adhesive. Avoid bending or tearing the fragile ribbon.

13. 13

    Remove the home button assembly

    2 min

    Gently press the home button face inward from the front side of the glass until the rubber gasket releases. Remove the assembly from the back of the panel.

14. 14

    Position the replacement home button

    3 min

    Insert the new home button assembly through the back of the glass cutout. Center the button face within the opening so it sits flush.

15. 15

    Secure the bracket and reassemble

    5 min

    Press the ribbon cable adhesive firm, reinstall the metal bracket with its screws, connect the display cables, and apply new frame adhesive to seal the iPad.