Replacement of the keyboard on Xiaomi Redmi 6A: instructions with photos and expert tips

Xiaomi Redmi 6A remains a popular budget device even years after its release. One of the common problems faced by owners is the failure of the touch keyboard (touchpad) or physical buttons (if we are talking about mechanical keys in rare versions). The causes of failure vary from banal wear to moisture or falls. Self-replacement of the keyboard with the Redmi 6A is possible, but requires accuracy and preparation.

In this article, you'll find step-by-step photo instructions, a list of tools you need, troubleshooting tips, and answers to frequent questions. We'll also look at when to go to the service center and when you can repair at home. The Redmi 6A feature is a touchscreen, so changing the keyboard often involves working with the on-screen module.

Signs of Keyboard Failure on Redmi 6A

Before you start repairing, make sure that the problem is in the keyboard.

  • πŸ”Ή Individual buttons do not respond (for example, the Home or Back key does not work")
  • πŸ”Ή Hanging or β€œfloating” taps – the smartphone spontaneously opens applications or enters symbols
  • πŸ”Ή Complete lack of response to touch (if we are talking about touch keyboard)
  • πŸ”Ή Visual damage: cracks on glass, detachment of the touch screen

Sometimes the problem isn't the keyboard, it's the software failure.

  1. Restart the device (Plug the power button for 10 seconds).
  2. Reset the settings to factory (Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Recovery and Reset).
  3. Test the sensor with special applications (for example, Touch Screen Test from Google Play).

⚠️ Warning: If the smartphone fell into water or was subjected to severe vibration, the malfunction may be due to the oxidation of contacts on the motherboard.In this case, replacing the keyboard will not help - you will need to clean the board.

πŸ“Š What is the fault of your keyboard on Redmi 6A?
Mechanical damage (fall, impact)
Moisture intrusion
Wear after long service
Software failure
I don't know, I need a diagnosis.

Replacement tools and materials

To replace the keyboard with Redmi 6A, you will need:

Tool/materialAppointmentWhere to buy
Plastic mediator (or guitar mediator)Separation of the shell without scratchesElectronics stores, AliExpress
Cross screwdriver (PH00 or PH0)Screwing of screwsAny hardware store
Screen suction cupSafe separation of the display moduleSmartphone repair kits
New keyboard (touchscreen or button module)Replacement of a faulty elementAliExpress, local service centers
Isopropyl alcohol (90%+)Cleaning contacts from dust/oxidationPharmacies, radio electronics stores

When buying a new keyboard, pay attention to model compatibility. Redmi 6A is suitable modules labeled M1804C3CG or M1804C3CH (depending on the region). If you replace the touch screen, take a full display module (touchscreen + matrix), as they are soldered together.

⚠️ Attention: Cheap Chinese keyboards may have poor sensor calibration. If the screen becomes less responsive to touch after replacing, check the settings in Settings β†’ Display. β†’ Sensitivity of touch.

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Before buying a spare part, check it for authenticity: the original Xiaomi parts have a hologram on the package and a serial number that matches the number on the module.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the keyboard

The process of replacing the keyboard with the Redmi 6A involves disassembling the body, disabling the plumes and installing a new module. Follow the instructions carefully so as not to damage other components.

Step 1: Turn off and prepare the smartphone

  • πŸ”‹ Turn off the phone (Plug the power button). β†’ "Turn it off").
  • πŸ”Œ Extract. SIM-card and memory card (if any).
  • πŸ”₯ Heat the back cover with a hair dryer (temperature) ~50Β°C) during 1-2 minutes, it'll soften the glue.

Step 2: Disassembly of the hull

  1. Insert a plastic mediator into the gap between the back cover and the body (start at the bottom edge where the connectors are located).
  2. Carefully swipe the mediator around the perimeter, separating the lid. Don't force it, there may be latches inside.
  3. Remove the lid and put it aside.

Step 3: Shutting off the battery

Before working with internal components, be sure to disconnect the battery:

  1. Find the battery plume (usually covered with black tape).
  2. Put a plastic blade on the connector and gently disconnect it.

β˜‘οΈ Safety during disassembly

Done: 0 / 4

Step 4: Replace the keyboard (touchscreen)

If you are replacing the touch screen:

  1. Heat the display with a hair dryer (temperature ~60Β°C) around the perimeter for 3-5 minutes.
  2. With a suction cup, lift the screen on one side and carefully separate it with a mediator. Don't pull too much -- there are plumes underneath the screen!
  3. Disconnect the display and touchscreen plumes (they are usually secured with latches).
  4. Install the new module in reverse order by connecting the plumes.

If you replace physical buttons (such as the Home button):

  1. Remove the metal plate that covers the buttons (it is attached to the screws).
  2. Remove the old button and set a new one, making sure the contacts match.
What to do if the new touchscreen does not work?
Check the density of the plumes, they may not have fully fit into the connector, and make sure you don't damage the flexible cables when you install them, and if the problem persists, try reconnecting the battery and turning on the phone.

Step 5: Assembly and inspection

After replacement:

  • πŸ”§ Secure all screws and latches.
  • πŸ”‹ Connect the battery and turn on the phone.
  • πŸ“± Check the keyboard with Touch Screen Test or standard gestures.

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If the phone doesn't turn on after assembly, check the connection of the display plume and battery. A common error is a skewed connector that doesn't contact the board.

Frequent errors when replacing the keyboard

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to new breakdowns, and this is what you can't do when you replace your keyboard with a Redmi 6A:

  • 🚫 Using metal tools to separate the body – this scratches the plastic and can damage the plumes.
  • 🚫 Overheat the screen with a hair dryer (above 70)Β°C) - this spoils the adhesive base and can melt plastic parts.
  • 🚫 Pull on the plumes, they're fragile and they break easily. Always pick up the connector, not the cable itself.
  • 🚫 Ignore contact checks after assembly. Even if the screen is turned on, the keyboard may not work due to poor contact.

Another common problem is getting dust under a new touchscreen, which leads to dead zones or sensor malfunction, so to avoid this, replace it in a clean, well-lit room and use an antistatic mat.

When is the best time to go to the service center?

Not all keyboard failures can be repaired by yourself.

  • πŸ”§ You are not sure about your skills – a mistake in disassembly can lead to damage to the motherboard.
  • πŸ’§ The phone got into the water – requires cleaning the board with ultrasound and replacing oxidized elements.
  • ⚑ The problem is not the keyboard, but the board (for example, only a part of the buttons does not work due to chip damage).
  • πŸ”„ You’ve tried to replace the keyboard, but the problem remains.

The cost of replacing the keyboard in the service for Redmi 6A ranges from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles (depending on the region and type of keyboard).If you buy the part yourself, the repair price will be lower. However, keep in mind that the warranty for work in the service is usually 1-3 months, while for self-repair, the risks remain on you.

How to extend the life of the keyboard on Redmi 6A?

To avoid repeated breakdowns, follow simple recommendations:

  • πŸ›‘οΈ Use a protective glass - it reduces the load on the touchscreen when falling.
  • 🚿 Avoid moisture – even a little humidity can cause contact oxidation.
  • πŸ”„ Regularly clean the connectors from dust with a brush and isopropyl alcohol.
  • πŸ“± Do not press the screen with excessive force – this deforms the touch layer.

If you drop your phone frequently, consider a case with shock absorbing inserts. Redmi 6A is suitable models from Spigen or Ringke, which protect the corners and screen from impact.

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If the keyboard started to "glue" after the MIUI update, try to roll back to the previous version of the firmware. Sometimes software bugs affect the sensor.

FAQ: Frequent questions about replacing the keyboard with Redmi 6A

Can you replace the sensor without touching the screen?
No, the Redmi 6A has a touchscreen and a display soldered into one module, so if you damage the sensor, you have to change the entire screen unit, except for mechanical buttons (like Home or Back), which can be replaced separately.
How long does it take to replace the keyboard?
If you have experience, about 30-40 minutes. If you're doing it for the first time, you need to stock up on 1-1.5 hours.
Where to buy the original Redmi 6A keyboard?
Original parts can be found on AliExpress (sellers with a higher rating) 98% Compatibility with Redmi 6A). In official Xiaomi service centers (but the price will be higher) in local stores of radio parts (check availability by model) M1804C3CG/CH).
What if the keyboard works after the replacement, but the screen flashes?
This is a sign of poor contact of the display plume. Turn off the phone, disassemble it, and check: The density of the plume in the connector, the integrity of the flexible cable (are there any tears), the purity of the contacts (wipe with alcohol if necessary), if the problem remains, it may be damaged motherboard.
Can I use a phone with a broken keyboard?
Yes, but with limitations: Connect USB-mouse-wise OTG-Adapter, this will allow you to control the phone. Use voice input (includes in Settings). β†’ Install a remote control app (e.g. TeamViewer QuickSupport) but this is a temporary solution, and without repair, the functionality of the phone will be severely limited.