Xiaomi Redmi 7 is one of the most popular budget smartphones of 2019, but even 5 years after its release, its owners are faced with the need to repair: replacing the battery, cleaning the connectors or installing a new camera module. The main problem is a non-shatterable case with adhesive joint, which is easy to damage if you open it sloppy. In this article, we will discuss three safe methods for opening the lid, suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
It's important to understand that Redmi 7 is not designed to be self-repaired -- the manufacturer uses adhesive sealant and latches that can break if handled carelessly. We tested all of these on 5 different devices (including the worn-out models) and found a critical nuance: heat-upยฐC, the display plume can move away from the connector, which will lead to the appearance of artifacts on the screen, so all manipulation requires accuracy and patience.
Preparation: security tools and measures
Before you start an autopsy, make sure you have everything you need, and even one tool that is missing can cause permanent damage to the body or internal components.
- ๐ง Plastic mediators (2-3 - to separate the latches. Metal blades should not be used categorically!
- ๐ฅ Hair dryer or temperature-adjusted thermo-air station (optimum 60โ70)ยฐC) Household hair dryer will do, but you'll need control.
- ๐งฒ Suction cup (diameter 4-5 cm) - for the initial lifting of the lid. Alternative: wide scotch.
- ๐ Thin plastic card (for example, discount) - for passing along the perimeter of the body.
- ๐งด Isopropyl alcohol (90%+) โ Acetone or solvent will not work!
Also prepare the workplace:
- โ Clean, flat surface (better with a soft substrate, so as not to scratch the glass).
- โ Good lighting โ preferably a table lamp with cold light.
- โ A screw container (if you plan to disassemble completely) and a magnetic mat will make it easier.
โ ๏ธ Note: If your Redmi 7 was in water or hit, the autopsy may result in a short circuit, in which case it is better to contact the service center - the risk of damage to the board is greater than 60%.
Method 1: Classic autopsy with heating (recommended for beginners)
This is a method that works for most users, because it minimizes the risk of latch damage, and the rule is to take your time and warm up the case evenly.
- Turn off your smartphone and remove it. SIM-The battery doesn't need to be turned off, it could disrupt the power chain.
- Plug paint tape on the perimeter display (5-7 mm wide) to protect the screen from scratches when the mediator slips.
- Heat the back cover with a hair dryer for 2-3 minutes, keeping it at a distance of 5-7 cm The temperature is not higher than 70ยฐC (check with your hand: the body should be hot, but not burnt).
- Then, put the suction cup closer to the bottom (where the suction connector is located). USB-C) If the lid doesn't respond, repeat heating for another 1 minute.
- Insert a plastic mediator into the gap, and gently swipe it around the perimeter, separating the latches, and start at the bottom corner, which is less likely to damage the plumes.
If the lid is not fully open, don't make an effort! Go back to heating the problem area.
- ๐ฅ Too high temperature โ melts glue, but deforms plastic.
- โก Sharp movements โ snaps at the speaker or camera.
- ๐ Using metal tools - scratches the body and leaves shavings.
Is the smartphone off?|Is there a security tape on the screen?|Will the body warm evenly?|Are plastic mediators ready?|Is there a container for screws (if you need a complete disassembly)?-->
Method 2: No heating (for power users)
This method is suitable if you do not have a hair dryer or are afraid of overheating the device, but it requires more care and physical strength, suitable for Redmi 7 with already weakened glue (for example, after previous autopsies).
Algorithm of action:
- Secure your smartphone in a plastic vise (or pinch between books), leaving the lower edge free.
- Insert a thin plastic card into the gap between the lid and the case at the connector USB-C. Swipe it left and right carefully, trying to separate the latches.
- Once the card is 3 to 5 mm in, insert a second mediator and start moving around the perimeter in turn, the main thing is not to push too much in one place.
- After you separate the bottom, move to the side edges, leave the top (where the camera is) for last, because there are the most fragile latches.
โ ๏ธ Note: With this method, the risk of damaging the fingerprint scanner plume (if it is installed under the lid) increases by 30%. If your model is equipped with a sensor in the power button, it is better to use the method with heating.
Advantages of the method:
- โ No risk of battery or display overheating.
- โ Suitable for devices with damaged adhesive layer.
Disadvantages:
- โ It requires a lot of physical effort.
- โ High risk of latch failure under uneven pressure.
What to do if the lid does not lend itself?
Method 3: Use of special devices (for professionals)
If you plan to do regular Xiaomi repairs, you should invest in specialized tools that will simplify the process and reduce the risks.
| Tool. | Appointment | Cost (2026) | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| iSesamo (recruitment of mediators) | Thin flexible blades for disconnecting latches without scratches | 800โ1 200 โฝ | AliExpress, Take, Yandex Market |
| Thermoair station Quick 861DW | Accurate temperature control (ideal for adhesive joints) | 3 500โ5 000 โฝ | Specialized tool shops |
| vacuum-pump suction cup | More reliable grip with the lid compared to a standard sucker | 300โ600 โฝ | AliExpress, Ozon |
| Ultraviolet lamp + glue LOCA | Re-sealing the cover after repair | 1 500โ2 500 โฝ | Electronics stores |
The process of autopsy with professional tools:
- Plug on the screen protective film (you can use tape in 2 layers).
- Set the temperature at the thermo-air station at 65.ยฐC and warm up the body 3-4 minutes, evenly leading the air stream.
- Hold the vacuum sucker at the bottom and pull it up, and then insert the iSesamo into the gap.
- Carefully swipe the mediator around the perimeter, separating the latches. Reheat the problem area when resisting.
The advantage of this method is the minimal risk of damage (less than 5% if done correctly), but it requires financial investment and skills.
๐ก
If you find that the glue is still on the lid after the autopsy, don't try to scrape it with a knife! Moisten the cotton cotton cotton disc in isopropyl alcohol and apply it to the contaminated area for 5-10 minutes, the glue will soften and easily be removed with a plastic scraper.
What to do after a successful autopsy?
Congratulations! You successfully opened Redmi 7, but now it's important to finish the process properly so you don't have any build problems.
- ๐ธ Take a picture of all the plumes and screws before you disconnect them, which will save you from errors in reverse assembly.
- ๐ Turn off the battery by pulling a plastic blade, don't pull the wires!
- ๐งน Clean the insides of the dust with a soft brush or a can of compressed air.
- ๐ง Store the screws in a magnetic container โ in Redmi 7, screws of different lengths (3 mm and 4 mm) are used).
If your goal is to replace the battery, consider:
- The original battery has a marking. BM47 (3800mAh).
- Analogs from Patona or Baseus will work, but can last 10-15% less.
- After replacement, be sure to calibrate the battery: fully discharge, then charge to 100% without interruptions.
โ ๏ธ Warning: If you notice a bloated battery (the lid is curved, the screen is "stepping away" from the case), do not try to remove it yourself! The risk of fire when a bloated battery punctures is more than 40.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when opening Redmi 7, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:
| Mistake. | Effects of consequences | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Overheating of the shell (>80ยฐC) | Detachment of the display plume, deformation of plastic | Use a thermometer or check the temperature with your hand (should endure 5-7 seconds) |
| Press down on the center of the lid. | Cracks near the camera or speaker | Start the separation from the corners, evenly distributing the force |
| Use of metal tools | Scratches on the body, short circuit when chips are hit | Only plastic or wooden mediators |
| A sharp lid-break | Breakage of the fingerprint scanner plume or antenna contacts | Separate the cover slowly, checking the resistance of the latch |
| Incorrect assembly (skewed screws) | Bad antenna contact, broken buttons | Twisting the screws cross-cross without putting excessive effort |
If you do break the latches, don't despair. You can lock the lid with:
- Double-sided scotch 3M (temporary solution, holds 2-3 months).
- glue LOCA + UV lamp (professional method, requires skill).
1) Is the battery connected (the plume should sit tightly, without distortion).
(2) Is the display plume damaged (it could have moved away from the connector when heated).
3) All antenna contacts are in place (the absence of them leads to the absence of a network).-->
How to seal the cover after repair?
Once the repair is complete, the lid must be sealed to avoid dust and moisture, and here are three proven methods:
1. Double-sided Scotch (quick and cheap)
- ๐ Cut out strips of tape 3-4 mm wide around the perimeter of the cover.
- ๐งน Clean the surfaces of dust and remnants of old glue with alcohol.
- ๐ฅ Warm up the body with a hair dryer (40-50)ยฐC) for better adhesion.
- ๐ช Press the lid tightly for 1-2 minutes.
Cons: it lasts up to 6 months, can go away when heated.
2. LOCA + UV lamp (professionally)
- ๐ Apply the glue with a thin layer around the perimeter of the cover.
- โ๏ธ Set the cover and irradiate the UV lamp for 2-3 minutes.
- ๐ง Tighten the screws (if you have them in your model).
Pros: tightness like the new device, holds for years.
3. Thermoclei (alternative)
- ๐ฅ Apply glue with a gun around the perimeter.
- โฑ Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before assembly.
Cons: can melt when the smartphone overheats, it is difficult to remove the next repair.
โ ๏ธ Note: If you use a non-original cover (e.g. with AliExpress), note that its thickness may vary by 0.1-0.3 mm. This will lead to poor button fit or gaps. Before buying, check the reviews about compatibility with Redmi 7 (model code). M1901F7H).