iPhone 3GS GPS Antenna Replacement

Zitat von Turbo Fredriksson:

What are the flex cables #1, #2 and #3 for?

Aparently #3 is 'Earpiece & Proximity Sensor'.

Zitat von Turbo Fredriksson:

Aparently #3 is 'Earpiece & Proximity Sensor'.

Found the thread: What Ribbon "1" and "2" and "3" do?

1. Ribbon #1: Runs the LCD

2. Ribbon #2: Runs the digitizer

3. Ribbon #3: Earspeaker and various sensors on the iPhone face

Note that The connectors have a rubber-like Top surface. Make surre The spudger is inserted underneath that rubber piece. To disconnect, The connector ha to lifted upwards from the PC-Board (i.e. Orthogonally from the electronics board, as opposed to being moved sideways). holds true for all of those connectors, except for the one with the flip-tab.

martinkoschel -

I had more joy using a home-made spudger from a bamboo skewer. Being thinner, it can release the connectors from the end rather than a side or corner. (I also tried all the different spudgers made by Menda Tools.)

cheongi -

I already gave up on this step:-)

becky - 07/08/14

Schritt 6

Rotate the display assembly up until it is roughly vertical. This will allow easier access for disconnecting the remaining cables.
Use a spudger to disconnect the black ribbon cable labeled "2". (Cable 2 is for the capacitative touch panel)

At step 5 my ribbon crumbled. I had nothing left to replace. I now have a dead spot on the screen.

billsly -

Schritt 7

Please note: You may find on some non-American (Chinese, European) versions of the 3G that the flip up plastic tab does not exist. In this case you would slide the ribbon cable towards the screen until it is removed. When you assemble it, you would apply pressure to the ribbon to insert it back into the ribbon "socket."
Some iPhones may have the connector colors reversed (black plastic tab, white connector) for connector "3". Make sure you're flipping up the tab properly, otherwise you may damage the connector.
Use a spudger to flip up the white plastic tab holding the ribbon cable "3" in place. The white tab will rotate up 90 degrees, releasing the ribbon cable.
Slide the black ribbon cable out of its connector, and remove the display assembly from the iPhone.

On my 3G, the piece that flips up on the #3 connector was black and the connector itself was white, seemingly opposite of the pictures. I mistakenly tried to pry up the wrong piece, but fortunately didn't do too much damage before I realized this. My phone was replaced on warranty in February so this must be the case in some newer 3G's.

lolsen4 -

Zitat von lolsen4:

On my 3G, the piece that flips up on the #3 connector was black and the connector itself was white, seemingly opposite of the pictures. I mistakenly tried to pry up the wrong piece, but fortunately didn't do too much damage before I realized this. My phone was replaced on warranty in February so this must be the case in some newer 3G's.

Thanks for the heads-up. I added a note so that people are aware that the colors may be reversed.

Miroslav Djuric -

That flip tab on the #3 connector split in half and came off completely. Be careful. And if anyone knows where to buy a replacement flip tab, that'd be cool too :)

cliffcurtis -

I should also note that I used a little flat head screwdriver when lifting the flip tab and the narrow pressure point is what cause it to split. Should of used a spudger.

cliffcurtis -

I bought my black iPhone a full housing white cover off ebay. No phone shops seem to be able to change it for me.

If I follow this guide, will I be able to pull my phone apart, change the covers and put it back together?

That is, once I pull the phone apart, will it work properly once I put it back together again?

kristymic -

Zitat von kristymic:

I bought my black iPhone a full housing white cover off ebay. No phone shops seem to be able to change it for me.

If I follow this guide, will I be able to pull my phone apart, change the covers and put it back together?

That is, once I pull the phone apart, will it work properly once I put it back together again?

Yes, if you take care and follow the instructions to the letter.

marmalade -

How on earth do I get the black ribbon cable back into its connector???

Cor Berkelaar -

Zitat von Cor Berkelaar:

How on earth do I get the black ribbon cable back into its connector???

Cor, You have to slide the little bar on the connector away from the body of the connector before you can insert the ribbon cable into it. I know it's tight quarters, but even my meat hooks were able to finally get it inserted. The 'trick' is that once you have inserted the cable into the body of the connector, quickly slide the bar back toward the body as this will lock the cable into the connector. I hope this is helpful.

David

dheady -

Is there a way of replacing the connector?

i have torn the top of the connector......... would that be the reason that the iPhone would not start even though the ribbon is in the connector and fastened secured with the white plastic tab is down.

Vishal Vaidya -

I HAVE DONE IT GUYS SO THANK YOU.

Zitat von Vishal Vaidya:

Is there a way of replacing the connector? i have torn the top of the connector......... would that be the reason that the iPhone would not start even though the ribbon is in the connector and fastened secured with the white plastic tab is down.

Vishal Vaidya -

Zitat von Vishal Vaidya:

Is there a way of replacing the connector?

You could replace it. That's what I'll have to do. Luckily my brother is great with soldering surface mounted components.

But if you had to ask if it can be replaced, you don't have knowledge to do it yourself! It's VERY difficult! Look among your friends or the 'Net. I found quite a lot of forums where they talk about the difficulty on replacing SMD's. Just mail one of them that seem to know what they're doin'...

http://www.earth2k.com/fpc-ribbon/

Zitat von cliffcurtis:

if anyone knows where to buy a replacement flip tab, that'd be cool too :)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vie...

I'm currently waiting for mine... :)

[quote|I'm currently waiting for mine... :)[/quote]

And my younger brother managed to replace it with only a couple of minutes whining about it's size :).

Works just fine now (exept that I can't seem to turn the darn thing off, even though I've also replaced the button harness!)

I have torn the top of the connector too and the iPhone is not starting.. Was that the reason? Did it work after replacing the connector?

Zitat von Vishal Vaidya:

Is there a way of replacing the connector? i have torn the top of the connector......... would that be the reason that the iPhone would not start even though the ribbon is in the connector and fastened secured with the white plastic tab is down.

veloudo -

Zitat von lolsen4:

On my 3G, the piece that flips up on the #3 connector was black and the connector itself was white, seemingly opposite of the pictures. I mistakenly tried to pry up the wrong piece, but fortunately didn't do too much damage before I realized this. My phone was replaced on warranty in February so this must be the case in some newer 3G's.

Maybe it adds Value to the explanation to say that the piece that needs to be flipped up is located on the opposite side of where the ribbon cable exits the connector. It needs to flip upwards towards the ribbon cable.

My confusion was to identify which connector I have in my phone, since everything in there is so tiny that it is hard to identify which is which. Maybe a zoom-in on the connector with the tab flipped up would be a good addition to the instructions also.

martinkoschel -

I accidentally lost the black plastic tab (mine was black) when I was removing the ribbon cable. I managed to get the ribbon cable back into the white connector and the phone seems to be working fine. Is this going to be a problem?

Mike -

Note: You cannot slide the black ribbon connector back into place unless the lock is flipped open (up)--see the instructions on replacing a broken screen for images)

czubko -

The tab (black in my case) is the thin horizontal plastic piece opposite where the ribbon is inserted. Use the spudger in the center, approaching from the bottom side of the phone, and it flips up easily.

larry -

Be VERY careful when working with ribbon 3. I thought I was but when I got the phone back together the earpiece didn't work. While doing research to find out why, I discovered that ribbon 3 is very delicate and easy to damage. I'm now waiting for a new one... if I can't fix it, I'll have to get a new phone since I can't see myself hearing only via Bluetooth or speakerphone.

MarySC -

When re-inserting the #3 connector how much force does it take to get the connector fully inserted? How can I tell whether it is fully inserted?

slessard -

Be very careful, in some cases the ribbon damages. After this damage the proximity sensor won't work anymore.

JanWillem -

I think that this is where the problem is. I must have one of the unique (Chinese) versions and while trying to lift up, I should have been sliding back. It is too difficult to see. Mine broke off and crumbled and now the screen has a dead spot.

billsly -

That step also had me thinking & reading for quite a while. Maybe a close-up picture of the connector might be helpful, seems that a lot of people screw up badly here.

HaJo Schatz -

My American 3GS white connector did not flip open. It split into 3 little pieces of white plastic when I tried lifting it with the spudger. The plastic seemed very brittle; the phone is 4 years old. Amazingly to me, I was able to slide the flex tail back in to position and it made all the necessary electrical contacts (at least for the time being). Wi-fi cable #6 was not properly seated after first assembly, but everything is working now! Thank for the help.

Dennis Smith

denniskristen -

I strongly recommend that you review Step 7 of the 3GS 'Display,' 'Front Panel' or 'Front Panel Assembly' guide. As of this date (June 2015), only those three guides include a photo of a mock-up of Connector 3 that will provide you with detail that will help you avoid damaging that fragile connector.

jpa - 22/06/15

Schritt 8

Insert your SIM eject tool or a paper clip into the hole next to the headphone jack.
Press down on the tool until the SIM card tray pops out.
Grasp the SIM card tray and slide it out of the iPhone.

Can you take the SIM card out before you start the procedure?

alex -

This is the hardest step of all :)

Modima65 - 11/10/14

Schritt 9

Use a spudger to disconnect the ribbon cable labeled "4."

Note! Be EXTRA careful with this cable #4. Twist and brakes easily!

taneliteittinen -

What if I have one of those thin film screen protectors applied, would the suction cup peel it right off instead of lifting the screen up?

zneumann66 -

Schritt 10

Use a spudger to disconnect the ribbon cable labeled "5."

Schritt 11

Use a spudger to disconnect the ribbon cable labeled "6."
If you have an iPhone 3GS, refer to the second picture and use a spudger to disconnect the ribbon cable labeled "7."
Be certain that the connectors on the ribbon cables are perfectly aligned with the sockets on the mother board before applying pressure. This may require a magnifying glass or jewelers' loupe.

Those "6" and "7" antenna connectors are quite fragile.

Be very careful when assembling not to force the connector down; It should click actually quite easily once it's placed properly.

If you try to force the connection, it might easily be deformed, which would really be a pity.

Actually, I had to apply some pressure to #7 to get it back in place - I tried not to force it as advice above said, but it wouldn't go in. The pressure wasn't too strong, but it doesn't just slide right in.

iluxan -

I think the steps to replace the connectors 6 & 7 should be emphasized because of the size/fragility of the connectors.

satsho -

I agree with the others that cable 6 and 7 are very fragile and can be difficult to reattach. I was able to get #7 back on but #6 just wouldn't attach. I put too much pressure on it so now I have a cell phone without WiFi or GPS. I would rate the repairability of this phone lower than it is because of the 50-50 chance of flattening these connectors. My 3GS is now effectively an iPod, but with a new battery.

plink53 -

In hindsight I should have read over the whole recipe twice and looked at the comments before starting but I didn't because I thought I could do it and was impatient. I agree that there should be warning at the top to draw attention to the multiple wires that could be damaged when you do this.

My antenna doesn't work now and there is a small metal part that looks like a letter p that fell out of my phone. I thought it wouldn't matter till my friend said it might attach the antenna. Does anybody know where it is supposed to go?

tumaru -

The small metal part that looks like a "p" is a clip that holds the camera in place. You need to put it in place before you replace the screw immediately next to the camera. It's mentioned in step 12 of many of the guides.

Dieter Groll - 23/05/14

#6 would not reattach. I spent an hour trying to reattach that ONE thing. I finally had to give up. What a complete waste of time.

d10boe - 16/05/14

I had edited this step months ago to add a warning to make VERY certain that the connector on the ribbon cable for #6 is centered on its mating connector on the motherboard before applying pressure to it. If it's not centered and you apply pressure you will very likely destroy both halves of the connector. The half attaced to the ribbon is replaced with the wifi antenna- very inexpensive. However, the half on the motherboard is tiny and soldered on. You'll need to get someone equipped to repair circuit boards.

When I ruined my #6 I ended up getting another phone. If you don't repair it, your phone will work but your wifi will not because #6 is the wifi connector.

Tom Brandolini - 17/05/14

Months ago I wrote and placed an edit into step 10 which read something like this:

" Be very certain that the #6 connector half on the ribbon cable is perfectly concentric with the #6 connector half on the mother board before applying pressure. This may require a magnifying glass or jewelers' loupe. Failure to ensure proper alignment of these connector halves prior to applying pressure will destroy both connector halves."

At some point someone removed this much needed edit. WHY???????

Tom Brandolini - 17/05/14

"concentric" is not the right word. Try "parallel and aligned".

Veloaficionado - 02/08/14

No, actually concentric is exactly correct. When the center of the circle in the ribbon is exactly over the center of the connector on the board the respective circles of the connector halves are CONCENTRIC and properly aligned.

Tom Brandolini - 03/08/14

Schritt 12

Remove the following 8 screws:
Five 2.3 mm Phillips #00 screws with partial threads securing the logic board to the rear case.
Two 2.3 mm Phillips #00 screws with full threads securing the logic board and camera.
One 2.9 mm Phillips #00 screw from beneath the "Do not remove" sticker.
Note for re-assembly:
The screw that goes next to the camera (bottom right orange highlighted screw) also has a metal strip that holds the camera in place.
Remember to put this strip back in place before you insert the 2.3 mm Phillips #00 screw with full thread next to the camera

One of the two full thread screws holds a small retention clip not shown in this diagram to keep the camera in place (3G model). Remove this clip when removing the screws.

jake2 -

Please note that iFixit supplied screwdriver is way too big for these tiny screws, you'll need a smaller one like the ones used to repair wrist watches!

The good side is that iFixit's screwdriver is magnetized, a bonus when working with such small parts.

paolo -

while re assembling i couldnt for the life of me figure out where the metal plate thing off the camera went until i saw the gap for it (i had spent about half an hour trying to put it in)

jjw123 -

My Camera is not working anymore =( going to open my iphone once again...

l4ci -

I found that after putting the battery in place and reattaching the logic board with the screws I had to press down a little bit to get the screws to reach because the battery contacts kept the logic board from settling in this tension gives positive contact between board and battery.

Bill -

I am unable to remove the screw that holds the camera in place. I'm afraid I am stripping the screw head. Any advice?

libchis -

My battery had swollen - so much so that the back cover was bulged. So when I was removing screws, I was really careful and did every-other-one first on one side, and then the other, then back to the first side, etc. Even in doing that, one of the screws went flying...somewhere...I never did find it, but it hasn't seemed to effect anything. And when I do find it I know I can get back in my phone to put it back.

djjdohio - 10/02/15

I didn't have a removable screw in the bottom right with a metal strip, there was a fastening in there without a Philips type depression, but the camera came out with the board. Not sure if the last person in here before me broke something, as there was an aftermarket battery in the phone with no adhesive. However the camera works after putting it all back together

panchocole - 04/01/17

Schritt 13

Use a spudger to gently pry the camera up and out of its housing in the rear case.
The camera cannot be removed entirely yet because it's connected to the bottom of the logic board.

After removing the 2.3 mm Phillips #00 screw attached to the camera a small retaining clip may be present.

Take note of its position and orientation for later reinstallation.

John Zemko -

As mentioned, some 3g phones there is a small metal clip holding down the camera (held in place by the screw there). Be sure it doesn't fly out or fall into the phone workings. Fine point tweezers would help here, to take it out and to put back in place during re-assembly.

Tim -

3G and 3GS camera enclosure: As I was transplanting a 3G cover onto a 3GS, I realized as I was trying to re-assemble the camera that it would not fit: the 3GS camera does not fit in the 3G enclosure. Luckily, you can remove just the camera enclosure from the 3GS and transplant it to the 3G. It's dirty, I broke the ring, I transplanted some of the double face tape... but in the end it worked.

chuvux -

There were many places where I wished there were clearer instructions on putting it back together; this was a big one. It was very difficult to get the camera back in place. I heard a snap when mine went into place.

atlemar -

Schritt 14

Use a spudger to gently pry up the end of the logic board closest to the dock connector.
There is a small golden grounding tab on logic board adjacent to the 'do not remove sticker'. Be VERY careful this does not snag on the side of the case when prying up the logic board; it breaks easily. If you have signal problems after removing the logic board, check this ground tab.
If the board won't lift up, double check to make sure all the screws securing the logic board have been removed.

Even after the eight screws are remove, the board won't lift up easily. That is because the golden clip nearby the "do not remove sticker". In the picture above, it simply jumped out for no reason, while I had to use a tweezer to make it out...

wandonye -

When removing the logic board, a slight push towards the top of the phone, will "unclip" the bottom edge of the logic board near the "Do Not Remove" screw.

When reinserting the logic board, there is a tab in the top edge of the rear shell case that the edge of the logic board goes under. It is the edge closest to the camera.

Without this "comfortable" fit, you won't be able to get the SIM in.

The camera itself also has an element of "comfortable" Fit.

Be careful when putting the circuit board back in also... the golden grounding tab is very easy to break...

rclyons -

If the “Do not remove”-sticker is damaged it’s a warranty thing I suppose? It doesn’t have any function, does it?

Stefan Theurer - 07/11/18

Schritt 15

Slide the logic board towards the dock connector and out of the iPhone.
When replacing the logic board after installing battery, connect the camera to the logic board before inserting it into the case. Then make sure to set the top section of the logic board (where the SIM tray is) in place before settling the rest of the board in place. This is important, as sometimes the SIM card slot will not align into place. Once the top section is in place, the bottom section can be maneuvered into place. You will know the logic board is correctly installed when the SIM tray is aligned with the opening in the iPhone case and the camera module seats neatly into its place.

When reversing directions for reassembly, the logic board needs to be clipped into the clips on the side.

Lenore -

Zitat von Lenore:

When reversing directions for reassembly, the logic board needs to be clipped into the clips on the side.

++

Although I would say "needs to be slipped under the clips on the side". The most obvious clip is next to the camera, facing south (if the camera is in the NE corner). There is a corresponding clip on the opposite side of the north end the logic board, facing east (a bit east of the #6 ribbon cable).

It's still possible to get all the screws back in with the logic board above the clips (trust me), but it's a serious barnus because the SIM card holder won't fit back in and the camera will be pointing a bit askew ... and you'll have to pull all the screws back out and figure out what you did wrong (and why you had a naggling suspicion the logic board wasn't placed quite right).

I would recommend sliding in the SIM card tray *before* putting any screws back, just to make sure.

johnhart -

Slipping the SIM card in first is a helpful suggestion.

My motherboard actually was not quite lined-up as mentioned, and so after the SIM didn't fit, I was able to pull and reposition the motherboard properly before proceeding.

Zitat von johnhart:

++

Although I would say "needs to be slipped under the clips on the side". The most obvious clip is next to the camera, facing south (if the camera is in the NE corner). There is a corresponding clip on the opposite side of the north end the logic board, facing east (a bit east of the #6 ribbon cable).

It's still possible to get all the screws back in with the logic board above the clips (trust me), but it's a serious barnus because the SIM card holder won't fit back in and the camera will be pointing a bit askew ... and you'll have to pull all the screws back out and figure out what you did wrong (and why you had a naggling suspicion the logic board wasn't placed quite right).

I would recommend sliding in the SIM card tray *before* putting any screws back, just to make sure.

ianwright -

When putting it back together, it helps with alignment to put in the SIM Card tray. This beats having all your screws back in and finding out it's misaligned. Put the logic board 5/6 the way in, and insert the SIM Card tray like normal. Allow it to guide your logic board into the proper place.

Mathew Taylor -

When re-installing the mother board ensure that all of the previoulsly diconnected connector cables are out of the way and do not become trapped by the motherboard.

Tom Brandolini -

Definitely watch out to have all your connectors above the board. I managed to get my #5 connector trapped under it. Still hope wasn't damaged, we'll see in a few minutes :)

iluxan -

check also that the golden cicuit is opened when the sim card tray is inserted. this circuitry controls the presence of the sim card tray.

maxt -

Schritt 16

Use a spudger to pry the battery up from the rear case. The battery is attached with an adhesive strip around the perimeter of the battery.
To prevent the battery from bending during the removal process, we recommend against using just the plastic pull-tab.
Removing the battery is NOT necessary for replacing the GPS antenna. It merely gives you more space for removing the headphone assembly (which is also unnecessary to completely remove).
The iPhone's battery is attached to the rear case with a mild adhesive. This adhesive usually comes out attached to the battery. If your replacement battery already includes an adhesive backing, you're all set. If your replacement battery doesn't have an adhesive backing, you'll want to transfer the adhesive from your old battery to the new one.
If the battery isn't detaching from the rear case, apply a few drops of high concentration (over 90%) isopropyl alcohol under the edge of the battery. Wait about one minute for the alcohol solution to weaken the adhesive. Use the flat end of a spudger to gently lift the battery. Allow the alcohol to air dry before installing your new battery.
Don't try to forcefully lever the battery out. If needed, apply a few more drops of alcohol to further weaken the adhesive. Never deform or puncture the battery with your pry tool.
You can use a hair dryer or heat gun on its lowest setting to heat the back of the case. This will help loosen the adhesive bond before using the spudger to separate the battery from the case back.
Caution: Overheating the iPhone may ignite the battery.

The glue is very strong under the battery and you may end up snapping a few spudgers in the process so make sure you have a few spare for moving onto other steps. A screwdriver is to hard and will end up damaging the battery.

viper501 -

Splendid job. it was like a walk. perfect Instructions.

A tip: to handle the screws, very small, I used a pair of tweezers for eyebrows wrapped in double sided adhesive tape.

Thanks. Alessandro

AlexPi -

it is said on step 18 "Carefully peel up the orange ribbon cable from the rear panel"

but when you reassemble the iPhone, how do you glue the ribbon on your new panel?

bobbyfrog -

I successfully completed these steps to dry out a wet phone. While everything inside was dry as a bone, I never did remove the battery since the adhesive was so strong.

I found the spudger far too weak to even attempt the removal of the battery. Instead, I used a folding bone (something I've had for years that's used for making perfect folds in heavy printmaking paper) however, I was still bending the battery far more than I was comfortable with. Since my mission was not to mess with or replace the battery anyways I just left it alone.

Excellent directions!

ratioswitch -

Installed and the phone is working... You'd think Apple didn't want us to be able to replace the battery. Good directions.

lazygorilla -

I did not need to remove the battery. The power button, headphone jack, volume rocker, and vibrate switch were all accessible with the battery still in place.

Mike M -

I've done all the steps and phone switches on and works just fine with the one exception that I do have a signal! Is it possible I've damaged the aerial in the process? The strange thing is that on checking the networks I can see T-Mobile, but not 02, so implies something is working. All very odd. Currently my iPhone has become an iPod! Erkk

Any tips?

John -

You most likely forgot to re-atatch the antenna. It is one of the connecters you unhooked after the first 3...its located in the top left of the case..Its a circular connecter.

Zitat von John:

I've done all the steps and phone switches on and works just fine with the one exception that I do have a signal! Is it possible I've damaged the aerial in the process? The strange thing is that on checking the networks I can see T-Mobile, but not 02, so implies something is working. All very odd. Currently my iPhone has become an iPod! Erkk

Any tips?

Charles Ravaglia -

Sorry...Its the connecter on the bottom left..Rectangular shaped

Zitat von John:

I've done all the steps and phone switches on and works just fine with the one exception that I do have a signal! Is it possible I've damaged the aerial in the process? The strange thing is that on checking the networks I can see T-Mobile, but not 02, so implies something is working. All very odd. Currently my iPhone has become an iPod! Erkk

Any tips?

Charles Ravaglia -

I put back together my iPhone and put it in a new shell but I just finished and the power button won't work what could i have done wrong?

thomas manning -

Zitat von thomas manning:

I put back together my iPhone and put it in a new shell but I just finished and the power button won't work what could i have done wrong?

oh also the vibrate button won't work any ideas there?

thomas manning -

I managed to replace the mute button without removing the on/off button :o)

luisgarcillan -

Great tutorial guys, I must admit it's not easy, due to tiny parts and screws, but you can do it!

Great!

KrissWeb -

Was able to peel the ribbons without removing the battery. Worked great with a 3G. Thanks

midiman127 -

Instructions and notes made this fairly easy to do. I had one scary moment where my screen would not turn on but a Hard Reset on the phone fixed it.

richardskevinm -

any help welcome,just changed the battery on the wife's iPhone after it took a little swim,it wouldn't charge after drying out and i thought a new battery would be the answer,phone switches on ok and everything works except it won't charge on any of our proven chargers.guess something on the main board's knackered. if you have any ideas i would be a very happy chap.

gareth jones -

Be careful when trying to pry the battery from the side, as the spudger will break.

zeke -

There are no delicate parts below the battery so you can push the spudger under the battery without damaging anything. Just be careful at the top of the phone that you don't damage the orange ribbon cable.

Erik Mouw -

Just a little tip I thought I might add. I would recommend having a digital camera handy to taking snap shots before proceeding with each step, so that you can see exactly how it originally looked at each stage. Once you've gotten to the battery section, just pop the card from the camera into a computer or applicable device and you now have a simple guide for reassembly that is specific to your device.

Also, it may be prudent to take a picture of the screws laid out in a tray along side the phone in the same positions they came out of.

szr -

Agree with others - spooger will almost certainly break if you try to pry it out using just that and you can't pull hard enough on the plastic tab. Even on my 2 year old phone, the glue was still *quite* good at holding the battery in.

I used an equally small flat-blade screwdriver and gently walked around the battery lifting against the bottom plastic and the edge of the phone being careful NEVER to touch any of the flat-cable wires. While you can pry against the bottom since there is nothing under it (just double-check since there are some wires running along the side of the phone and the pressure you need to remove the battery would damage the wires if you pryed on them), you need to be careful against the edge of the phone. It's cheap plastic. You can pry against it, but I dared not use more force than enough to start hearing the adhesive start to rip/creak loose. SLOWLY walking around the battery at safe pry points several times finally loosened it enough that I could pull it out. GO SLOW.

mattfife -

I found removal of the batt was easier to accomplish by prying slightly and slowly around, starting from the edge opposite the Volume control.

Same - the key is to start prying with a screwdriver, not a plastic spudger, but make sure to keep away from any wires.

iluxan -

If you have the plastic spudger that comes in the kit, it will most likely break when trying to remove the battery. A butter knife worked extremely well, however ...

jargogle -

Agree with this comment. Prying the battery up from its adhesive was the hardest part of this repair, and yes, I did break the spudger thingy.

Barb -

Make sure no unplugged cabel is under the circute board when inserting the board again.

This happens easily since the cable tend to spring back.

Mathias -

Since I didn't have a hair dryer (never needed one) I used a 500W construction lamp... Those things get very hot. The battery came free relatively easy.

DefCharlie -

Had to use pliers to slowly pull the battery free by it's tab. When you reverse the steps to reassemble the phone - make sure to get all 6 (or 7 for the 3GS) cables plugged back in. I forgot connector 5 and had to take the phone back apart. Then realized the next day I also had missed connector 6 (wifi). So because I reassembled too quickly the first time - I got to do all the steps 3 times! But phone works perfectly now with a new battery.

pdusini -

Actually broke the plastic spludger trying to get the battery off. Considered it the hardest part of the tutorial. I kept looking at it to see if I hadn't ruined something.Asides from this, reassembling was fairly quick although there was no sliding back of the logic board for me on a 3G. Turned it back on, tested sound, microphone and wifi. All seems good. Thanks alot for all the help guys.

pedromcerveirapinto -

I've made all the disassembling process with no problems, but when I put the logic board back the battery starts getting hot and hotter. Any suggestions??

germanperezsalva -

When I put the new battery in, it was a smidge too far toward the bottom. As a result the logic board didn't quite fit back into place and I was unable to put two screws back in. However, the repair seems successful and my phone is working now. Additional guidance on installing the battery would help.

atlemar -

So, I replaced the battery, but now, when I charge the phone, it shuts down and restarts. It also shuts down with use. Hmmm. What is it? Is it the "Do not remove tape"? Or som eother connector?

jonatgree -

I replaced the battery and it works great...battery wise...however my home button and power button do not work. I can turn the phone on by plugging it in and then out again only. HELP PLEASE?!?!?!

eswolski - 03/09/14

The new battery that I have had air pocket in it. It kinda bloated. The logic board would not fit back perfectly because of the bloated battery.

So using a sharp cutter, I cut a bit hole. Pssssttt... the air came out. Watch out for the chemical smell. Using a good tape, tape back the hole. Double did that to make sure.

Don't know whether I supposed to do that or not, but sending back the battery to ifixit was not an option as I live on the other side of the planet.

Indramin Darmadi - 06/01/15

any one can help me fix my iphone 3g. i was using it the other day when it suddenly turned off by itself and i cant turn it back on, any tips?

albano.k275 - 20/12/19

OK, I replaced the battery following the instructions (was more of a struggle than I thought it would be to get the logic board back in place) and put it all back together. All appears to be working fine except the Camera. The Camera App will not open the camera to let me take either a photo video. As the camera is never disconnected from the logic board I am puzzled as to what could be the issue. Very frustrating. Any ideas?

Guy Manchester -

Schritt 17

Remove the two Phillips #00 screws securing the on/off switch to the front bezel.
When replacing, check the protrusion of the switch. There is a small plastic spacer adhered to the inside of button which may come off with cleaning. Without a spacer, the button may not protrude enough to be depressed. If lost, it can be replaced with a suitable thickness of stiff plastic (eg shirt box lid).

Im stuck at reassembling the power on/off button after replacing the jack connector, for me its the most difficult part because it can be assembled partially wrong and then it won't turn it on. Could anyone post some more details about it ? for instance how the button itself should be placed and what screw should be used, by mistake I had some screws mixed and now I don't recognize which one should be used. THANKS!

Nicola Ferruzzi -

This Step is not really necessary.

Christian Schiefer -

Always test the button after replacement, if its not moving freely, loosen both sides or take one screw out, and refit, its like the mute switch, sometime it takes a few times of refitting to get it right. On new cases, especially the OEM kind, you might have to "scrape" a bit of the plastic where the button goes through to get it to move more freely.

Mark -

Hi guys!

I have set of new screws here an I need to sort them - I can't find any specifications on the two screws mentioned here. How long are the two screws for the "on/off"-swith exactly? Thanks for the hlep, this website is great!

JulianFixIt -

Schritt 18

Carefully peel up the orange ribbon cable from the rear case.
The ribbon cable is easily damaged - be very gentle.

Schritt 19

Remove the following 4 screws:
Three 1.8 mm Phillips #00 screws securing the headphone jack and GPS antenna to the rear case. Note the order in which you remove the screws, as the left one has a slightly larger head.
One 3.8 mm Phillips #00 screw in the plastic loop near the headphone jack.

Can somebody say me, if the screw (1.8 mm) on the left side is very important? I lost this screw? What is the function of this screw?

joachimschreiter -

4 screws: If the 3.8mm (orange circle) is #1

#2 and #4 are identical

#3 has a smaller head.

In tight places like this, I found a teense bit of Elmers spotted on the screw head and allowed to dry a few secs to the driver, helps to stabilize the way in.

I can't get the orange screw loose from the headphone jack. It continuously spins, but never pops up from the assembly. I can't use tweezers to get at it because despite unscrewing it forever, the head never comes away. How do I fix this?

Jessi Darklighter -

Try to lever the screw's head with a flat screwdriver or a knife, so you can force it outwards while you screw it lose. That usually works with stripped screws.

Dirk Lucas -

Schritt 20

Remove the four Phillips #00 screws securing the volume and mute switch.
The volume switch assembly sits on top of the mute switch. Make sure that the small soft pad on the mute switch is not lost, otherwise the mute switch will sit very loosely after reassembly.
The mute switch assembly screws should be tightened with the switch in the off position. Check the protrusion of the switch when turned on, since it may not stick out far enough to operate if the switch assembly is incorrectly positioned. (Check the gap between the switch frame and the bezel (white gap showing between the two screws near the 6). The screw on the far right is slightly longer than the other 3 screws. When reassembling the phone, keep this in mind.

For step 20, not all of the screws in my phone were the same length. The far right screw in the picture is a longer screw than the others.

Mike M -

by the time you are removing the vibrate button, you should check this to be in ¨off¨ position, as is a small part and is a very triky situation re-assembling this, it fits back, it doesnt matter if is on or off so you will realise this by the time you have the iPhone completed and couldnt use the button, result, open again and correct it.

alberto Carrillo -

Hi All,

I continue on my iPhone build and I fix one part and seem to break another.

After stripping it all down I then put it all back together but now my lock button doesnt work.

Any ideas?

I followed the tutorial and the rest of the buttons on the ribbon all work.

What could of happened?

Liam George -

While disassembling, the screw in the far right corner should be separated from the other screws. If you confuse it with one of the other three screws, it is impossible to reassemble the vibration button.

roemer71 -

What meaning by "off" position? Vibration off, or sound off?

Brian -

When reassembling I found the screwhole for the longer screw (on the right) was full of glue. I used a hot pin to get the worst of it out.

paulmillin -

Hi guys, my middle screw on my volume button is stuck and I don't want to keep unscrewing it for fear of wearing the head down too much. Does anyone have any hints that might help me? Cheers!

Aaron -

Hi guys!

I have set of new screws here an I need to sort them - I can't find more detailled specifications on the four screws mentioned here. How long are the screws for the sound-swith exactly? How long is the "slightly longer" screw on the far right? Thanks for the hlep, this website is great!

JulianFixIt -

Schritt 21

Lift the volume button circuitry away from the side of the iPhone, and carefully peel up the orange ribbon cable from the rear case. The cable is thin and easily damaged.

Schritt 22

Carefully lift the headphone jack assembly out of the iPhone.
Switch the green mute switch down (towards the back side of the iPhone) into mute position. This will make it much easier to insert it, once the new mute button is in place.

This is a great guide in helping you dismantle the phone and to remove the existing assembly, however the bit that's actually difficult is not covered, which is installing the new one...when a get a few more minutes I'll write a detailed description of how I did this is and the things to watch out for (it took me bloody ages). Any questions in the meantime feel free to message me!

Joe Fleming -

Zitat von Joe Fleming:

This is a great guide in helping you dismantle the phone and to remove the existing assembly, however the bit that's actually difficult is not covered, which is installing the new one...when a get a few more minutes I'll write a detailed description of how I did this is and the things to watch out for (it took me bloody ages). Any questions in the meantime feel free to message me!

Would love to read your writeup and tips for installing the replacement. Thanks, Bernard

bvc7g -

Joe, I'd really appreciate any advice/instruction on that most complicated part of the operation! Seems to be nowhere on the net that gives this info. I've taken the iPhone to pieces and put it back together as the part I had and the part it's meant to be replace just looked worlds apart (though they were identical on closer inspection).

Sure others here would love to know as well.

Cheers!

Andy

iggy1967 *at* hotmail.com

I'm having a hard time reversing this process. I've got the switch set to "off" and I think I've got everything in the right spot, put a few screws back in, and the switch sits flush against the side the case, instead of coming out a bit. Being flush it's switch it on and off. Any suggestions? Please!

Alan Tocheri -

Guys, I really need help! I've managed everything -including replacing all the plastics etc. onto the new headphone replacement and it's all almost ready to go ...apart from the power button!! How the devil do you fit it back on?? I've tried every combination and am staggered that i can't find a single resource online that covers this.

I'd be in your debt if you could help -and I'm sure there are others here too who'd appreciate it!

Power button is a little funny. The button itself has that metal "swing" (for lack of a better word) to it. If you push the "swing" as far as you can from side to side, you'll notice it doesn't move as far from one side to the other. So we'll call these the 'short side' and 'long side'.

The button goes into the back of the phone with the 'long side' of the swing faces the back of the phone. So when you put it in, the metal swing will be facing down, fitting into the grove in the back plate.

The switch with the 2 screws just fit over top of it. It doesn't seem like it would work, but put them in and try the button. It should give you the 'click' and normal feedback you'd expect.

Clear as mud?

Alan Tocheri -

Alan,

I have taken everything apart but cannot figure out how to release the ribbon from the vibrate button? How does this part come off and how does the new one go on?

Thanks,

Austin

austinochs -

From what I remember, the ribbon doesn't come off from the vibrate button or volume button. I believe it's one piece when you go to replace it. Someone might be able to correct me though.

Alan Tocheri -

Alan,

Clear as a crystal! And it worked beautifully. All back together now -many thanks;)

The vibrate has gone kaput but I think I can live with that;)

Andy

Well after all that my problem persists.

the iPod plays fine through the speakers, but sounds faraway in headphones -almost as if mono through both cans.

I've tried adaptors, three sets of headphones and am a little frustrated that even managing to replace the jack hasn't solved this.

There's nothing online anywhere about this problem, so...who out there has some ideas on what it could be? I'm foxed.

Heya, I followed the guide to replace mute button. Everything went fine until I put it together and tried to start it up. iPhone just shows apple log and it dissapears after 5 seconds. Nothing happens. Any suggestion?

Michael -

Hey Michael, so did you find a solution for this problem. I have the same Problem: Pressing PowerButton, Display turns on, Apple Logo ... and thats all? What should I do?

joachimschreiter -

By the way: When I pflug in the iPhone with my mac: Itunes could Sync my iPhone and iphoto see all the photos, which are on the camera roll. But I cannot use my phone: I only see the apple on the Display.

joachimschreiter -

On my replacement part, there were two small plastic posts on the back of the switch. Looking at the one I'm replacing and the new one, it seemed as if they needed to be squashed, but I found the solution with a soldering iron. If you carefully melt the two posts with a broad tip, you create a much firmer bond between the switch itself and the metal shoe it fits on.

Technickal28 -

For me, two questions are not answered yet in this step:

It is only possible to buy a flex cable without the microswitch and the metal housing of ring/vibrate-Button. So:

1. How can I remove the small switch from the old flex cable? Only by pulling out?

2. How do I remove the metal housing? Pulling out the old plastic posts is sufficient?

iphoneschorsch -

Once the headphone jack assembly has been removed from the phone, you must remove the three brackets attached to the assembly. Pay close attention to the orientation of these brackets in relation to the small adhesive tabs on the assembly so that you can properly adhere the brackets to your replacement assembly.

Chris Rothgeb -

watch out for a small mettal washer here, i wasn't paying attention an now dont know where it goes.

nickmew -

The headphone jack slides backwards slightly before you can lift it out. Installation should push the jack down then slide into place.

Roger Soucy -

I had some trouble getting the mute switch/rocker to function properly, as a couple others have mentioned. There is only one way it will work properly: Make sure the mute rocker is in the muted position with the red dot visible before you re-install the bracket. The switch that you stuck to the bracket by removing the tape backing must also be in the muted position (pushed down toward the back of the case). The tip of the switch fits into a hole in the rocker. If it isn't in the hole, moving the mute rocker will dislodge the taped switch from the bracket. Take your time with this step and make sure the mute rocker feels normal before attaching anything else (phone jack, power button, etc.). Good luck!

goodski -

I have also experienced that the adhesive located on the "mute/silence" button is really bad on some aftermarket parts. I have had good results using a small drop of "loctite superglue" in addition to the adhesive. (Please be sure to avoid getting any glue on the actual button..).

Iver -

Having a magnetized screw driver would have saved me about 15 minutes (puting the phone back together) - otherwise, I used tweezers to set each screw in to position before tightening (carefully)

jeeames -

This guide doesn't cover installing the new vibrate switch that comes as part of a new ribbon cable assembly, so a quick couple of things to note:

1) The vibrate/silent switch on the end of the ribbon cable is secured in place by a solid metal bracket. This bracket holds the switch against the outer plastic vibrate/silent rocker. When you pull out the old ribbon cable assembly, the metal bracket will come with, it is welded on by plastic lugs on the back of the switch. Don't fear, if you have a soldering iron you can melt these away and gently pull off the old switch and ribbon cable assembly.

2) Installing the new switch/ribbon cable assembly is a bit tricky. The back of the new switch should have an adhesive pad and two fresh plastic lugs. Stick the switch onto the bracket to hold it in place and then carefully melt the plastic lugs down with the flat of the soldering iron to weld the switch in place. Be careful not to apply too much heat to the switch, and don't burn your fingers! It's pretty fiddly to hold. You will want to ensure the switch is firmly welded on, otherwise there will be some play in the vibrate switch action.

AmusedToDeath -

Schritt 23

Remove the single 2.4mm Phillips #00 screw securing the black plastic spacer.
Some replacement rear panels may not have a threaded screw hole in this location.

This is definitely one of the trickiest parts to reassemble. I suggest holding the spinning part with a pair of tweezers, and having a second person screw the screw. This is nearly impossible to do with a single pair of hands.

ctjewett -

Hi!

Is this antenna the same antenna as the wifi one?

Where on earth can I find the actual iPhone 3G wifi antenna?

Thank you very much, I'm going nuts.

BUYUYU -

Be very very carefull in STEP 23 it isn't a Philips #00 screw. It thiner and If you try with another screw you will get a widther hole and you will not able to mount the SIM reject part. So I advise you to keep this little screw separetly and remember to use it when you mount your iPhone again.

Chel -

Is it possible to only replace the camera holder or do I have to replace the whole back cover?

Thanks!

naf -

When reassembling mine, I found to my horror that the new rear panel did not have hole here to screw into. I went to the local hardware store and bought a 1mm drill bit and re-drilled the hole. Amazingly it worked and I was able to screw this piece back on.

Russell Graham -

Zitat von Russell Graham:

When reassembling mine, I found to my horror that the new rear panel did not have hole here to screw into. I went to the local hardware store and bought a 1mm drill bit and re-drilled the hole. Amazingly it worked and I was able to screw this piece back on.

i had exactly the same situation but a 1mm drill piece didn't seem small enough..

peter -

On my replacement Rear Panel, there was no screw hole for the Phillips #00 screw used to secure the 'black plastic spacer'. The screw appears to be a self tapping screw. I would suggest 'tapping' the screw hole first before installing the antenna housing.

jmaher -

I used a 0.8 mm (1/32") drill bit to tap the screw hole. ==> Dremel 628 Precision Drill Set (available at Home Depot). You only need a minimal "starter hole" as the screw is self-tapping.

jmaher -

This is probably one of the most tricky steps.

That b…"eautiful" little screw is quite impossible to reassemble. The problem is, that the little plastic part which looks like a long double triangle is the "thing" that will extract the SIM card when one uses the extractor.

If this part and the screw can't be put back where they belong to, then you must expect having to open your iPhone EVERY time you want to change your SIM card.

The iPhone will work fine and you'll never have a single problem as long as you don't want to change your carrier.

Think about it !

how do you install the gps antennae if it doesnt have the screw hole?

sosa -

cant you just crazy glue it?

sosa -

NO!! Don't use glue as this little part which you fix with the screw is the SIM card extractor: it has to be able to move.

I used an IV needle to "drill" the hole. You may also use a big safety pin.

When removing the Phillips #00 screw securing the black plastic spacer, the SIM card removal lever will be removed. Be careful to put it back when reassembling as otherwise you will damage the back casing by screwing too far.

nicolasdore -

It is not clear how to mount this trapezoidal detail. But when i switched back and face -> I could attach it with a screw.

Sergei - 27/06/20

Schritt 24

Use a spudger to pry up the black plastic antenna housing from the rear panel.
Lift the black plastic GPS antenna housing out of the iPhone.

There's a bit of tacky tape under here, so pry carefully, moving from left side to right side in alteration, else you bend/snap this housing.

ctjewett -

Great guide, i did all these steps.

But wifi still not working :(

New antenna but no network found

Schicksal -

Zitat von Schicksal:

Great guide, i did all these steps.

But wifi still not working :(

New antenna but no network found

same thing here,I can still put mine in the freezer for about 10 minutes,and get a few minutes of connection until the phone heats up again(great for Alaska but I live in Sunny Florida)have to be real careful of the condensation though,sure wish someone would figure out what's the cause of this.

ThPranksta -

Zitat von ThPranksta:

same thing here,I can still put mine in the freezer for about 10 minutes,and get a few minutes of connection until the phone heats up again(great for Alaska but I live in Sunny Florida)have to be real careful of the condensation though,sure wish someone would figure out what's the cause of this.

maybe because here we are talking about GPS antenna and not WIFI antenna that is positioned near dock connector, in the other side of iPhone..

paso1971 -

Zitat von paso1971:

maybe because here we are talking about GPS antenna and not WIFI antenna that is positioned near dock connector, in the other side of iPhone..

The repair guide on this site called "GPS Antenna"

That antenna handles gps, wifi and bluetooth from what I've gathered. please prove me wrong:-(

ThPranksta -

Zitat von ThPranksta:

The repair guide on this site called "GPS Antenna"

That antenna handles gps, wifi and bluetooth from what I've gathered. please prove me wrong:-(

Uhm, maybe I'm wrong, but why my gps doesn't work and wifi and BT yes?

paso1971 -

There is some adhesive holding it down. A little force may be needed to pry it up.

Matthew Kelly -

The GPS antenna is fixed with an adhesive and is also fragile. It may be worth using a thin knife to carefully work it away from the back case without breaking it.

schmittywill -

I found that removing the camera "mount" first was easier to get at the antenna housing.