How to open the lid of the Xiaomi phone: models with glue, latches and without tools

Disassembling a Xiaomi smartphone is a challenge that owners face when replacing a battery, repairing a camera or cleaning connectors. But improperly removing the back cover can damage plumes, cracks in glass or loss of leakage. In this article, we will discuss how to open the lid on different Xiaomi models – from the budget Redmi to the flagship Mi and POCO, given the peculiarities of their design.

It is important to understand that modern Xiaomi smartphones are assembled differently: some models are kept on latches, others on glue, and others (for example, Xiaomi 12T or Redmi Note 12 Pro+) have additional screws under stubs. We will describe each case in detail, provide lists of necessary tools and warn about typical errors that lead to breakdowns.

If you’ve never taken a smartphone apart before, we recommend that you get to know the theory first and then get into practice. Some models (like the Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra) will require a special suction cup and mediator, while others (like the one you’ve seen in the past) will need a special suction cup. POCO X3 Pro) enough plastic spatula. We'll also tell you how to avoid damage. IP-certification (water and dust protection) after disassembly.

What tools will be needed to open the lid

The tool list depends on the Xiaomi model, but there's a basic set that's going to come in handy 90 percent of the time. Without the right tools, you're going to be able to scratch the body, break the latches, or break the plumes.

• 🔧 Plastic blade (or mediator) - for gently putting the lid. Metal tools can not be used, they scratch the body.
• 🧲 Suction cup (3-5 cm in diameter) – helps to lift the lid on models with adhesive attachment (for example, Xiaomi 13 or Redmi). K50).
• 🔨 Screwdriver. T3–T5 — for screws under plugs (if any). POCO F4, Xiaomi 12S Ultra.
• 🔥 Hair dryer or thermal air station – for softening the glue (needed for models with waterproof, for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro).
• 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol (90%+) — for removing glue residues after disassembly.
• 📦 Container for screws – so as not to lose small parts (relevant for Xiaomi Mix Fold and other foldable models).

Most budget models (Redmi 10A, POCO M4 Pro) will have enough shoulder blades and suction cups, but flagships (Xiaomi 14, Black Shark 5 Pro) may require a complete set. If you are not sure about your skills, you should contact a service center - especially if the phone is warranty.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use knives, scissors or other sharp objects! they can damage the battery plumes or display, which will lead to expensive repairs.

Step-by-step: how to remove the back cover

The disassembly process varies depending on the type of lid attachment, and we'll look at three basic options: latches, glue, and plug screws. Start by turning off the phone and retrieving it. SIM-map + Memory cards (if installed).

Models with latches (Redmi 9, POCO M3, Xiaomi Mi A3)

This is the simplest case. The lid is held on plastic latches around the perimeter, and your job is to gently snap them off without breaking them.

1. Apply the suction cup to the bottom of the lid (near the USB-C connector) and pull up slightly. If there is no suction cup, try suctioning the shoulder blade on the side.
2. Insert a plastic blade into the gap and gently swipe it around the perimeter, snapping the mounts off, start at the bottom edge and move counterclockwise.
3. When all the latches open, remove the lid. Be careful, it can be connected to the fingerprint scanner plume (in models like the Redmi Note 10 Pro).

If the lid doesn't lend itself, don't force it -- you've probably missed the latch. Check the perimeter again.

Models on glue (Xiaomi 11T, Redmi K40, POCO F3)

The adhesive attachment is more complicated because it requires heating. Without a hair dryer or a thermo-air station, the risk of damage to the lid increases significantly. The heating temperature should not be higher than 60-70 ° C, otherwise you can melt the plastic or damage the battery.

1. Heat the hair dryer back cover around the perimeter for 2-3 minutes, keeping it at a distance of 5-10 cm Pay special attention to the corners - there the glue is stronger.
2. Apply the suction cup to the heated area and pull it up. If the lid doesn't lend itself, repeat the heat.
3. Put the shoulder blade in the gap and slowly swipe around the edge to separate the glue. Take your time, the glue may not be evenly distributed.
4. After removing the cover, remove the remains of the glue from the case and the cover itself using isopropyl alcohol.

⚠️ Warning: Don't heat your phone in the microwave or oven! this could cause the battery to explode or damage internal components.

Models with plug screws (Xiaomi 12 Pro, Black Shark 4, POCO F4 GT)

Some flagship models have hidden screws under decorative plugs (usually next to a USB-C connector or speakers).If you skip this step, the lid will not be removed, and the latches can break.

1. Check the case for stubs. These can be hidden under stickers or rubber inserts (for example, in the Black Shark 5 Pro).
2. Carefully put a spatula or tweezers on the stubs, and underneath them you'll find T3 or T5 screws.
3. Unscrew the screws and put them in a container (they are small and easily lost).
4. Follow the instructions for models with latches or glue (depending on the design).

In Xiaomi Mix Fold 2 and other foldable smartphones, the screws can be hidden under a decorative frame. Without experience disassembling such devices, it is better not to risk - an error will lead to a loss of leakage.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when disassembling Xiaomi, and here are the most common problems and ways to prevent them:

Another common mistake is to try to open a lid with a damaged display, so if the screen cracks, the glass shards can get inside the case and damage the motherboard, and in such cases, it's better to replace the display first, and then disassemble the phone.

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If the lid doesn't sit back tight after removal, check the integrity of the latches. Sometimes they break when they're unassembled, and then you'll need to replace the case.

How to maintain water protection (IP53, IP68) after disassembly

Xiaomi models with IP53 (splash protection) or IP68 (full water resistance) certification have additional rubber pads and adhesive layer. Once disassembled, the leakage breaks and the phone loses protection. Here's how to minimize the risks:

• 🛡️ Use a new glue when you build it. Double-sided scotch will do. 3M 9448A or a special glue for smartphones (for example, Tesa 61395).
• 🔍 Check the rubber seals on the cover and case. If they are damaged, replace them (you can order on AliExpress from the model phone).
• 🧪 Test the leakproofness before use. You don't have to put the phone in water, just check the reaction to a wet wipe at the joints.
• ⚠️ Avoid overheating when re-glued. High temperatures destroy rubber pads.

For models with IP68 (Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Redmi Note 12 Pro+) It is recommended to use ultraviolet glue, which hardens under UV-This will ensure maximum leakage, but even with proper assembly, the manufacturer may refuse warranty repairs if it finds traces of an autopsy.

Models with a unique design: folding and gaming phones

Some Xiaomi smartphones have a non-standard design, which complicates the disassembly.

1. Folding phones (Xiaomi Mix Fold) 2/3)

In these models, the lid is connected to a flexible display and a lot of plumes.

• 🔧 Special screwdriver for microprops (Y00 or PH00).
• 🧲 Suction cups with vacuum pump (normal will not work).
• 🔥 Exact temperature control during heating (not higher than 50)°C).

Without experience, it’s best not to take risks – the cost of repairing a folding screen can exceed half the price of a phone.

2. gaming phones (Black Shark 5 Pro, POCO F4 GT)

These models often have:

• 🎮 Additional screws under decorative panels.
• 🔋 Battery glued to the lid (you will have to carefully separate).
• 🖥️ Liquid cooling system (the tubes can be damaged by a spatula).

Black Shark also has physical triggers on the lid that can be accidentally ripped off. Before disassembling, study the plume layout for your model.

Models with touch buttons on the lid (Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite)

In some phones, touch buttons (Volume, Power) are integrated into the back cover, and if you replace it, you'll have to transfer these elements to a new part, which requires soldering work.

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If your Xiaomi has a non-standard design (folding screen, game triggers, touch buttons), disassembly is better left to professionals.

What to do after successfully opening the lid

When the lid is removed, you'll have access to the internal components.

• 🔋 Replacing the battery is the most common reason for disassembly. Carefully unplug the battery plume, then slap it with a plastic blade (not metal!) in models with adhesive battery (Xiaomi 12, Redmi Note 11 Pro).+) You will need isopropyl alcohol to soften the glue.
• 📷 Cleaning the camera -- if the photos are cloudy, maybe the lenses are dirty. Use a soft brush and a walnut wipe. Don't blow with your mouth -- saliva can get into the optics!
• 🔌 Connector repair – if the phone isn’t charging or doesn’t recognize the headphones, check the connector USB-C Clean it with a toothpick (not metal objects!).
• 📡 Replacement of antenna modules — if the signal of the network deteriorated, the antenna contacts may have moved away. They are located around the perimeter of the housing and are attached to the motherboard.

When you're done, don't rush to collect your phone.

1. Check all the plumes for integrity.
2. Make sure no screws remain inside the body.
3. Wipe the contacts of the battery and motherboard with alcohol (this will improve conductivity).

If you have replaced the battery, give it a rest for 10-15 minutes before charging, which will help stabilize the chemical processes inside the battery.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions