How to open the back cover of Xiaomi Redmi Note 8

The broken back window of a smartphone is not only an aesthetic problem, but also a risk of moisture or dust getting inside the device. Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 model features a glass back panel that is attached to a special glue, which makes the dismantling process require carefulness and preparation. Many users are afraid to start repairing themselves for fear of damaging the internal components or battery, but with the right tool and knowledge, this procedure can be performed at home.

Before starting work, it is important to understand that disassembling the case will void the official warranty if it is still valid. In addition, the glass panel is a fragile element, and if handled carelessly, can crack even more, leaving fragments on the frame. In this article, we will discuss in detail how to safely remove the back cover, what tools will be required and how to avoid common errors that often lead to damage to the plumes.

The glass replacement process takes 15 to 30 minutes if you take your time and keep the temperature warm. The Redmi Note 8 has a standard interior layout where battery access is opened immediately after the rear panel is removed. This makes it easier to disassemble the entire phone, unless your goal is to replace the case or check the battery.

Tools and workplace preparation required

To make a good repair, it's not enough to have the desire to fix a device; you need a specialised toolkit to keep the process safe and the parts that are left intact; and you don't want to use tools like knives or needles, because they can damage the battery or puncture it, causing it to burn.

First of all, you need a heat source. Professionals use a thermostele, but a single repair is a normal temperature-adjusted dryer or even a heating pad, the main thing is to warm the perimeter of the case evenly to soften the adhesive base, and suction cups will also be indispensable, which allow you to create a vacuum grip on the glass and carefully pull it away from the frame after heating.

  • πŸ› οΈ Sets of screwdrivers: you will need a cross screwdriver PH000 or PH00 screw-twisting.
  • πŸ”₯ Dryer or thermophene: to heat the adhesive layer around the perimeter of the back panel.
  • πŸ’³ Plastic blade or mediator: to separate glass from the frame without damaging metal.
  • 🧴 Clay. B-7000 or E-8000: special adhesive for gluing the new back cover.
  • 🧀 Protective gloves: not to leave greasy marks on the new glass and not to hurt themselves against fragments.

Prepare a clean, well-lit workplace. Cover the desk with a soft cloth or silicone mat so that the fallen screws don't get lost or parts get scratched. Turn off the phone in advance and remove the tray SIM-cards, if it interferes with access to the screws, although in this model the tray is on the side and does not overlap the screws of the lower face.

The process of heating and separation of the rear panel

The most critical step is to remove the old glue correctly. The rear window of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 fits tightly to the metal frame, and trying to remove it "cold" is guaranteed to break. The heating should be uniform: drive a hairdryer around the perimeter, lingering at the corners where the glue is usually the most.

⚠️ Warning: Do not heat the central back too intensely, especially if there is a fingerprint scanner underneath. Overheating can damage the scanner module or cause the battery to bloat β€” 80-90 degrees, keep around 2-3 minute.

Once the body has warmed up, attach the suction cup to the bottom of the glass, closer to the center, but not to the very edge. Pull the suction cup up, creating a small gap between the glass and the frame. At this point, while holding the tension, carefully insert a plastic card or a spatula into the resulting slit. Do not use metal objects, as they can break the glass or damage the backlight plume, which often passes close to the edges.

Move the shoulder blade along the perimeter, gradually cutting the adhesive layer. If you feel strong resistance, stop and warm up the site again. The rush here is inappropriate: it is better to spend an extra two minutes heating than to break a new lid when you install or damage the frame. Move around until all sides are free of the glue.

πŸ“Š How badly your back cover is broken?
Just a crack in the corner.
Completely in the web.
Shards fall out
I'm fine, but I want to change color.

Disconnection of plumes and removal of protective plates

When the back cover is completely separated from the body, don't try to open it like a book right away. Inside the device are plumes connecting the main board to the modules on the back, in particular the fingerprint scanner and the camera module, and a sharp movement can break these thin conductors, which will cause the phone's functions to fail.

Carefully lift the edge of the glass and look at the insides, and you'll see a metal plate covering the battery and the bottom of the board, and it's fixed by multiple screws, you'll need a cross screwdriver to twist them out, and the screws may vary in length, so it's recommended that you lay them out in the order you've twisted them, or use a magnetic mat with markup.

Once the metal shield is removed, the connectors will be accessed. Before you completely remove the lid, you need to turn off the fingerprint scanner plume. It's usually located in the top or center and connected to the main board or satellite board. Use a plastic blade or nail to gently lift the connector up. Don't pull the wires!

  • πŸ”Œ Battery shutdown: First, disconnect the battery plume to shut off the device and avoid short circuits.
  • πŸ“Έ Camera module: If the camera plume passes through the lid, it must also be gently deactivated.
  • πŸ‘† Fingerprint scanner: the main plume that most often prevents the complete removal of the back panel.
  • πŸ”Š Speaker: in some versions, the speaker is attached to the back cover, check its connection.

Only after you turn off all the wires, you can completely remove the back cover, and if you change the glass to a new one, you now have to move the fingerprint scanner and maybe the logo from the old lid to the new one, and the glue under the scanner also needs to be warmed up to remove the module without damage.

β˜‘οΈ Pre-assembly check

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Cleaning the frame and preparation for installation

Installing a new back cover on the remnants of old glue is a gross mistake that will lead to loose fit and dust. The phone frame must be thoroughly cleaned of all adhesive residues. You can use isopropyl alcohol or a special solvent for glue applied to a napkin without pile.

Work carefully so that the liquid does not get inside the case on the board. If the old glue is frozen with a thick layer, it can be gently tampered with a plastic card. The surface of the metal should become smooth and fat-free, this will ensure maximum adhesion of the new adhesive layer and tightness of the body.

Also check the state of the frame itself for deformities. If the phone fell, the metal could bend, and the new glass will simply not stand in place or will burst when pressed. If necessary, align the frame carefully with your hands or tool, but without undue effort.

Work segmentTool.Implementation timeRisks.
Heating the hullFen/Thermostole2-3 minutesBattery overheating
Glass separationSuction + spatula5-7 minutesDamage to plumes
Clearing the frameAlcohol + napkin.3-5 minutesMoisture intrusion
Applying glueTube B-70002 minutesPollution of the chamber

After cleaning, wipe the inside of the new back cover with an alcohol wipe to remove factory dust and fingerprints. The cleanliness of the surfaces is a guarantee that the phone will look like new and there will be no backlashes.

Installation of a new cover and finishing assembly

Before applying the glue, check again how the new cover stands, it should fit perfectly around the edges, apply a thin layer of glue B-7000 or E-8000 on the phone frame, do not apply too thick glue, otherwise when pressed, it will leak out and stain the glass or camera lenses.

⚠️ Warning: Avoid getting glue on the main camera lenses and flash. If this happens, remove the glue immediately before it freezes, otherwise the quality of the photos will be hopelessly spoiled.

Connect the fingerprint scanner plume and other modules to the board. Make sure the connector is snapped. Carefully stack the wires so they don't get pulled and put pressure on the lid. Then combine the new back panel with the frame and press tightly around the perimeter. For better fixation, you can use rubber bands, wrapping the phone in a circle for 15-20 minutes until the glue is grasped.

Put the metal plate back in place and twist all the screws. Don't pull them over so you don't rip the threads off the plastic racks. After you build, turn on your phone and check the fingerprint scanner, the touch screen, and the cameras.

What if the fingerprint scanner doesn’t work after replacement?
Often the problem is a poorly connected plume or a damaged contact pad. Try to disconnect and reconnect the connector. If it didn't work, it's possible that the scanner module was damaged when it was removed from the old lid and needs to be replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I remove the back cover of the Redmi Note 8 without a hair dryer?
The glue used by Xiaomi is very durable. Without heating, you will either shatter the glass to pieces or damage the frame and internal components in an attempt to tear the panel apart by force.
Which glue is better to use to glue the cover?
The best choice is special adhesives for electronics, such as the B-7000, B-8000 or T-7000, which remain elastic after drying, which is important for cushioning, and allow you to reopen the phone if necessary.
Will the phone be waterproof after the lid is replaced?
No, factory tightness is achieved with special equipment and precision adhesive, and home repairs can only provide basic protection against dust and splash, but you can't submerge your phone in water after that.
How much does the glue dry after installation?
The primary grip occurs in 15-30 minutes, but the glue gains full strength within 24 hours. On the first day, it is advisable not to expose the phone to stress and temperature changes.

πŸ’‘

If you accidentally drop glue on the camera lens, don't rub it right away. Let it dry a little, then roll your finger gently or take it off with tweezers. The liquid glue will smear and create a cloudy film.

πŸ’‘

The secret to success is patience. Don't rush off the lid, warm up the glue well, and always turn off the battery before working with the plumes.