A broken display on a smartphone is not just an aesthetic defect, but a serious obstacle to comfortable use of the gadget. Xiaomi Redmi 5, released in late 2017, is still popular due to a successful combination of price and quality, but over time its matrix or protective glass can become unusable. Self-replacement module can significantly save the budget compared to the use of an authorized service center, where the cost of work can reach half the price of the device itself in the secondary market.
Before you start dismantling, it is important to understand that the process requires accuracy, a special tool and basic electronics skills. In this article, we will examine each step in detail, from choosing a quality spare part to final assembly of the body. Careful adherence to the sequence of actions will help to avoid damage to plumes, acbs or other internal components, which often suffer from inept disassembly.
It's worth noting that in this model, the display module is a single structure where the glass and the matrix are soldered in the factory. It's almost impossible to change the glass or the matrix separately at home without specialized separation equipment. So we're going to be talking about completely replacing the module in the assembly, which is the most reliable and durable solution to the problem.
Diagnosis of faults and selection of components
The first step is always to make an accurate diagnosis. If you see cracks on the surface, but the image is clear and the sensor reacts instantly, then only the protective glass is damaged. However, if you see spots, stripes, broken pixels or the sensor stopped responding to touch, then the IPS matrix itself or the touchscreen control plume failed. In both cases, the Xiaomi Redmi 5 will need to replace the entire module assembly.
When choosing a new part in the parts market, you will encounter three main types of screens: original (Original), top quality copies (High Copy) and budget options (AAA quality). Original parts often have the MI marking or brand logo on the plume and provide better color reproduction. Budget counterparts can differ in thicker frames and worse viewing angle, which is critical for this model.
Pay attention to the connection connector. Redmi 5 uses a standard connector, but the location of screw holes and cameras can vary slightly in cheap copies. Before buying, be sure to compare a photo of your old part with a picture of the product in the store.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid buying modules with low-quality double-sided tape already pasted. Cheap glue can melt from heat of the processor and stain the internal components or frame of the case.
Tools and workplace preparation required
To successfully carry out repairs, it is not enough to simply have a new screen at hand. You will need a specialized set of tools that will allow you to open the case without damage. The standard set of home craftsmen is often insufficient, since the screws in Xiaomi smartphones can have a custom hat.
Organize your workspace so that it's well lit. Small screws and plumes are very easy to lose or damage if you work in dim light or on a vitriolic surface. Use a magnetic mat or just a piece of paper with painted cells to sort the fastener by the dismantling stages.
Here is a list of tools that are guaranteed to be needed in the process:
- 🔧 Set of screwdrivers (mandatory presence of cross-haired) PH000 and flat screwdriver).
- 🔥 A hair dryer or hot water heater to soften the glue under the back cover.
- 💳 Plastic card or mediator for opening the case.
- 🧲 Magnetic holder for screws (so as not to lose microscopic bolts).
- 🧹 Isopropyl alcohol and wiltless napkin for cleaning frames.
The process of disassembling the Xiaomi Redmi 5 body
Start with the tray extraction. SIM-This is a must-do step, as the screw holding the back cover is often hidden deep in the tray opening. Use a clip or key from the kit to pull the tray out, and look carefully inside the socket.
Then comes the most critical point: the detachment of the back cover, which is glued around the perimeter to a double-sided tape, heat the edges of the device with a hairdryer to a comfortable temperature for the hand (about 60-70 degrees), do not overheat the center of the smartphone, so as not to damage the battery or processor.
Carefully insert a mediator or plastic card into the gap between the frame and the lid. Drive the tool around the perimeter, gradually snapping the latches. Do not use metal objects, as they can easily split the glass of the back panel or damage the plume of the fingerprint scanner.
☑️ Checklist before lid removal
When you remove the lid, the first thing you do is turn off the battery, and the battery plume is under a protective plastic bar that's screwed up by a few screws, unscrew the bar, unplug the connector, and then you continue to disassemble, and that will prevent short circuits from accidentally touching other plumes.
Replacement of the display module and plumes
Now that the insides are open, you have to dismantle the old frame with the display, and it's mounted around the perimeter with lots of screws, and you have to unscrew all the bolts you see, and you're looking at their length -- some of them may be longer than others, and it's important not to confuse them when you build them.
Remove the speaker board (bottom board) as the main display plume passes through it. Bend or remove the board carefully to access the connector. Disconnect the display plume and touchscreen from the motherboard by swiping them with a plastic blade.
Transfer of the main components to the new module:
- 📸 Main camera module: carefully remove the camera from the old module, trying not to touch the lens with your fingers.
- 🎧 Auditorial speaker: it can be glued or framed, check its integrity before installation.
- 🔌 Control plumes: if there are additional boards on the old screen (rare for this model, but it happens), glue them to a new place.
Put the new module in a frame, making sure it sits tightly at the edges. Connect the plumes to the motherboard before the characteristic click. Don't screw the board right away -- check the health first.
⚠️ Attention: The plumes in Redmi 5 are quite thin.Push strictly in the center of the connector when connected, avoiding pressure on the edges so as not to break the contact paths.
Comparison of screen characteristics of different manufacturers
Not all displays are the same, even if they are physically fit, and the differences may be in brightness, color reproduction, and bezels thickness, and here's a table to help you understand what to expect from different types of arrays.
| Characteristics | Original (Original) | Copy (High Copy) | Budget (AAA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brightness | Tall, even. | Medium | Low, there could be spots. |
| Thickness of the framework | Standard. | A little wider. | Wider, wider, the glass protrudes. |
| Sensor responsiveness | Instant. | Good. | Possible delays |
| Viewing angle | Great. | Medium. | Image inverted |
As you can see from the table, saving on the budget version can lead to discomfort when using. If you plan to use the phone daily, you better choose the High Copy option or search for the original.
Why are the new screens blue or yellow?
Device assembly and final inspection
Before you turn all the screws and glue the lid, you need to do a test turn on, plug the battery, plug the display and press the switch on. If the phone vibrates and the image appears, you're on the right track.
Check the touchscreen across the screen by swiping your finger through the icons, make sure the front camera and proximity sensor are working (the screen should go out when you reach the ear during the call), and only after a successful test can you start the final assembly.
Apply a new double-sided tape onto the frame of the case. Make sure it covers the entire perimeter, but does not cover the speakers or microphones. Carefully press the back cover, starting at one of the corners, and swipe your fingers around the edges to fix.
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Use stationery gum to tightly press the lid against the body for 15-20 minutes after assembly, which will provide better adhesion of the glue and prevent cracks.
Rotate all the screws in reverse order. Pay special attention to the screws around the charging connectors and headphones, which are often of different lengths.
Common Errors and How to Resolve Them
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes. One of the most common problems after assembly is a broken touchscreen or no image, most often due to poor plume contact, disassemble the device again and wipe the connector contacts with alcohol or eraser.
If the screen is working, but the sensor is "glutching" or not responding at the edges, you may have twisted the frame screws, putting pressure on the matrix. Relax the fastener and check again. Also, static electricity may be the cause, so work with antistatic gloves or periodically touch the grounded object.
If the phone is turned on but the image is missing (black screen when the backlight is running), check if the connector is completely latched. Sometimes you need to press it with moderate force until you click.
⚠️ Warning: Never leave the battery plugged in unless you plan to use the phone in the coming days.This can cause deep discharge and battery bloating.
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A high-quality screen replacement extends the life of Xiaomi Redmi 5 for another 2-3 years of active use, making the purchase of a new device unnecessary.