Xiaomi monopods are popular accessories for selfies, video and camera stabilization, but even these sometimes require disassembly. The reasons can range from contamination of the mechanism to break buttons or malfunctioning Bluetooth module. However, disassembling monopods is not as easy as it seems, many users face hidden latches, fragile plastic elements and the risk of damage to internal contacts.
In this article, you will find step-by-step instructions for disassembling the most common Xiaomi monopod models (including the Mi Selfie Stick, Mi Pocket Tripod and Mi Extension Rod), as well as tips for fault diagnosis and assembly. We took into account typical beginner errors and added photos of key steps to ensure that the process goes smoothly. If your monopod stops responding to buttons, does not hold your smartphone or does not sync with your smartphone, this guide will help identify the problem.
Preparation for disassembly: tools and precautions
Before you start disassembling, make sure you have everything you need, and without the right tools, you risk damaging the body or breaking the screw threads, and here's the minimum set:
- π§ A set of screwdrivers (cross PH00 and flat 1.5 mm β most Xiaomi monopods are assembled on such screws).
- π§² Magnetic mat or screw container (so as not to lose small details).
- πΈ Smartphone for photography (fix every stage of disassembly β this will help with the assembly).
- π§΄ Isopropyl alcohol (70%+) and cotton swabs for cleaning contacts.
- π Loop or magnifying glass (for inspection of small details, such as spring contacts).
Pay special attention to the disassembly site: work on a clean, well-lit surface. Avoid carpets or soft coatings - a lost screw can be a serious problem. If the monopod is waterproof (for example, Mi Selfie Stick 2), check if there is moisture inside - this can lead to corrosion of the contacts.
β οΈ Warning: Don't use metal tools to smack plastic latches -- it leaves scratches. Better get a plastic shoulder blade or a guitar mediator.
The scheme of dismantling the monopod Xiaomi: step-by-step instructions
The process of disassembly varies from model to model, but the overall pattern is similar. We'll look at the universal algorithm with the Mi Selfie Stick 2, one of the most common models, and if you have a different version, note the differences in button mounting and Bluetooth module.
Step 1 Removal of the top cover with smartphone mount
- Unscrew the two screws on the back of the mount (usually under rubber legs).
- Carefully tuck the plastic cover with a spatula - it is held on the latches.
- Disconnect the plume connecting the downhill button and the Bluetooth module (if any).
Step 2. Disassemble the handle
- Remove the rubber lining on the handle (it can be on glue or just sit tight).
- Unscrew 3-4 screws under the lining (in some models they are hidden under stickers).
- Divide the body into two halves, starting from the junction near the power button.
Step 3: Removal of the electronic board
- Unplug or disconnect the battery contacts (if any).
- Carefully remove the board with a Bluetooth module, do not pull the antenna.
- Check the integrity of the spring contacts on the buttons β they often bend.
βοΈ Checklist before disassembly
Some models, like the Mi Pocket Tripod, instead of using screws, use latches around the perimeter of the body, and you need to press them in sequence, starting from the corners, and if the body doesn't respond, don't force, otherwise you'll break the plastic.
β οΈ Warning: In monopods with built-in battery (e.g. Mi Selfie Stick Power Bank), be sure to discharge the battery to 0% before disassembling - this will reduce the risk of short circuit.
Typical malfunctions of Xiaomi monopods and how to fix them
Once you've taken a look at the monopods, you might encounter a few common problems, and their causes and solutions are shown in the table below:
| Malfunction | Possible cause | Elimination |
|---|---|---|
| The trigger button is not working. | Oxidation of contacts, plume break, microswitch breakage | Clean the contacts with alcohol, check the integrity of the plume, replace the button |
| Monopod is not synchronized with smartphone | Battery discharge, Bluetooth module firmware failure, antenna damage | Charge/replace the battery, reflash the module, check the soldered antenna connections |
| Welding of the telescopic mechanism | Infection of sand or dirt, deformation of plastic guides | Disassemble, clean and lubricate the mechanism with silicone lubrication, straighten the guides |
| Unintentional shutdown | Poor battery contact, power charge malfunction | Bending the contacts of the battery, check the voltage stabilizer on the board |
If the problem is in a Bluetooth module, you can try to reflash it with AT- commands through the UART- port (if there is one on the board), you'll need a USB-TTL adapter and a program like Tera Term. However, without soldering experience, you'd better trust a specialist to do it.
How to check the efficiency of the Bluetooth module?
Cleaning and lubrication of the mechanism: extending the service life
One of the main causes of monopod breakdowns is contamination of the telescopic mechanism, sand, dust and moisture get in through the cracks and eventually block movement, and to avoid this, it is recommended to clean the monopod every 3-6 months (depending on the intensity of use).
How to clean properly:
- Disassemble the monopod before accessing the telescopic tubes.
- Remove the old lubricant and dirt with a cotton swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
- Blow the mechanism with compressed air (for example, a canister to clean the keyboard).
- Apply silicone lubrication (not oil!) to the guide and threaded connections.
Don't use WD-40 or machine oil for lubrication, they attract dust and thicken over time. The best option is a silicone grease in a spray (like Liqui Moly Silicon-Spray), apply it in a thin layer, remove the excess with a napkin.
π‘
If the monopod is used on the beach or in dusty conditions, after each shooting wipe the telescopic part with a wet napkin and let it dry in the decomposed state.
Replacing the battery in the monopod Xiaomi: what you need to know
In models with built-in batteries (such as the Mi Selfie Stick Power Bank), the battery eventually loses capacity. If the monopod starts to discharge quickly or does not hold charge, it is time to replace it.
- Disassemble the case before access to the battery (usually it is glued or secured with double-sided tape).
- Unplug the battery contacts or disconnect the connector (depending on the model).
- Install a new battery of the same size and voltage (usually 3.7V, 100-300 mAh capacity).
- Seal contacts, isolate them with a shrink tube or tape.
Important: don't use batteries from other devices, even if they look similar. For example, the battery from the fitness bracelet may have a different charge controller, which will lead to overheating.
β οΈ Warning: When soldering the battery, don't overheat it, it can cause swelling or even fire. Use a soldering iron with a power of no more than 30 watts and work quickly.
Monopod assembly: how to avoid mistakes
It's often harder to assemble monopods than to disassemble them -- especially if you haven't photographed the process.
- π Check the location of all plumes - they should lie loose, without tension.
- π Make sure that the battery contacts are not closed (e.g., metal housing).
- πΆ The antenna of the Bluetooth module should not touch metal parts, which degrades the signal.
- π§ Screw the screws cross-cross to avoid skewing the body.
After assembly, check the performance:
- Connect the monopod to your smartphone and check the synchronization.
- Multiple times decompose and fold the telescopic part β the movement should be smooth.
- Press the downhill button 10-20 times β it should not get stuck.
If the monopod does not work after assembly, disassemble it again and check:
- Integrity of plumes and contacts.
- Correct battery connection (plus to plus, minus to minus).
- Absence of foreign objects inside the body (for example, a forgotten screw).
π‘
The most common build error is the entangled screws of different lengths, which can damage the board or jam the mechanism. Always sort the screws into groups during disassembly.
Where to buy spare parts for monopod Xiaomi
If you need original parts (buttons, plumes, batteries or boards), look for them in the following places:
- π Xiaomiβs official service is guaranteed quality, but high price and long delivery.
- π AliExpress is a big choice, but check the seller's reviews. Look for coded parts (e.g., MDY-11-EMMC for the Mi Selfie Stick 2 board).
When buying, pay attention to:
- Model compatibility β for example, the Mi Selfie Stick 1 button is not suitable for the Mi Selfie Stick 2.
Average cost of spare parts (for 2026):
- The trigger button is 150-300 β½.
- Bluetooth module: 500-1200 β½.
- Battery: 200-400 β½.
- The plume is 100-250 β½.