Disassembly of the camera Xiaomi: detailed instructions with photos and expert advice

Disassembling Xiaomi’s camera is a challenge that smartphone owners face when photos fall, dust falls under the lens or the module is mechanically damaged. Despite the apparent complexity, the procedure can be done independently if you act carefully and use the right tools. In this article, we will analyze the step-by-step disassembly algorithm for popular models (Redmi Note 10 Pro, Mi 11, POCO X3, etc.), point out the critical points that 90% of users miss during the first repair, and give recommendations for diagnosing malfunctions.

It’s important to understand that the camera design of Xiaomi smartphones varies depending on the series. For example, flagship models (Mi 12 Pro, 13 Ultra) are equipped with complex multi-module systems with optical zoom, while budget devices (Redmi 9A) have a simplified design. We will focus on the universal stages, but also point out the key differences for different lines. If you have never broken electronics, start with practice on an old device or watch video guides before work.

Preparation: security tools and measures

Before you start dismantling, prepare the workspace and tools.

• 🔧 Set of screwdrivers (cross-cross-haul) PH00, PH0, 1.5 mm flat - for different screws)
• 🧲 Screen suction cup (to separate the front panel)
• 📏 Plastic mediators (or guitar mediators) – to avoid scratching the body
• 🔥 Hair dryer or thermo-air station (to soften glue if screen is glued)
• 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol (90%+) — Cleaning contacts and removing glue residues
• 📦 Organizer for screws (so as not to confuse the fastener during assembly)

Pay special attention to antistatic protection. The smartphone camera contains sensitive chips that can be damaged by a static discharge. Work on a grounded table or use an antistatic bracelet. If you don't have one, regularly touch the metal parts of the Xiaomi body to relieve static stress.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use metal tools to separate the screen or back cover, this will lead to microcracks on the glass or damage to the plumes).

Step 1: Removing the back cover

Most Xiaomi smartphones have a back cover glued to the body to remove it:

1. Turn off the phone and remove it. SIM-memory-card.
2. Heat the hair dryer of the edge of the cover (temperature ~60 ° C) for 2-3 minutes, evenly driving around the perimeter.
3. Insert a plastic mediator into the gap between the lid and the case (start at the corner near the charging connector).
4. Carefully drive the mediator along the edge, separating the glue. Don't force it -- if the lid doesn't lend itself, warm it up again.

The POCO X3 and Redmi Note 9 have a lid attached to the latches + glue, so it's important not to break the plastic latches, but they're located near the volume buttons and the camera, and if you hear the crunch, it means the latches have cracked, and in this case, when you build, use the B-7000 glue for additional fixation.

Heated the edges with a hairdryer (60°C)

I'm using a new plastic mediator.

Started at the corner near the charging socket

I don't use excessive force.

Organizer for screws prepared-->

Step 2: Disconnect the battery plume

When you remove the lid, first of all, turn off the battery.

1. Find the battery plume (usually located at the bottom of the board, marked as BATTERY).
2. Put a plastic spatula or tweezers on the connector. Don't use metal.
3. Carefully pull the plume up - it should come out of the nest.

If you don't turn off the battery, short circuits when working with the board can disable the power controller or camera. In Xiaomi Mi 11 and newer models, the battery plume is protected by an additional film that you need to remove to access the connector.

⚠️ Note: Xiaomi boards often have capacitors next to the battery connector. If you accidentally hit them with a metal tool, they can swell.

Step 3: Dismantling the camera module

The camera module in Xiaomi is attached to the motherboard through a flexible plume and screws.

1. Remove the metal protection (if any) – it is attached to 2-4 screws (PH00).
2. Disconnect the camera plume. Carefully examine the connector: in some models (Mi 10T), it is fixed by a latch that you need to lift.
3. Unscrew the screws that hold the module (usually 3-5 pieces). Xiaomi often uses screws of different lengths - remember which one from where.
4. Carefully apply the module with a plastic blade. If it is glued, warm up with a hair dryer (max. 50 ° C).

In multi-module cameras (e.g., the Mi 11 Ultra with the main + periscopic camera), the plumes can be paired. Don't pull at the same time - unplug in turns, starting from the top. If the plume breaks, it can be replaced, but this requires soldering with a microscope (better contact the service).

Step 4: Cleaning and Diagnosing the Camera

After dismantling, inspect the module for:

• 🔍 Dust under glass - if it is visible in the photo as dark spots.
• 💧 Moisture or corrosion - a sign of fluid intake (requires a replacement module).
• 🔨 Cracks on the lenses – even microcracks worsen the quality of shooting.
• 🔌 Oxidized contacts on the plume - clean with isopropyl alcohol.

Do not disassemble the lens yourself to clean, it requires special equipment.

1. Blow the dust from the outside glass with a pear (not a mouth!).
2. Wipe the glass with a microfiber wipe soaked in alcohol.
3. If the dust is under the glass, the module must be depressurized in the service.

💡

Before assembly, take a picture of the location of all the plumes and screws on the board, which will save you from errors when you reverse install, especially if the repair took several days.

Step 5: Reverse Assembly and Testing

Collect your phone in reverse order, following the rules:

• 🔩 Screw the screws cross-curl to avoid distortions.
• 🧩 Connect the plumes to fix the module screws - so it is easier to correct their position.
• 🔋 Before turning on, check that the battery plume is connected tightly.
• 📱 After assembly, turn on the phone and test the camera in Settings → The phone. → Diagnostics.

If the camera does not work after assembly:

1. Check if the plume is connected to the end (sometimes it “steps away” when the lid is fixed).
2. Restart your phone – sometimes the system doesn’t recognize the module right away.
3. Update the firmware through Settings → System Update.
4. If the problem persists, it may be the plume or the camera itself that is damaged.

💡

The most common build error is a loosely fixed camera plume, and even a microscopic gap leads to artifacts in the photo or complete module failure.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes when disassembling Xiaomi cameras.

• 🔧 Mixed screws – for example, a long screw instead of a short one can damage the board.
• 🔥 Overheating with a hair dryer - if the temperature is above 70°C, the glue melts too much, and the lid later may deform.
• 💥 Sharp compartment of plumes - you can not pull for them, only carefully tuck with the edge.
• 📵 Forgotten disconnected battery is the risk of short circuit when working with the board.

To minimize the risks:

• Work under good lighting (better with a magnifying glass).
• Use a magnetic rug for screws so they won’t get lost.
• If you are not sure of your abilities, practice on a non-working phone.

⚠️ Note: In Xiaomi liquid metal cooled models (such as Black Shark 4), if you disassemble the heat pipes in a careless manner, it will overheat the processor and reduce performance.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi camera disassembly