Introduction: Why you might need to remove the battery
The battery in Xiaomi Redmi 5 is not just a power source, but a key component that depends on the stability of the smartphone. Over time, even the best-quality batteries lose capacity, swell or stop holding charge. If your Redmi 5 suddenly turns off at 30% charge, overheats or deformed the back cover, it's time to think about replacing, but before that, you need to safely remove the old battery without damaging the motherboard or plumes.
Unlike the flagship models with removable covers, the Redmi 5 has a non-shatterable body, which complicates the process. Many users are afraid to disassemble the phone themselves for fear of breaking latches or breaking flexible cables. However, with the right approach and the availability of tools at hand, this task is quite feasible at home, the main thing is to follow a clear algorithm and avoid common mistakes, which we will discuss below.
In this article you will find:
- π§ Step-by-step instructions with photos and videos (if visual assistance is required).
- π οΈ List of necessary tools - from mediator to hair dryer.
- β οΈ Critical warnings that will keep you from short circuit or screen damage.
- π Alternative ways to retrieve if the battery is swelled or glued too much.
Preparation for disassembly: tools and security measures
Before you start disassembling the Xiaomi Redmi 5, make sure you have everything you need. The wrong tool is the main cause of damage to the body or internal components.
- π¨ Plastic mediator or guitar mediator (metal blades scratch the body!).
- π₯ Hair dryer or thermo-air station (for softening the glue, the temperature is not higher than 80)Β°C).
- βοΈ Screwdriver. T3 or T4 (screw-cover).
- π§² Magnetic mat or container (to avoid losing small details).
- π§΄ Isopropyl alcohol 90%+ (glue-cleaner).
- π New battery (if you are planning a replacement, check for model compatibility) MDE6S).
Pay special attention to security measures:
β οΈ Attention! If the battery is swelling (the phone lid is raised), do not use a hair dryer - the risk of fire! In this case, the disassembly is better left to the service center. Also avoid mechanical blows to the battery - lithium-ion cells can ignite if damaged.
Before the start of the work:
- Turn off the phone and remove it. SIM-map + memory card (if any).
- Discharge the battery before 20-30% β This will reduce the risk of short circuits.
- Work on a clean, well-lit surface (it is better to cover the table with a soft cloth).
Step 1: Removing the back cover of Xiaomi Redmi 5
The back cover of the Redmi 5 is mounted on latches and glue, so you need to remove it carefully so that the plastic fixtures do not break.
- Heat the phone edge with a hairdryer (by 30 seconds on each side, at a distance 5-7 Do not direct the airflow to the screen or camera!
- Insert the mediator into the gap between the lid and the case (start with the lower left corner where the SIM card is located).
- Carefully drive the mediator along the edge, gradually snapping the latches. If the lid does not respond, warm up again.
Common mistakes at this stage:
- β Too much pressure from the mediator β lid-crevice.
- β Heating over 80Β°C β plastic deformation or damage to the glue under the battery.
- β Attempt to remove the cover from the top (there are camera plumes and fingerprint scanner!).
Heated the hull around the perimeter.
A plastic mediator is used.
Starting at the bottom left corner
There's no sudden movement.-->
After removing the cover, you will see:
- π Battery (stick to the body).
- πΈ Camera module and fingerprint scanner (attached by plumes).
- π Battery connector (fixed with a small screw).
What to do if the lid is not removed?
Step 2: Disconnect the battery from the motherboard
Before you try to tear the battery off, be sure to disconnect it from the board, which will prevent short circuits and damage to the components.
- Find the battery connector (usually located at the top of the battery, next to the motherboard).
- Unscrew the screw that fixes the connector (use a screwdriver). T3 or T4).
- Carefully put a plastic spatula on the connector and unplug it. Don't pull the wires!
Important nuances:
- π If the connector is "stiff," don't use force. Put some isopropyl alcohol on it and wait. 1-2 minute.
- π Check if there are any small parts near the connector (like capacitors) that are easily hit with a screwdriver.
β οΈ If you accidentally close contacts on the board (for example, with a screwdriver), immediately disconnect the phone from charging and do not turn it on. 10-15 It could save the motherboard from burning out.
After turning off the battery, it is recommended to wait 5 minutes - this will discharge the residual voltage in the capacitors.
π‘
If you plan to stay away from a battery for a long time (for example, to repair a board), seal the battery connector with a tape, which will prevent the contacts from accidentally closing.
Step 3: Removing the battery from the housing
The battery in Xiaomi Redmi 5 is glued to the body with double-sided tape or special glue, it takes patience and accuracy to remove it. There are two main methods:
Method 1: With filament (for intact batteries)
- Tap the battery from any angle with a plastic spatula to create a gap.
- Squeeze a thin nylon thread under the battery (for example, from guitar strings or fishing line).
- Carefully saw the thread under the battery, cutting off the glue. Go from one edge to the other.
Method 2: Heating + shoulder blade (for bloated batteries)
- Heat the body in the battery area with a hairdryer (temperature β 60-70Β°C).
- Insert a plastic blade under the battery and slowly lift it, separating it from the glue.
- If the battery fails, repeat the heat. Don't use excessive force!
What can't be done:
- β Using metal objects (knives, screwdrivers) - the risk of puncturing the battery.
- β Pressing on the center of the battery β this can lead to an internal short circuit.
- β Sharply pull the battery - damage the plumes or connectors on the board.
| Retrieval method | Pluses | Cons | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nylon thread | Minimum risk of damage | Long, requires skill. | Suitable for intact battery packs |
| Heating + spatula | Fast on the bloated batteries | Risk of overheating of components | Use at a temperature not higher than 70Β°C |
| Special glue solvent | Effectively removes glue | It can damage plastic. | Apply point by point, avoiding hitting the board |
π‘
If the battery is swelling, it should not be punctured or bent. Lithium-ion batteries, when damaged, emit toxic gases and can ignite.
Step 4: Cleaning the case after the battery is removed
After the battery is removed, the case will remain glue traces, dust and possible metal sawdust. Don't ignore this stage - the cleanliness of the insides of the phone directly affects its further operation.
For cleaning, you will need:
- π§΄ Isopropyl alcohol (to remove glue).
- π§» Wormless napkin or microfibre.
- πͺ₯ Toothpick or wooden stick (for hard-to-reach places).
Procedure:
- Moisten the napkin with alcohol and gently wipe the place where the battery was glued.
- Remove the glue residues with a toothpick (do not scratch the body!).
- Blow the body with compressed air (such as a canister to clean machinery) to remove dust.
- Check the battery connector on the board - clean it with alcohol if necessary.
If you are planning to install a new battery, it is recommended to use a new two-way Scotch (e.g., a new two-way Scotch, 3M 9448A). Old glue loses its properties and does not provide reliable fixation.
Frequent problems and their solutions
Even with a careful disassembly, there can be unexpected complications, and here are the most common problems and ways to fix them:
Problem 1: The battery does not disconnect from the board
If the connector is "stuck" or deformed:
- π§ Carefully swing the connector to the sides with a plastic shovel.
- π§ Put the alcohol on the base of the connector and wait. 1-2 minute.
- π₯ Heat the connector area with a hairdryer (no higher than 60) easily.Β°C).
Problem 2: The phone lid is cracked
If there are cracks when removing the cover:
- π οΈ Close the cracks with transparent tape (temporary solution).
- π Check if the dust has entered the body.
- π± Consider the option of replacing the cover (cost - from 500 rubles).
Problem 3: The phone doesn't turn on after assembly
If after installing a new battery, the phone does not respond to the power button:
- π Check if the battery connector is properly connected.
- π Connect your phone to the charger on 10-15 Minutes (sometimes it takes time to wake up the power controller).
- π§ If it doesnβt help, the fee may be damaged (diagnosis is needed).
What to do if the battery starts to smoke?
Tips for choosing a new battery for Xiaomi Redmi 5
If you've removed an old battery, you'll probably need a new one, and there's a lot of options on the market, from the original to the cheap ones, and here's what to look for when you're choosing:
- π Original batteries: Marking: MDE6S or BF41. Capacity: 3300 mAh (like the original). Pros: guaranteed compatibility, long service life. Cons: high price (from 1500 rubles).
- π Quality analogues: Brands: Baseus, Remax, ZMI. Capacity: 3200-3500 mAh Pros: cheaper than the original (800-1200 rubles), often with improved performance. Cons: possible problems with calibration of the charge.
- β οΈ Cheap fakes: Price: below 600 rubles. Risks: rapid degradation, bloating, mismatch of declared capacity.
When buying, check:
- π¦ Presence of hologram and factory packaging (in the original battery).
- π Size match (3045 mAh batteries may not fit into the case).
- π Protection against overcharging and short circuit (indicated on the label).
After installing the new battery, be sure to calibrate:
- Charge your phone to 100% and hold on charging for another 1 hour.
- Turn off the charging and discharge until it is automatically turned off.
- Repeat the cycle 2-3 times.