How to gently open the back cover on Xiaomi Redmi S2: 3 proven ways

The back cover of the Xiaomi Redmi S2 is not just a decorative element, but a complex design that protects the internal components of the smartphone from dust, moisture and mechanical damage. Many users face the need to remove it, whether it is replacing the battery, cleaning from dust, repairing plumes or installing additional modules. However, improper opening of the case can lead to cracks in plastic, damage to flexible plumes or even failure of the fingerprint sensor.

In this article, we will discuss three safe ways to open the Redmi S2 lid, from the classic mediator method to the use of specialized devices. You will learn what tools you need, how to avoid typical errors and what to do if the lid is stuck to the case. And for those who are afraid of damaging the device, we have prepared a unique tool compatibility table with the 2018 model, which will help you choose the best set.

Before you start, remember: Xiaomi Redmi S2 is not officially self-repairable (unlike Fairphone or some Samsung models), which means that the warranty will be canceled upon any opening of the case. If your device is still warranty, you should contact the service center.

Preparation for autopsy: what you need to know before starting

The first rule of successful repairs is careful preparation, and even if you think the lid will fall off, it's not a good idea to rush.

• 🔧 Tools: you will need a plastic transmitter (0.5-0.7 mm), a suction cup for screens, a thin screwdriver Torx T3 or Phillips #00, tweezers and hair dryers (not necessarily construction, homemade will do).
• 📱 Device status: Turn off the smartphone and remove SIM-The battery must be charged at least 30%, which will prevent accidental switching on while working.
• 📸 Documentation: Take a picture of the back cover from all sides, which will help you get the device back together properly, especially if you're doing a repair for the first time.
• 🧹 Workplace: Use a clean table with a soft substrate (such as a microfiber napkin.

Pay special attention to the adhesive layer that holds the lid. The Redmi S2 uses medium-strength double-sided tape, which can be removed without a trace if you act carefully. However, if you have previously dropped your phone or it has been exposed to high temperatures (for example, lying in the sun in your car), the adhesive could harden. In this case, you will need isopropyl alcohol 90%+ to soften.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use metal blades or knives to open! even a small pressure can damage the antenna tracks under the lid, resulting in loss of network or Wi-Fi.

Method 1: Classical autopsy with a mediator and a sucker

This is the most common method that is suitable for most Xiaomi smartphones with plastic covers, and its advantage is the minimum risk of damage if executed correctly.

1. Heat the case: turn the dryer on at minimum power (temperature ~50°C) and warm the edges of the cover for 2-3 minutes. This will soften the glue. Do not direct hot air to the screen or camera!
2. Suction cup installation: attach the suction cup closer to the bottom edge of the lid (where the USB-C connector is located).
3. Initial gap: Pull the suction cup up, creating a small gap. Put a plastic mediator in it.
4. Careful perimeter passage: slowly drive the mediator along the edge of the lid, separating it from the body. At the corners, be especially careful - there are plumes.

If the lid doesn't lend itself, don't put too much effort into it. The glue probably hasn't softened enough. Reheat again to focus on the "stubborn" areas. In the Redmi S2, the most problematic areas are near the volume buttons and the camera.

Hammer the edges with a hairdryer|Attach the suction cup to the lower edge|Create an initial gap with the mediator|Smoothly lead the mediator around the perimeter|Check the plumes for integrity-->

Once the lid is gone, don't remove it completely right away. It's still connected to the body with two flexible plumes: a fingerprint sensor and an antenna module. Carefully lift the lid and unplug the plumes with tweezers, pulling on the black locking tongues.

Method 2: Use of a special tool - "roof-lifter"

For those who plan to disassemble smartphones regularly, it makes sense to purchase a specialized tool – a plastic “roof-lift” with a hook (for example, the iFixit Opening Tool), which allows you to evenly distribute the force around the perimeter of the lid, minimizing the risk of damage.

Algorithm of action:

1. Warm up the body with a hair dryer (as in the first method).
2. Insert the tool hook into the gap between the lid and the case at the USB-C connector.
3. Smoothly steer the tool along the edge, slightly scrolling it clockwise, which helps to evenly separate the glue.
4. Once the tool passes 2/3 of the perimeter, the lid will be easily removed.

The advantage of this method is that there is less risk of damage to the plumes, since the force is distributed evenly, but the tool costs from 1000 rubles, which is not always justified for single use.

⚠️ Attention: If you use isopropyl alcohol to soften the glue, apply it only to the edges of the lid with a cotton swab!

Method 3: Alternative method for "stick" covers

Sometimes the Redmi S2 cover is so tightly glued that neither the mediator nor the suction cup helps, and this often happens after prolonged use or moisture, in which case the combined method using the thread will help:

1. Warm up the body with a hair dryer for 5 minutes, paying special attention to the corners.
2. Take a thin kapron floss (for example, from dental floss) and put it in the gap between the lid and the body.
3. Carefully thread back and forth, as if you were cutting butter. The glue will cut off and the lid will gradually separate.
4. As soon as the thread passes 3/4 perimeter, put the lid on the mediator.

This requires patience, but it is guaranteed to keep the integrity of the lid, even if the glue has hardened, the main thing is not to rush and press the thread too hard, so as not to scratch the body.

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If you don't have a kapron thread on hand, you can use a thin guitar string (first or second) that is strong enough to keep the plastic intact.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when opening the Redmi S2, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

• 🔥 Overheating of the body: if the hair dryer is too hot, the plastic may deform.Use the minimum temperature and keep the hair dryer at a distance of 10-15 cm.
• 🔪 Use of metal tools: knives or screwdrivers scratch the body and can damage the plumes. Always use plastic.
• 🤲 Excessive effort: if the lid does not lend itself, do not press harder - it is better to warm up the glue again.
• 📵 Forgetting to turn off the plumes: abruptly removing the lid without unplugging the plumes causes them to break. Always check the connections!

Another common problem is damage to the sealing gum (if any) The Redmi S2 doesn't have official water protection, but some users glue additional seals. When you open them, they're easy to tear. If you plan to reassemble the phone, buy a new gum in advance (article: XIAOMI-S2-SEAL).

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Before assembly, make sure to clean the inside of the lid and the body of the glue residues. Use isopropyl alcohol and a lilaless wipe. Apply the new glue in a thin layer, avoiding hitting the connectors.

What to do after a successful autopsy?

Congratulations! You successfully removed the cover of the Xiaomi Redmi S2. But what's next? Here are some tips on what to do with an open device:

• 🔋 Battery Replacement: If your goal is to change the battery, look for the original model. BM43 (3080 mAh: Non-original batteries can swell in 3-6 months.
• 🧹 Dust cleansing: use a soft brush or compressed air balloon to remove dust from the motherboard.Don't blow with your mouth - moisture from your breath can cause corrosion.
• 📶 Checking antennas: If you've had problems with the network, check the antenna tracks on the lid.
• 🔧 Diagnostics of plumes: If the fingerprint sensor or speaker is not working, check the integrity of their plumes. Often the problem lies in oxidized contacts.

If you plan to assemble the phone back, use a new double-sided tape (e.g., 3M 9448A) to apply it only to the edge of the lid, avoiding where the plumes pass. When pressed on the lid, make sure all the latches are in place - you should hear the characteristic clicks.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the opening of Xiaomi Redmi S2