Replacement of the back cover on Xiaomi Redmi 5: a detailed guide with photos and nuances

Xiaomi Redmi 5 is a popular smartphone of 2017 release, which is still actively used due to its reliability and low price. However, over time, the back cover of the device can crack, peel off or simply lose its presentable appearance. Unlike modern models with monolithic cases, the Redmi 5 has a removable rear panel, but its replacement requires care: under the lid are hidden fragile plumes, adhesive joints and antenna mounts.

This article will help you figure out how to properly dismantle the old lid and install a new one without damaging the internal components. We will cover all the steps from tool preparation to final assembly, and we will also reveal a secret method of softening the factory glue without a hairdryer, which will save you time and nerves. If you have never taken out a smartphone, don’t worry: the manual is adapted for beginners, but with professional life hacks in mind.

Training: tools and materials

Before you start replacing, make sure you have everything you need, and even one tool that is missing can damage the body or the interior.

• 🔧 Plastic blades (2-3 So, you can use metal mediators to scratch the plastic.
• 🔥 A hair dryer or a thermo-air station to soften the glue, even a household hair dryer at maximum power will do.
• 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol (90%+) — Acetone or solvent can't be used, because they'll damage the plastic!
• 📦 New back cover - original (part code: MB000015) Check compatibility with your modification (Redmi 5 or Redmi). 5A).
• 🎯 Double-sided tape or glue B-7000 — Xiaomi's original adhesive is not sold separately.
• 🔋 Battery (optional) – if you plan to replace it at the same time as the lid.

Also, prepare your workspace: a table with good lighting, an antistatic mat (or at least a clean fabric), screw containers. Turn off your smartphone before disassembling, this will prevent short circuits. If the screen is damaged, tape it with tape so that the fragments do not get inside the case.

Step 1: Remove the old cover

The most important step is to remove the back panel, and the main thing is to take your time and follow a clear algorithm:

1. Heat the case. Turn the dryer on at maximum temperature (or set the thermal air station at 80-90 ° C) and evenly warm the back cover for 2-3 minutes. Keep the hair dryer at a distance of 5-7 cm to avoid melting the plastic. It is the cover that needs to be heated, not the screen, that will prevent damage to the display.
2. Scapular scapula tampering. Start at the bottom left corner (near the microUSB connector). Carefully insert the plastic blade into the gap between the lid and the frame and slowly drive it along the body. You will hear the characteristic clicks - these are the latches that detach.
3. The plumes are disconnected. Once the lid is lifted, don't remove it completely. There are fingerprint plumes (if any) and antennas underneath, and you need to carefully disconnect them with a flat screwdriver or tweezers.

If the lid doesn't lend itself, don't force it -- probably the glue hasn't softened enough. Reheat for another 1-2 minutes. Never use a knife or metal objects, which will cut through the plastic or damage the flexible plumes inside.

Secrets of working with glue and fasteners

The factory glue on Redmi 5 is a high-strength double-sided tape that loses its elasticity over time. Here's how to work with it:

• 🧪 Remove old glue. Once the lid is removed, clean the frame and the panel itself of the residues of scotch with isopropyl alcohol. Don't use abrasive materials (scalding, hard brushes) - they will scratch the surface.
• 🔥 Alternative to a hair dryer: If you don't have a hair dryer, put your smartphone on a warm battery or in a warm water bag (temperatures below 60).°C) for 10 minutes. This will soften the glue, but it will work slower.
• 🛠️ Apply new glue. Use double-sided tape to fix the new lid. 3M (0.2 mm thickness) or glue B-7000. Apply it point-by-point along the perimeter, retreating 2-3 mm from the edges, so as not to block the holes for the microphone and speaker.

Note the antenna mounts: on Redmi 5, they are located in the upper and lower parts of the case. When installing a new lid, make sure that the metal contacts of the antennas fit tightly into the frame, otherwise Wi-Fi and 4G signal will deteriorate.

Installation of a new cover: a step-by-step process

Now, to build, it's important to keep the sequence in order to remember to plug in the plumes or to fix the parts.

After installation, place the smartphone under the press (for example, between two books) for 1-2 hours, this ensures that the glue will evenly grasp. Do not turn the device on immediately - let the glue dry.

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If the network signal deteriorates after the cover is replaced, check if the antenna contacts have shifted. Carefully tuck the cover at the top and correct the metal antenna antenna antenna antennas.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when replacing the lid with a Redmi 5, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

• ❌ The reason is: abruptly removing the lid without detaching the plume. Solution: always check if there are flexible cables under the lid.
• ❌ Distorted cover. Cause: uneven pressure during installation. Solution: Start fixing the lid on top of where the buttons are.
• ❌ Bad signal after replacement. Reason: antenna contacts don't touch the frame. Solution: Use a multimeter to check the circuit (if you have the skills).
• ❌ The chips on the new lid. The reason is metal tools. The solution is plastic blades and mediators only.

If the lid creaks or wobbles after you've replaced it, you probably haven't cleaned the old glue enough or used too thin tape, and you'll have to repeat the procedure.

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The rule is, if something doesn't work, don't push! 90% of the damage to the lid is due to excessive force. Better warm up the glue again or check if the plume is disturbing.

What to do if the cover is not original?

The original lids for Redmi 5 are difficult to find, so many people use third-party lids.

• 🔍 The original is made of soft-coated polycarbonate, and cheap ones are often made of hard plastic, which cracks when you fall.
• 📏 Accuracy of cutouts. Check if the camera, microphone and speaker holes match. Even millimeter displacement can lead to problems.
• 🎨 Color. The lids may vary in shade. If the perfect look is important, order from trusted vendors (e.g. AliExpress at 98-rated stores%+).

If you bought a non-original cover, be prepared for the fact that it may hold worse on the glue. In this case, use additional fixing points (for example, glue at the corners) or consider the option with a silicone case that will hide possible gaps.

⚠️ Note: Some unoriginal covers block NFC-Antenna (if your model has one) check with the seller before buying whether the panel supports wireless payment.

After Replacement Testing: What to Test?

After assembly, take your time to close the case — first make sure everything works correctly.

1. Touch screen. Swipe your finger across the display, check for multi-touch (simultaneous touch at multiple points).
2. Volume and power buttons. Press them with different forces, they should not fall through or creak.
3. Camera and flash. Take test shots on the main and front cameras, check the flash.
4. Sound. Turn the music on at maximum volume, so there's no wheezing or distortion.
5. Network and Wi-Fi. Check the signal level (in Settings) → SIM-Maps and mobile networks) and Internet speed.
6. Fingerprint scanner (if any) Add a new print and check the unlock speed.

If at least one of the points works incorrectly, disassemble the smartphone again and check:

• All the plumes are connected.
• Are there cables (especially antenna cables) locked?
• Did you get any glue on the contacts?

⚠️ Warning: If the lid is replaced, the smartphone is discharged faster, check if the battery is going away. When the dryer is heated, its glue could melt, and now the battery does not fit tightly to the body.

FAQ: Frequent questions about replacing the lid with Redmi 5