Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 is one of the most popular smartphones in the budget segment, released in 2017. Despite the strength of the case, over time, many users need to disassemble the device to replace the battery, clean the dust, repair the speaker or camera. However, removing the back cover of this model has its own nuances: it is not removable in the usual sense, but glued to the frame. Wrong actions can lead to damage to plumes, chips of plastic or even failure of the fingerprint sensor.
In this article, you will find three working methods for opening the Redmi Note 4 cover (including 3/32GB, 4/64GB and Redmi Note 4X versions), a list of necessary tools, as well as unique tips for preventing damage to flexible plumes, which are not in the standard instructions, we will also understand when you can disassemble yourself, and when it is better to contact the service center.
Preparation for disassembly: what you need to know before the beginning
Before you start removing the lid, consider: Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 has a monolithic body with a glued back panel. Unlike newer models (for example, Redmi Note 8 Pro), there are no removable latches, only glue and sealant, which means that for disassembly you will need:
- π§ Plastic mediators (or guitar mediators) 0.2β0.4 mm thick β metal instruments will damage plastic.
- π₯ Dryer or thermo-air station (at least 1000 W) for softening the adhesive.
- π§΄ Isopropyl alcohol 90%+ β Removing glue residues and cleaning contacts.
- π± Suction cups (optional) - help to evenly lift the cover after heating.
Important: If you are disassembling a smartphone to replace the battery, buy a battery adhesive tape (for example, 3M 9448A or analogues). the original Xiaomi adhesive loses its properties after removing the lid, and re-adhesive without a new layer will lead to a backlash of the case.
β οΈ Warning: Don't use a knife or screwdriver to jack the lid! In Redmi Note 4, the fingerprint sensor plume runs right under the back panel at the top left corner. Damage to this plume will render the scanner inoperable.
Method 1: Heating a hair dryer + plastic mediators (the safest)
This is a method that works for most users and minimizes the risk of damage, and the idea is to heat the adhesive evenly around the body, and then carefully separate the lid with mediators.
- Turn off your smartphone and remove it. SIM-Heat the dryer to 70-80.Β°C (not higher so as not to damage the display!).
- Direct the hot air flow to the bottom of the case (where the charging connector is located) and hold for 1-2 minutes. Then move the hair dryer to the top (near the camera) and repeat the heating.
- Insert a plastic mediator into the gap between the lid and the frame at the charging connector, carefully swipe it along the side face, gradually lifting the lid.
- Once the lid is raised by 2-3 mm, move the mediator to the top (near the camera) and repeat the procedure. Do not try to remove the lid completely immediately - the glue may be unevenly heated.
If the lid doesn't respond, heat it up again, paying attention to the corners. The main thing is to take your time. On average, the process takes 10-15 minutes.
Heat the body to 70-80 Β° C evenly along the perimeter |
Use only plastic mediators |
Start at the bottom (charging connector)|
No force - only smooth separation |
Check the fingerprint after removal-->
Method 2: Use of suction cups (for experienced users)
This is a good way to use a smartphone suction cup (such as an iPhone repair kit) to distribute the effort evenly, but it requires caution:
- Stick the suction cup to the bottom of the lid (above the Xiaomi logo).Make sure the surface is clean and dry.
- Carefully pull the suction cup upwards, creating a small gap. Put a plastic mediator in it.
- Swipe the mediator along the side faces, gradually detaching the cover. If necessary, use a hair dryer to further heat the glue.
The advantage of the method is that there is less risk of damage to the plumes, because the force is distributed evenly. However, if the suction cup is unstuck sharply, the lid can crack, and we recommend combining this method with a heating hairdryer.
β οΈ Warning: Do not use household suction cups (for example, for the kitchen) - they are too large and can damage the camera glass.The optimal diameter of the suction cup for the Redmi Note 4 is 30-40 mm.
Method 3: Disassembly without heating (risky, only as a last resort)
If you don't have a hair dryer or mediators, you can try to separate the lid mechanically, but it's fraught with damage, only suitable for emergencies (for example, if the smartphone does not turn on and you need to urgently remove). SIM-map).
You'll need:
- π Toothpick or wooden stick (not metallic!).
- π§ Cold compress (you can use ice in the package).
Instructions:
- Put your smartphone in the freezer for 10-15 minutes (the glue will become more brittle).
- Pull out the device and immediately insert the toothpick into the gap at the charging connector. Carefully tap it with a hammer (easy!) to create a microcrack in the glue.
- Repeat the procedure along the side faces, gradually lifting the cover.
β Cons of the method:
- High risk of chipping plastic.
- The stains may be damaged (if any).
- The fingerprint plume is almost guaranteed to break.
What to do if the lid is cracked?
What to do after removing the cover: further actions
When the lid is finally separated, you'll see the inside of the smartphone, and here's what you can do next:
| Purpose of disassembly | Action | Tools |
|---|---|---|
| Battery replacement | Disable the battery plume, remove the old battery (glued!), install a new one with duct tape. | Plastic spatula, tweezers, 3M 9448A glue. |
| Dust cleanup | Blow the body with compressed air, wipe the contacts with alcohol, remove dust from the speaker. | Compressed air tank, cotton swabs, alcohol. |
| Repair of speaker/microphone | Solder off the faulty element, solder a new one (solding skills are required). | Soldering iron, solder, flux, tweezers. |
| Camera replacement | Disable the camera plume, unscrew the screws of the mount, install a new module. | T3 screwdriver, tweezers, mediators. |
If you've disassembled a battery replacement smartphone, look at the new battery label. The original battery for the Redmi Note 4 has a capacity of 4100 mAh and is labeled BM47. Buy only certified batteries - cheap counterparts can swell or not hold charge.
π‘
Before assembling your smartphone, check all components (camera, speaker, fingerprint sensor) with the lid connected but not glued to it, which will help avoid re-disassembly if something is not working properly.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when disassembling the Redmi Note 4, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:
- π Fingerprint plume damage - occurs if the mediator is inserted too deep in the upper left corner.Solution: Use a thin mediator (0.2 mm) and don't push hard.
- π₯ Overheating of the body - if the dryer is too hot, plastic may melt or plumes will come off.Solution: Keep the hair dryer at a distance of 5-7 cm and do not heat one area for longer than 30 seconds.
- π₯ Sharp lids, which cause the flexible cables to break, so you can lift the lid gradually, starting at the corners.
- π Forgetting to turn off the battery can cause a short circuit. Solution: first thing you do after you remove the lid, unplug the battery plume.
If after the assembly of the smartphone does not turn on, check:
- Is the battery plume connected?
- Are the contacts on the motherboard damaged?
- Is the lid properly installed (it can press the power button).
π‘
If the fingerprint sensor is broken after disassembly, it's likely that the plume is damaged, and 90 percent of the time, it's irreparable, and you'll need to replace the back cover with the scanner.
When is the best time to contact the service center
Despite the fact that the dismantling of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 can be carried out independently, in some cases it is better to trust the professionals:
- π οΈ If you need to solder components (for example, replace a microphone or speaker) β without soldering experience, you risk damaging the motherboard.
- π If the smartphone does not turn on after a failed disassembly - perhaps the contacts broke off or a circuit occurred.
- π± If the back cover or display is cracked, special equipment is required to replace the glass (laminator, UV lamp).
- π If the new battery doesnβt hold a charge, the problem may be in the power controller, not the battery.
The cost of dismantling in Xiaomi service centers starts from 500 rubles (excluding spare parts). If you doubt your abilities, it is better to pay for professional repairs than risk the operation of the device.