How to disassemble Xiaomi Redmi 4X Note: a step-by-step guide

Xiaomi’s Redmi series is well-deservedly popular for its excellent value for money. However, even reliable devices require maintenance over time: replacing broken glass, a worn battery, or repairing charging connectors. The Redmi 4X (often mistakenly called the Redmi 4X Note because of its similarity to the Note series) has a fairly simple design, making it affordable for self-repair with basic skills and tools.

Before you start disassembling the case, you need to clearly understand that any interference with the device can lead to loss of warranty. If your smartphone is still in warranty service, it is better to contact an authorized service center. Otherwise, this instruction will help you carefully dismantle the device without damaging the plumes and plastic latches.

The dismantling process requires attention to detail, as the internal components are tightly packed. Mishandling plumes or using excessive force can lead to irreversible damage to the motherboard. We will look at each step in detail to minimize risks and successfully repair your gadget.

Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools

The success of any repair operation depends on 50% proper preparation. You will need to organize a clean, well-lit space where small screws and parts are not lost. The ideal solution is to use a magnetic mat or special organizers for screws, since the fasteners in Xiaomi smartphones can have different lengths and threads.

To work with the Redmi 4X, you'll need a standard set of mobile electronics wizard tools. Don't try kitchen knives or thick screwdrivers - they're guaranteed to damage the case. A specialized tool provides accuracy and reduces the risk of slipping.

  • πŸ”§ Set of screwdrivers: mandatory presence of a cross screwdriver PH000 or PH00 hull-screw.
  • 🎴 Plastic blades (spoogers): necessary to open the body without scratches.
  • 🌑️ Dryer or heating platform: required to soften the adhesive holding the display module.
  • 🧲 Magnetic holder or containers: for sorting screws by disassembly stages.

Pay special attention to lighting. Dim lights can be a cruel joke when you disconnect miniature connectors, and it is also recommended to remove metal jewelry from your hands to avoid static electricity, which can theoretically damage electronic components.

β˜‘οΈ Checking readiness for repair

Done: 0 / 4

Primary dismantling: Removal of the back cover and battery

Unlike many modern smartphones with all-metal non-collapsible body, the design of the Redmi 4X allows you to start with the removal of the rear panel. However, if you have a modification with a metal body or plan to replace only the display, the process may be different.

⚠️ Warning: Before starting any work, be sure to completely turn off the smartphone. Attempting to disconnect the plumes when power is on can lead to a short circuit and failure of the power controller.

If the back cover is removable, gently tuck it in a special recess next to the camera. If the lid is glued (in some revisions or after unskilled repairs), it should be warmed with a hairdryer. Don't hold the hairdryer too close so as not to melt the plastic. After heating, use a suction cup and plastic card to separate the panel.

Once you remove the lid, your next step is to turn off the power supply, find the battery connector and gently unplug it from the motherboard, a critical step that shuts down the device and makes it safe for electronics to continue.

Next, you have to unscrew all the visible screws that lock the plastic frame or the protective screens, and they can vary in number, but usually there are about 10-12 pieces around the perimeter and in the center, and fold the screws in the order of their extraction, so that when you build them, you don't confuse the length.

Disassembly of the main part and disconnection of plumes

Once the screws are removed, you need to remove the middle plastic frame that protects the main components. It can be attached to the latches, so be careful when you walk the perimeter with a plastic blade. A characteristic click will tell you that the latches are open. Don't use excessive force, because the plastic in the old devices becomes brittle.

Under the frame, you'll see the motherboard, the main camera, the speaker and connectors. It requires maximum concentration. All connections in the Xiaomi Redmi 4X are made in the form of press-down connectors. Use a plastic blade or nail to turn them off, putting the connector vertically upwards.

  • πŸ”Œ Disconnect the display plume: a wide connector, usually located closer to the center of the board.
  • πŸ“· Turn off the main camera plume: located next to the display connector.
  • πŸ”Š Disconnect the lower board plume (with microphone and charging connector): a long plume running along the body.
  • πŸ“‘ Remove the antenna module: if it interferes with access to other components.

Once all the plumes are turned off, the motherboard can be removed, it can be further fixed by screws or inserted into slots, you can raise the board carefully, checking if any wire or antenna is caught, and the motherboard is the most expensive and sensitive element that requires careful care.

Nuances of plumes in Redmi 4X
In some Redmi 4X revisions, the display plume and touchscreen are combined into one module, in others they are separated. When buying a part, always check the article that is compatible with your version of the board. The wrong plume may not work or burn when you connect.

Replacement of the battery and work with adhesive base

In the Redmi 4X, the battery is often placed on double-sided tape. If you are planning to replace it, do not try to rip the battery out with metal objects.

To safely extract, use heating. Heat the back of the smartphone (if the battery is still inside) or the battery itself through an open frame with a hair dryer to a temperature of 40-50 degrees. The glue will soften, and you can tuck the battery with a plastic card or special tape.

ParameterMeaning/DescriptionImportance
Capacity4100mAh (standard)Tall.
Type of attachmentGlue base + plastic frameCritically.
Heating temperatureNot more than 60Β°CMedium
Risk of damageHigh (when using metal)Critically.

Once the old battery is removed, clean the seat of the old glue residue with alcohol or a special solvent, and the new battery should also be fixed to double-sided tape so that it does not dangle inside the case when it falls, which will ensure the reliability of the contacts.

⚠️ Attention: If the battery is swelling, do not press it or bend it. Bloating indicates a violation of the chemical processes inside, and mechanical impact can cause a fire.

πŸ“Š What most often fails in Redmi 4X?
Screen's broken
The battery sat down.
Charging's not working.
Dynamic problems

Dismantling of the display module and touch screen

The hardest part of the Xiaomi Redmi 4X repair is replacing the broken screen, and the display module is glued around the perimeter to the plastic frame of the case, and it requires uniform heating of the front panel to remove it.

Use a building hair dryer, warming the edges of the screen for 2-3 minutes. The temperature should not exceed 80-90 degrees, otherwise you can damage the matrix (you will see yellow spots) or melt the plastic frame. After heating, use a suction cup to create a gap, and insert a thin plastic card or string.

Move a card or string around the perimeter, cutting the glue layer. Act smoothly, without jerking. The display plume can be short, so don't move the screen far away from the body until you disconnect the connector. In some cases, it's easier to remove the entire frame with the display, and then separate the glass from the frame on a separate table.

When installing the new module, be sure to use a quality adhesive B-7000 or E-8000. Apply it with a thin strip along the perimeter of the frame. Excess glue, protruding out, easily removed with a roller after drying. Let the glue grip for 15-20 minutes before turning on the phone.

πŸ’‘

Use rubber harnesses or stationery gums to tightly press the new screen against the frame while the glue is drying, which will ensure uniform fit and no gaps.

Device assembly and primary diagnosis

The assembly is done in reverse sequence. But there are some nuances here. The main rule is not to twist the screws until the device has been tested, build a constructor without.final fixation, plug in the battery and display, and try to turn on the phone.

If the smartphone is turned on, check the main functions: the touchscreen (take the test finger to all corners), the sound speaker, the microphone, cameras and Wi-Fi. Only after making sure that all modules work correctly, you can proceed to the final fixation of the screws and closing the case.

  • πŸ” Make sure all plumes are inserted before the characteristic click.
  • πŸ”© Don’t pull over the screws – the plastic cracks easily.
  • 🧹 Make sure there is no dust or villi under the screen.

If you don't turn on after you build it, don't panic. There's probably a connector that's gone or it's not been fully inserted. Take it apart again and reconnect all the plumes. Often, the problem is that you have poor contact.

πŸ’‘

Final check of operability of all modules before twisting of screws saves hours of time on re-disassembly in case of detection of defect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I take out the Redmi 4X without a hairdryer?
Technically, you can if the back cover is removable and the screen has not been glued before, but to replace the display, heating is mandatory, because the factory glue is very durable. Trying to crack the cold screen will result in 100% damage to the matrix or plastic frame.
Which glue is best used for the screen?
The best choice is the B-7000 glue, which remains elastic after drying, which will make it easier to disassemble, and fills in the bumps well. Superglue (cyanacrylate) cannot be used, it hardens, crumbles and can damage the plastic in the next repair.
Why does the screen not work after the screen change?
The most likely cause is that the touchscreen plume is not fully inserted or skewed, and it's also possible that you damaged the plume or connector on the board during the disassembly, and in rare cases, the new part may be defective.
Do I need to remove the protective film from the new battery?
Yes, you must! New batteries often have transparent insulation film on their contacts, and if you don't remove it, the phone won't charge or even turn on because there's no contact with the board.
How long does it take to disassemble the Redmi 4X?
For an experienced craftsman, the process takes 15-20 minutes. For a beginner doing the first dismantling, you should set about 40-60 minutes, given the time to carefully peel off the screen and find the right screws.