How to disassemble Xiaomi Redmi 5: step-by-step instructions

Sooner or later, the owner of the popular budget smartphone Xiaomi Redmi 5 is faced with the need to look inside the case. Whether it is replacing a broken screen, a swollen battery or just wanting to clean the device from dust, the procedure requires accuracy and understanding of the design. This model, released in late 2017, has a classic metal body that involves certain nuances during dismantling. Unlike modern glass “scapula”, here the main fastener are screws and plastic latches, which makes the process relatively predictable, but requires care.

Before you start taking action, it's important to be aware of the risks. Any dismantling of electronics involves removing warranty seals, if they still exist, and takes responsibility for the integrity of the components. However, if you're willing to act carefully and have the right tool at hand, it's quite possible to restore the functionality of the gadget at home. Next, we will discuss each step in detail, from the preparation of the workplace to the final assembly.

Tools and workplace preparation required

Quality training is half the success of any repair. You don't need a professional lab to work with Redmi 5, but a minimum set of specialized tools is required. Using improvised tools like knives or pins can damage plumes or scratches on the frame, so you'd better get a basic set of masters.

First of all, make sure you have good lighting. Small screws and connectors are not visible in dim light, which increases the risk of error. Organize the space so that nothing interferes with your movements, and all the parts can be arranged in a certain order.

• 🔧 Set of screwdrivers: mandatory presence of cross PH000 and a small flat screwdriver.
• 🔥 Hair dryer or thermophen: necessary to heat the adhesive base of the display and soften the sealant.
• 💳 Plastic card or mediator: for neat opening of the case without damage to the plastic.
• 🧲 Magnetic mat or organizer: for sorting screws of different sizes, so as not to confuse them when assembling.

⚠️ Note: Before starting any work, be sure to turn off the device and remove SIM-card and memory card. Working with the battery on increases the risk of short circuit.

Removal of the back cover and removal of the battery

The process of dismantling Xiaomi Redmi 5 begins with the removal of the rear panel. Unlike many modern models, here the lid is not glued around the perimeter, but is held on latches and several screws under plugs, which makes it easier to access the insides, but requires accuracy when working with plastic, which over time becomes more fragile.

First, flip your smartphone over and find two small rubber plugs at the bottom of the case, and underneath them are the screws that hold the lid, and then you can unscrew them and then you can start to gently snap the plastic around the perimeter, and you can move slowly, using a plastic blade, so you don't break the mounts.

When the lid is removed, you will see the battery pack and board, and note that the battery in this model is glued to the body, and it is strictly forbidden to try to tamper with metal objects or make excessive efforts, since damage to the lithium polymer cell can lead to fire.

Disconnection of plumes and removal of the motherboard

The motherboard is the brain of your Redmi 5, and access to it requires special care, and it is closed by a metal screen, which in turn is screwed by several screws to the middle frame, before removing the board itself, you need to turn off all the plumes coming from the display, buttons and camera modules.

The plumes in Xiaomi smartphones are usually fixed with clamping slats. First, unscrew the screws holding these slats, and only then carefully lift the connectors with tweezers. You can't pull the plume itself - you can damage the conductive tracks. All movements must be smooth and directed upwards.

Once you've turned off all the connections, unscrew all the visible screws that attach the board to the case. The number can vary depending on the modification, so carefully inspect the perimeter. You can then remove the board by taking the edges of the board, trying not to touch the contacts.

• 📱 Main plume of the display: wide and flat, located closer to the center.
• 🔌 Touchscreen plume: often goes by separate wire or combined with the main.
• 🔋 Lower plume (buttons): connects the board to charging and microphone connectors.
• 📸 Camera plumes: front and rear cameras have their own connectors.

⚠️ Warning: When installing the board back, make sure that all the plumes are inserted before the characteristic click and fixed with clamping slats. Unpressed connector is a common cause of a broken touchscreen or microphone.

Replacement of the display and touch screen

Replacing a broken screen is one of the most common causes of disassembly. In the Redmi 5, the display module (matrix + glass + frame) is often changed in assembly, which makes it much easier. However, if you change only the glass or matrix separately, the process becomes jewelry and requires experience.

To remove the old module, you need to warm up the screen perimeter with a hairdryer. The glue softens at about 60-70 degrees. Don't hold the hairdryer at one point for too long so as not to overheat the matrix or plastic frame. After warming up, use a suction cup and a mediator to separate the module.

When installing a new module, be sure to clear the frame of the residue of old glue. The new module usually already has an adhesive base (B-7000 or double-sided tape). Carefully combine the module with the frame, making sure that the holes under the speaker and the camera match, and press tightly at the edges.

It's important to check the touchscreen and the image before the final assembly and screws are twisted. Connect the plumes, turn on the phone and check the response to touch at all corners of the screen, which will save you time to re-disassemble in the event of marriage.

Maintenance of charging connectors and speakers

The bottom of the Xiaomi Redmi 5 housing contains a Micro-USB connector (or USB-C in some revisions), a microphone and a main speaker. These components often suffer from moisture, dust and oxidation. Disassembly allows you to clean them properly or replace them when they break.

The charging connector is usually soldered on a separate substrate board or is part of the bottom plume, and to replace it, you need to unscrew the screws that fix this assembly and disconnect the plume from the main board. When installing a new component, make sure that it sits tightly in the seat.

The speaker and microphone are often clogged with dust, making you hard to hear or the sound becomes quiet. Carefully remove these modules and clean them with a soft brush soaked in alcohol. The compressor purge is also effective, but be careful with the pressure so as not to damage the speaker membrane.

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If after cleaning the charging connector, the phone still does not see the cable, try gently bend the central language inside the connector (when the phone is turned off!) - sometimes it just fuses.

Assembly of the device and verification of functionality

The final stage is assembly. It's done in reverse order, but it requires a lot of concentration. The main mistake of the beginners is rush. The twisting of the screws "by eye" can cause one of them to rest on the board or other components, causing a crack or a circuit.

First, put the motherboard in place and lock all the screws. Then plug all the plumes from the main display to the buttons. Make sure the pinch bars are back in place. Then you can plug the battery in and check the device's power on.

If the phone is on, check all the modules: camera, Wi-Fi, sound, vibration. Just make sure that you are fully working, apply glue to the back cover (if necessary) and snap it. Let the glue dry for a few hours before active use.

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The key to successful assembly is not to force the connections, and if the part doesn't fit in, you've missed something or mistook the orientation.