Replacing the camera on Xiaomi smartphones is a challenge that owners face after mechanical damage, factory defects or a desire to upgrade the module. Unlike replacing the battery or display, working with the camera requires special care: The slightest lens shift or plume damage can result in loss of autofocus, artifacts in the photo, or complete module failure. In this article, we will examine the entire process from fault diagnosis to final calibration, taking into account the nuances for different series (Redmi Note, POCO F, Mi 11 and others.).
It is important to understand that modern Xiaomi smartphones are often equipped with multi-module cameras (main) + wide-angle + Macro/telephoto), and replacing one element may require reconnecting all the plumes.In addition, some models (e.g. Xiaomi 13 Ultra) have optical stabilization (OIS), If you're not sure about your skills, you should go to a service center, but if you're going to do it yourself, follow our instructions with all the warnings.
1. Diagnosis of malfunction: when is replacement needed?
Before disassembling the phone, make sure the problem is in the camera, not the software.
- πΈ Blurred pictures at any settings (even in manual mode) β lens shift or lens damage is possible.
- π Black screen in the camera application when the display is running - often indicates a plume break or the module fails.
- π Artifacts (stripes, spots, color distortions) β may be caused by damage to the matrix or contamination of internal elements.
- π Autofocus does not work β if cleaning the lens did not help, the focus motor may break.
To avoid programmatic failures:
- Restart your phone in Safe Mode (click the power button) β long tap on "Switch off" β "Restarting in Safe Mode").
- Check the camera through third-party apps (such as Open Camera or GCam).
- Reset the camera settings in Settings β Annexes β Camera. β Warehouse β Clear the data.
β οΈ Warning: If the camera stops working after falling or getting moisture, do not turn on the phone - this can cause a short circuit.
2. Selection of a new camera: original vs. analogue
The right replacement depends on 80% of the success. Xiaomi cameras are divided into three types:
| Type of module | Advantages | Deficiencies | Price (average) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original (OEM) | 100% compatibility, maintains the quality of the photo, no problems with the software | It is hard to find for old models. | 2 500 β 8 000 β½ |
| Analogue (high-copy) | Cheaper than the original, often identical in characteristics | May not support all functions (e.g. night mode) | 800 β 3 500 β½ |
| B/w (from disassembly) | Low price, original quality | Risk of hidden defects, short service life | 500 β 2 000 β½ |
Where to buy:
- π AliExpress is cheap, but long wait (look for sellers rated 98%+).
- π§ Local service centers are original parts, but the price is higher.
- π¦ Disassembly (Avito, Yula) β used modules, check the performance before buying.
Before buying, be sure to check the exact camera model. 10 Pro exists. 3 Part number is usually shown on the original module in the format XX-XXXXXX-XX (for example, 69-02345-01). If youβre not sure, use services like GSMArena or Xiaomi Firmware Updater to check compatibility.
β οΈ Note: Some models (Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra, POCO F4 GT) They are protected from unoriginal parts, and after replacement, the camera can only work in base mode (without any other option). HDR, Before buying, check this point with the seller.
3. Replacement tools: what will be needed
To disassemble Xiaomi and replace the camera, you will need:
Screen suction cup (diameter 5-7 cm)
Plastic mediators (0.1β0.3 mm)
Screwdriver cross (PH00 or PH0)
Screwdriver flat (1.5-2 mm)
Tweezers with curved ends
Dryer or thermo-air station (for glue)
Isopropyl alcohol (90%+)
Microfibre and napkins without pile
Multimeter (to check contacts)
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In addition, for some models:
- π₯ Thermopaste β if the camera is glued to the radiator (relevant for flagships like Xiaomi) 12S Ultra).
- π§² Magnetic substrate - so as not to lose small screws.
- π loope USB-microscope - to check the contacts of the plume.
Where to buy tools:
- π οΈ Kits for repairing smartphones on AliExpress (cost from 300) β½).
- π¬ Radio parts stores (for example, Chip and Deep").
- π§ Service centers (sometimes rent out tools).
Professional advice: If youβre first disassembling a smartphone, practice on a non-working device or watch disassembly videos for your model on YouTube (Xiaomi Repair or Fixez channels). Pay special attention to the type of attachment of the plume β new models often use latches that are easy to break.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the camera
The disassembly process varies depending on the model, but the overall sequence of actions is as follows:
Step 1: Power outage and preparation
Turn off the phone and remove it. SIM-If the battery is non-removable (as in most modern Xiaomi), work carefully so as not to damage it. For models with adhesive screen mounting (for example, Redmi Note 11), warm up the edges with a hairdryer (temperature 60-70)Β°C) for 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Removal of the back cover
Insert a plastic mediator into the gap between the lid and the housing (start with the area next to the power button). Carefully drive the mediator around the perimeter, separating the lid. In models with an aluminum frame (for example, POCO F3) Be careful β the cover may be glued especially hard.
What to do if the lid fails?
Step 3: Disabling the camera plume
When you remove the lid, you'll see a metal screen covering the board. Unscrew the screws (usually 4-6 pieces, size). PH00) And take the screen off, and the camera plume is on top of the board, and it's locked with a latch to disconnect it:
- Carefully lift the latch with tweezers (do not pull the plume!).
- Remove the plume at an angle of 30-45 degrees.
- Check the contacts on the board and the plume for oxidation (clean with alcohol if necessary).
Step 4: Dismantling the old module
The camera is attached to the board with screws (usually 2-4 pieces) and/or double-sided tape (OIS) After removing the module, inspect the socket on the board - if there are corrosion stains or damaged tracks, you may need to repair the board.
Step 5: Installation of a new camera
Before installation:
- π§Ή Cleanse the seat of dust and glue residue.
- π Check if the connectors on the new module and board match.
- π οΈ If the camera is attached to glue, apply a thin layer of heat glue (for example, B-7000).
Set the module in reverse order, making sure the plume is not twisted or stretched. Screw the screws cross-cross to avoid skewing.
Step 6: Assembly and testing
After assembly:
- Connect your phone to charge (donβt turn it on right away!).
- Press the power button for 10-15 seconds to reset the static charge.
- Turn on the device and check the camera performance in the standard app and through GCam (if supported).
π‘
If the camera is working after the replacement, but the photos are blurry, try calibrating autofocus. To do this, select Testing from the engineering menu (#4636##) β Camera and perform autofocus test.
5. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to re-disassembly or damage to the phone.
- π Damage to the plume - never pull it, just the latch! If the contacts are bent, straighten them gently with tweezers.
- π© Twisted screws can cause cracks on the board. Use a screwdriver with a torque limiter.
- π§² Lost screws β Xiaomi often uses screws of varying lengths. Take a picture of their location before disassembling.
- π± Dust falling under the lens -- even one mottling can ruin the whole photo.
Critical error: ignoring contact checks after replacement. In 30% of cases, a broken camera after replacement is associated with oxidation of the contacts on the board, not with a defect in the module. Always clean the contacts with alcohol and check them with a multimeter in "vertebrae" mode.
β οΈ Warning: If the camera is working after the replacement, but the phone is overheating or discharged quickly, you probably damaged the heat pad between the camera and the processor.
Calibration of the chamber after replacement
Even if the new camera is physically fit, it may need to be programmed, especially for models with:
- π Laser autofocus (Xiaomi Mi 10 Ultra, POCO F2 Pro).
- π Multi-module system (wide-angle) + telephoto).
- π― Optical stabilization (OIS).
Calibration methods:
| Method | For which models? | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering menu | Most of Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO | Enter ##4636## β Testing β Camera β Calibration. |
| Manual Camera Application | Models with manual focus setting | Install the application, open the focus settings and calibrate according to the instructions. |
| Firmware through Fastboot | Flagships (Mi) 11/12/13) | Download the firmware and run the camera module through the Mi Flash Tool. |
If the calibration didnβt help, it may be a problem with firmware incompatibility. For example, after replacing the camera with the Redmi Note 9 Pro, you may need to roll back to an older version. MIUI. Check the forums 4PDA or XDA Developers β there are often laid out patches for specific models.
π‘
If the camera is working after the replacement, but the photos are green or purple, this indicates a malfunction. IR-This defect is not fixed software-based, you'll need to replace the module.
7. Alternative solutions: when replacement is not needed
In some cases, the camera problem is solved without disassembling the phone.
- π Resetting camera settings: go to Settings β Annexes β Camera. β Warehouse β Clear the cache/data.
- π± Firmware update: sometimes camera bugs are fixed in new versions MIUI. Check for updates in Settings β The phone. β Updating the system.
- π οΈ Replacement of camera glass: if the problem is only scratches on the outside glass, it can be replaced separately (cost) ~500 β½).
- π§ Train repair: if the camera is periodically shut down, the contact of the plume may have gone away.
If you suspect a software failure, try flashing your phone through Fastboot with a complete data cleanup.
fastboot flash all [name firmware].zip
fastboot erase userdata
fastboot rebootβ οΈ This will remove all data from your phone, so make a backup copy first!