Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 is one of the most popular smartphones in the budget segment, released in 2018. Despite the years, the device is still actively used due to its reliability and upgradeability. However, over time, many owners need access to internal components: to replace the battery, clean from dust, repair plumes or install additional modules. The main problem is a non-shattered case, where the rear cover is glued to the frame, rather than attached to latches, as in earlier models.
In this article, you will find detailed instructions for removing the lid without damage, including tool selection, step-by-step actions and typical errors. We will also tell you how to prepare the phone for disassembly, what materials to use to safely separate the adhesive layer, and what to do if the lid does not respond. Information is relevant for all versions of the Redmi Note 5 (whyred), including versions with 3/32 GB, 4/64 GB and Redmi Note 5 Pro.
We warn you beforehand that the procedure requires patience and care, and if you've never taken a smartphone apart, you'd better go to a service center, but if you decide to do it yourself, follow our recommendations to avoid damaging the battery plume or the touchscreen, which are the most vulnerable parts of the disassembly.
Preparation for the disassembly: what will be needed
Before you start removing the lid, make sure you have all the tools you need. Using inappropriate devices (such as a knife or screwdriver) can cause scratches on the body or damage to the internal components.
- 🔧 Plastic mediators (2-3 - to separate the lid from the frame. Metal tools cannot be used!
- 🔥 Hair dryer or thermoair station - for heating the adhesive layer (optimum temperature 60-80)°C).
- 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol 90%+ — for removing glue residues after disassembly.
- 📦 Suction cups (optional) - help to lid the lid in the initial stage.
- 🔋 New glue tape (e.g., scotch, 3M 9448A or analogues) - for reverse assembly.
Also, prepare your desk: clean, clean, with no debris or small parts; use an antistatic mat or at least put a piece of paper on the surface to avoid static electricity; if you're planning a battery replacement, buy the original 4000mAh Redmi Note 5 battery in advance, cheap ones can swell or fail quickly.
Important: Before disassembling completely turn off the phone and remove SIM-This will prevent short circuits from accidentally contacting the board, and we also recommend that you video the process, which will help you to properly assemble the device back.
Step-by-step: how to remove the back cover
The process of removing the lid consists of several steps: heating, separation and neat smearing. Below is a step-by-step scheme used by professional craftsmen. Follow it strictly so as not to damage the plumes or touch glass.
- Heat the body. Turn the dryer on at a medium power (60-70°C) and warm the back cover evenly for 2-3 minutes. Pay special attention to the edges, there is a thicker adhesive layer. Do not direct hot air to the screen or camera!
- Separate the cover. Take a plastic mediator and gently insert it into the gap between the lid and the frame. Start at the lower left corner (near the USB-C connector), as there are fewer plumes.
- Gradually smack it. Slowly drive the mediator along the edge, separating the lid. If you feel resistance, warm it up again with a hairdryer. Don't force it!
- Remove the lid. When the lid is 2/3 apart, gently lift it around the corners. Notice that it may still be glued to the battery plume.
☑️ Checklist before lid removal
If the lid doesn't lend itself, don't try to pull it off by force. The glue probably hasn't softened enough. Reheat for another 1-2 minutes, paying attention to the problem areas. Also check if the mediator has caught on to the internal components (such as antenna contacts).
⚠️ Warning: When you detach the lid, don't pull it near the on button or volume control, because there are thin plumes that are easy to tear. If you hear a crunch or crack, immediately stop disassembling and check the integrity of the components.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even with careful disassembly, many users make mistakes that lead to breakdowns, and we've collected the most common problems and ways to prevent them:
| Mistake. | Effects of consequences | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Use of a knife or metal screwdriver | Scratches on the body, damage to plumes | Use only plastic mediators |
| Overheating by a hairdryer (>80°C) | Deformation of plastic, detachment of sensory glass | Control the temperature with a thermometer |
| Sharp compartment of the lid | Breakage of battery or camera plume | Separate the cover slowly, 1-2 mm at a time |
| Heating just one angle | Uneven softening of glue, cracks on the cover | Heat the entire surface evenly |
Another common mistake is to ignore the glue residues when reassembled. If you don't clean the frame and cover of the old adhesive layer, the new fixation will be unreliable, and the lid may move away over time. Use isopropyl alcohol and a wiltless wipe for cleaning. Also remember to seal: after replacing components (like a battery), check if the lid fits tightly to avoid dust or moisture.
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If the lid has deformed after removal (for example, bent slightly), put it under the press for 10-15 minutes. Use a heavy book or special rods to help return the original shape.
What to do after removing the cover: further actions
When the lid is successfully removed, you will be able to access the internal components of the Redmi Note 5.
- 🔋 Replacing the battery is the most popular reason for disassembly. The original battery lasts 2-3 years, after which the capacity drops by 30-40".
- 📸 Camera cleaning - over time, dust accumulates on the module, which degrades the quality of the photo. Use a soft brush or a spray of compressed air.
- 🔌 Train check – if the phone is glitching (for example, the volume button is not working), check the contacts on the board.
- 🧹 Dust removal - the accumulation of debris under the lid can cause overheating.
If your goal is to replace the battery, pay attention to the following nuances:
- Disconnect the battery plume from the motherboard first thing – this will prevent short circuit.
- Use a plastic blade to tamper with the battery. It's glued to the body, and metal tools can puncture it.
- The new battery should be of the same capacity (4000 mAh) and have the original Xiaomi marking.
⚠️ Warning: If you notice that the battery is swelling (the lid has become convex), do not puncture it! Bloated batteries are prone to spontaneous combustion.
Reverse Assembly: how to properly seal the cover
Once the work is done, you have to lock the lid back, and here, many people make the mistake of using regular tape or superglue, which causes the lid to go away after a few days, and we recommend using special glue tape for smartphones, for example:
- The 3M 9448A is a double-sided 0.2mm thick Scotch tape, perfect for the Redmi Note 5.
- The Tesa 61395 is a cheaper, but less durable, model.
- OCA-Film is a professional solution, but requires skills for sticker.
Reverse assembly process:
- Clean the frame and inside of the cover of the old glue with isopropyl alcohol.
- Stick a new glue tape around the frame perimeter, avoiding places where the plumes pass.
- Carefully apply the cover, starting from the top (where the cameras are located), and gradually press it against the frame.
- Warm up the hair dryer of the edge of the cover (temperature 50-60 ° C) for better fixation.
What to do if the cover is not glued?
After assembly, check the phone's performance:
- Turn it on and make sure the screen responds to touch.
- Check the volume and inclusion buttons.
- Launch the camera and take a test photo – the image should be clear, without artifacts.
- Connect the charger and make sure the battery is charging.
When is the best time to contact the service center
While disassembly of the Redmi Note 5 is possible at home, there are situations when it is better to trust the professionals.
- 🔧 You’ve never taken your smartphone apart and are afraid of damaging the fees.
- 🔥 The cover does not separate even after heating - perhaps the glue has dried up or used a non-original composition.
- ⚡ The phone does not turn on after disassembly (no reaction to charging, no indicator lights).
- 📱 Stripes or artifacts appeared on the screen - this may indicate damage to the display plume.
The cost of disassembly in service centers is usually 500–1500 Replacement of the battery will cost in 1500–2500 If you decide to go to the masters, choose services with good reviews and a guarantee for work. mi.com/ru/service.
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If you're disassembling a battery replacement phone, buy only original batteries or certified counterparts (such as those from ZMI or Baseus). Cheap batteries without labeling can swell or fail in a few months.
Video instructions and additional materials
For clarity, we recommend you to watch the video disassembly Xiaomi Redmi Note 5. Below are the verified sources with detailed instructions:
- 📺 Video from the channel "Xiaomi Repair" - step-by-step analysis with the comments of the master.
- 📖 The subject is 4PDA — Discussion of nuances of disassembly and choice of tools.
- 📄 Trail layout (PDF) — This will help you not to confuse contacts during assembly.
It is also useful to check the service manual for Redmi Note 5, which lists all the technical specifications and connection schemes for components, and can be found on specialized forums or in repair databases (for example, GSMArena or iFixit).
If you plan to disassemble smartphones regularly, consider buying a repair kit that includes:
- Plastic mediators of different thicknesses.
- Antistatic tweezers.
- The screwdriver set (Phillips #00, Torx T3/T4).
- A lighted loupe to inspect small details.