Disassembly Xiaomi Mi 2: from the back cover to the motherboard

Xiaomi Mi 2 is the legendary smartphone of 2012, which is still used by enthusiasts thanks to the ability to upgrade to MIUI 10 and install custom firmware. However, as you age, the device requires repairs from replacing the charging connector to restoring the display module. Disassembly Mi 2 has its nuances — fragile latches, glued battery and the risk of damage to the plumes.

This article will help you disassemble the machine without damage, even if you are doing it for the first time, we will look at the necessary tools, phased dismantling of all components and give tips on how to avoid typical errors, and we will focus on the unique design of the Mi 2 with an aluminum frame, which makes it difficult to access the insides.

Preparation: security tools and measures

Before dismantling the Xiaomi Mi 2, prepare the workplace. Use a table with good lighting and an antistatic mat, which will protect the motherboard from static electricity. All screws and small parts, fold in separate containers or glue on tape to a sheet of paper with signatures.

Minimum set of tools:

• 🔧 Plastic blade (2-3 pieces) for disconnecting latches
• 🔩 The screwdriver. PH00 (rear-cover)
• 🔋 Suction (to remove the display, if required)
• 🧲 Tweezers with curved ends (for working with plumes)
• 🔥 Hair dryer or thermal air station (to soften battery adhesive)

If you are planning to replace the battery, you will additionally need isopropyl alcohol (90%+) to clean the glue residue and bilateral tape or B-7000 glue to fix the new element.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use metal tools to crack the lid - the Mi 2 aluminum frame is easily scratched. Also avoid overheating the body with a hairdryer: temperature above 80°C may damage the display module.

Step 1: Removing the back cover

The back cover of the Mi 2 is mounted on 8 screws under the cross screwdriver. PH00 And 4 plastic latches. Start by turning off your phone and retrieving it. SIM-cards and memory cards (if installed:

1. Unscrew all the screws around the perimeter of the lid (do not lose them - they are of different lengths!).
2. Insert a plastic blade into the gap between the lid and the frame near the charging connector.
3. Carefully swipe along the body, snapping the locks. Start at the bottom, there are weaker latches.

If the lid fails, don't force it, check if all the screws are twisted. SIM-map.

Step 2: Shutting off the battery

Once you remove the lid, you'll see the battery glued to the body, and the first thing you do is unplug the plume from the motherboard, and you'll put a plastic blade on the connector, and that will prevent you from short-circuiting as you disassemble it further.

To remove the battery:

1. Heat the body with a hair dryer (temperature 60–70°C) for 1-2 minutes to soften the glue.
2. Tap the battery with a plastic card or spatula, starting at the corner near the camera.
3. If the battery does not go away, reheat it and add a few drops of isopropyl alcohol under the edge.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use sharp objects to remove the battery - risk of puncture and fire! Bloated battery requires special care: disassemble in protective glasses and outdoors.

Once removed, clean the case of residual glue with alcohol. The new battery is fixed to double-sided tape or B-7000 glue, avoiding contact.

Step 3: Dismantling the motherboard

The Mi 2 motherboard is mounted on 6 screws and connected to the body by several plumes before being removed:

• 📱 Disconnect the display plumes, cameras and buttons (they are fixed by latches - lift them upwards).
• 🔊 Remove the vibration motor by soldering it off or disconnecting the connector (depending on the modification).
• 📡 Unscrew antenna contacts near the charging connector.

The motherboard screws are of different lengths, remember their location or take a picture. Once you remove the board, wrap it in an antistatic film.

Step 4: Disassemble the display module (if necessary)

If you need to change the glass or display, be very careful. The Mi 2 is glued to the frame, and its dismantling can damage the plumes.

1. Heat the screen with a hair dryer (70–80°C) around the perimeter for 3–5 minutes.
2. Stick the suction cup to the bottom of the display and pull up.
3. Insert a plastic spatula into the resulting gap and slowly lead it along the body.

The display and sensor plumes are hidden under metal protection - don't pull the screen too hard to tear them off.If the glass is cracked, paste it with tape before heating to avoid shrapnel.

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To separate the display, use a thin guitar string (0.1–0.2 mm) instead of a shoulder blade - it evenly cuts through the glue without the risk of damage to the plumes.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes when disassembling the Xiaomi Mi 2.

• 🔧 Shooting the screws, use a good screwdriver, and don't use excessive force. If the screw doesn't go, drop it. WD-40.
• 🔥 Overheating of the battery - do not heat it for more than 2 minutes in one approach. Optimal temperature is 60-70°C.
• 📱 Trail damage – always lift connector latches up before removing the plume.
• 💧 Getting alcohol on board - clean the case away from electronic components.

Another common problem is the wrong assembly when you forget to connect the antenna contact or the camera plume. Always check the photos taken before disassembly.

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90% of the damage to the Xiaomi Mi 2 is due to haste, and take at least 1-1.5 hours to complete the process, especially if you’re doing it for the first time.

Assembly and performance check

Collect your phone in reverse order, following the rules:

• 🔩 Screw the screws cross-curl to avoid skewing the board.
• 🔌 Connect the plumes only after the full fixation of the motherboard.
• 🔋 Before installing the battery, check the voltage with a multimeter (should be 3.7–4.2V).

After assembly, turn on the phone and check:

• 📶 Network operation (SIM-map, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).
• 🔊 Speaker and microphone sound.
• 📷 Functionality of the cameras.
• 🔋 Charging the battery.

If the device is not turned on, check:

• Connecting the power supply plume to the motherboard.
• Battery integrity (whether there is swelling or damage).
• Correct installation of the power button.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the dismantling of Xiaomi Mi 2