Replacing buttons on Xiaomi smartphones: a complete guide from diagnosis to repair

The control buttons on Xiaomi smartphones are among the most vulnerable: they fail due to moisture, mechanical damage or natural wear. If your Redmi, POCO or Mi has stopped responding to the power button, volume control or even touch keys (for example, on Xiaomi Mi Mix), do not rush to carry the device into the service. In most cases, the replacement can be done yourself - enough of the right tools, patience and accurate follow the instructions.

In this article, we will look at all the stages of repair, from the diagnosis of the problem to the final assembly of the phone. You will learn how mechanical buttons differ from touch buttons, which Xiaomi models break more often (spoiler: Redmi Note 8 Pro and POCO X3 NFC lead in the calls to services), and where to buy quality parts so as not to run into a fake. And if you have never dismantled a smartphone, do not worry: we will describe each step with a photo and warn of typical errors that can turn a simple repair into expensive.

1.Diagnostics: How to tell if a button has really broken

Before disassembling the phone, make sure that the problem is in the button, not in a software failure or damage to the plume. Here are 3 tests to help rule out other malfunctions:

• 🔍 Stick check: press the button several times in a row, and if it fails or returns to its original position with a delay, the mechanism is likely to be contaminated or deformed.
• 💻 Testing through the Engineering Menu: Enter the code ##4636## → Select "Equipment Testing" → If the menu button works and the system doesn't, the problem is the firmware.
• 🔌 PC connection: if the phone is not turned on, but the computer recognizes it (connection sound) USB), So, the power button has nothing to do with it - the battery or motherboard is to blame.

Pay special attention to touch buttons (for example, on Xiaomi Mi 9 or Redmi K20) whose “fault” often involves damage to the display module or detachment of the plume. If the sensor stopped responding after the phone fell, the entire screen will likely need to be replaced, rather than a separate button.

⚠️ Warning: If the phone falls into the water and then the buttons stop working, do not turn it on or press the keys - this can cause a short circuit.

2.Tools and parts: what will be needed to replace

To repair buttons on Xiaomi, you will need a minimum set of tools that can be purchased from any electronics store or ordered from AliExpress.

When buying parts, be sure to check compatibility with your model. For example, the Redmi Note 10 Pro buttons won’t work for the POCO F3, even if they look the same. Always check the article of the part (you can find it in YouTube or on sites like ifixit.com).

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If you buy a button on AliExpress, choose sellers with a rating above 98% and reviews with photos. Counterfeiting often breaks down after 1-2 months due to poor quality plastic or contacts.

3. Step-by-step instruction: how to disassemble Xiaomi and replace the button

The process of replacing the buttons varies from model to model, but the overall pattern is the same. We'll look at a generic algorithm like the Redmi Note 9 Pro (one of the most popular self-repair models), and if you have a different model, look for a YouTube disassembly before you start work.

Turn off the phone and remove it. SIM-map|Make a backup copy of the data (in case of an error)|Prepare the workplace (clean surface, good lighting)|Charge your phone at least 50% (for testing after repair)|Take a picture of each step of the disassembly (helps with the assembly)-->

Step 1 Remove the back cover

Most Xiaomi smartphones have a plastic or glass back panel glued to the body to remove it:

1. Heat the edges of the phone with a hair dryer (temperature ~60 ° C) for 2-3 minutes - this will soften the glue.
2. Insert a plastic mediator into the gap between the lid and the case (start at the corner next to the volume button).
3. Carefully swipe the mediator around the perimeter, separating the lid. Don't force it, you can damage the fingerprint plume!

Step 2. Battery disconnection

When you remove the lid, you first need to turn off the battery, or you're going to run the risk of short circuits when you're working with the motherboard.

1. Unscrew the screws that fix the metal plate over the battery plume.
2. Carefully dent the plume with the mediator and disconnect it from the connector.

Step 3: Replace the button

Mechanical buttons (power, volume) are usually mounted on metal latches or small screws to replace them:

1. Remove the metal plate covering the buttons (if any).
2. Unplug the button plume (if soldered) or simply disconnect the connector.
3. Remove the old button and set a new one, making sure the contacts match.
4. Then, put it in a sleeve or a sleeve.

For touch buttons (such as the Xiaomi Mi A2), the process is more complicated – they are changed along with the display module or a separate plume. If you are not sure about your skills, you better contact the service.

4.Typical mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced wizards sometimes make mistakes when replacing buttons with Xiaomi, here are 5 common problems and ways to prevent them:

• 🔧 Rotor failure: Use a magnetic-tipped screwdriver and don't exert excessive force.Shots at Xiaomi often have soft metal.
• 🔥 Battery plume damage: Always turn off the battery first thing. If you accidentally touch the contacts screwdriver, the phone may burn.
• 🧲 Loss of small parts: Work on a white napkin - it is easier to notice a fallen cog or spring from the button.
• 💧 Moisture on board: Do not use liquid cleaners near the motherboard. Only isopropyl alcohol will work for contacts.
• 📱 Improper assembly: After repair, the phone may not turn on due to an unconnected plume or a forgotten screw. Always check the photos taken before disassembly.

⚠️ Warning: If after changing the button, the phone starts to reboot or warm itself, turn it off immediately.This is a sign of a short circuit - most likely you damaged the contacts on the motherboard.

5. Where to buy high-quality buttons for Xiaomi

The quality of the parts depends on how long the refurbished button will last. Cheap Chinese counterparts often break down after a few months, and original parts can cost 2-3 times more.

• 🛒 Xiaomi official service centers: The most reliable option, but the prices are high (power button for the Redmi Note 11 Pro will cost 800-1200) ₽).
• 🌍 AliExpress (verified stores): Xiaomi Original Parts Store - original parts with warranty. HWS Mobile Parts – quality analogues, often cheaper than the original.
• 🏬 Local parts stores: Search for "Chemas parts [your city]" on request.
• 🔄 Used parts from donor phones: You can find them on Avito or in phone repair teams. Risky, but cheap.

Important: AliExpress often sells "universal" buttons that fit multiple models. These parts rarely work correctly - always check compatibility with your model!

6. Alternative solutions: what to do if the button is not subject to replacement

Sometimes it is not possible or feasible to replace the button (for example, if the motherboard is damaged).

• 📱 Virtual buttons: In Xiaomi settings (Special features) → System navigation, you can turn on touch buttons on the screen, which is good if the physical home or back keys break".
• 🔌 USB-debugging ADB: Using the adb shell input keyevent 26, you can emulate the power button press. USB.
• 🔄 Flashing: Sometimes buttons stop working after updating MIUI. Try to roll back to the previous version of the firmware via Fastboot.
• 🛠️ Repair in the service: If the problem is in the motherboard (for example, the contacts of the button fell off), self-repair is almost impossible - you need a soldering station and experience.

For touch buttons (for example, on Xiaomi Mi 11) there is another life hack: if the sensor stopped working due to damage to the plume, you can connect an external Bluetooth keyboard and assign the Back / Home function to its buttons through applications like Button Mapper.

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If the power button breaks completely and the phone is off, try charging it for 10-15 minutes – sometimes the device turns on automatically when connected to the network.

7. Cost of repair in the service vs. self-replacement

The price of a button change in the service center depends on the phone model and the type of button, and the table below shows the average prices for Moscow and the regions (for 2026):

Self-replacement is cheaper, but keep in mind the hidden costs:

• Buying tools (if they are not available) — ~500–1000 ₽.
• The risk of damaging the phone (for example, to break the screen during disassembly) – repairs will cost 5-10 times more expensive.
• Loss of warranty (if the phone is warranty, disassembly will cancel it).

Is it worth repairing yourself? Yes, if:

• You already have the tools.
• You are confident in your skills (or willing to take risks).
• Phones older than 2 years (no warranty anymore)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)