iPhone 13 Screen Replacement Guide
Cracked your iPhone 13 screen? This comprehensive guide walks you through all 35 steps to replace your display assembly. Includes photos, tool list, and pro tips.
- Discharge battery below 25% — Lithium batteries can catch fire if punctured while charged
- Power off your iPhone completely
- This repair will break the waterproof seal — have replacement adhesive ready
- Face ID works after replacement on iOS 15.2+, True Tone requires Apple's Repair Assistant (iOS 18+)
🛠️ Tools Required
For the two bottom screws
View on Amazon →To lift the display
To separate display adhesive
View on Amazon →For internal bracket screws
For battery connector bracket
View on Amazon →For handling cables and connectors
To soften display adhesive
📦 Parts Required
Make sure it matches your exact model
View on Amazon →Pre-cut adhesive strips to reseal the display
View on Amazon →📋 Step-by-Step Instructions
Power Off & Remove Bottom Screws
Power off your iPhone completely. Remove the two 6.8mm pentalobe P2 screws on either side of the Lightning port.
Heat the Display Edges
Use a hair dryer or heat gun on LOW to warm the bottom edge of the screen for 1-2 minutes. This softens the adhesive holding the display in place.
Apply Suction Cup
Apply a suction cup to the lower portion of the front panel, just above the Lightning port. If the screen is cracked badly, cover it with packing tape first to help the suction cup grip.
Create a Gap with Opening Pick
Pull up on the suction cup while using a plastic opening pick to create a gap between the display and the frame. Insert the pick no more than 3mm to avoid damaging internal components.
Slide Pick Around Edges
Slide the opening pick around the left edge, then the top, then the right edge. Leave picks in place as you go to prevent the adhesive from resealing. Reheat edges as needed if the adhesive feels stiff.
Open the iPhone
Once all edges are separated, gently open the display from the bottom like a book. The display hinges from the right side. Don't open it past 90 degrees — cables are still connected!
Remove Battery Connector Cover
Locate the metal bracket covering the battery connector (near the bottom right). Remove the tri-point Y000 screws securing it, then lift off the bracket.
Disconnect the Battery
Use a plastic spudger to gently pry up the battery connector from its socket. This is critical — working on a connected battery risks short circuits.
Remove Display Cable Bracket
Locate the bracket covering the display cables (near the top of the battery). Remove the Phillips screws securing it and lift off the bracket.
Disconnect Display Cables
Use a spudger to disconnect the three display cables (OLED panel, digitizer, and front sensor). Pry up gently from the connector, not the cable itself.
Remove the Display
The display is now free. Lift it away from the iPhone and set it aside.
Transfer Components (If Needed)
If your new screen doesn't include the earpiece speaker, front sensors, or display shield, you'll need to transfer them from the old screen. This involves additional screws and adhesive.
Install New Display
Connect the three display cables to your new screen. Reconnect the battery. Replace all brackets and screws.
Test Before Sealing
Power on the iPhone and test the new display before applying adhesive. Check touch response, display colors, Face ID, and earpiece speaker.
Apply Adhesive & Seal
If everything works, power off and apply the new display adhesive strips around the frame. Remove the backing, align the display, and press firmly around all edges to seal.
Reinstall Bottom Screws
Replace the two pentalobe screws at the bottom of the phone. Power on and enjoy your new screen!
❓ Common Issues & FAQs
Face ID stopped working after repair?
Make sure you transferred the front sensor assembly correctly. On iOS 15.2+, Face ID should work with a replacement screen. If issues persist, the sensors may have been damaged.
True Tone is disabled?
This is expected with third-party screens. On iOS 18+, you can use Apple's Repair Assistant to calibrate genuine Apple screens.
Screen has lines or dead spots?
Check that all display cables are fully connected. If the issue persists, the replacement screen may be defective — contact the seller.
⚠️ When to Get Professional Help
- You're not comfortable with detailed disassembly
- Face ID or sensors aren't working after repair
- The screen came damaged from the seller
- You'd rather have a warranty on the repair
Need a Pro?
We do iPhone 13 screen replacements with quality parts and a 30-day warranty.
📞 (856) 914-1074 PC Medics of NJ • South JerseyGuide reference: iFixit iPhone 13 Screen Replacement Guide. Images © iFixit, used under CC BY-NC-SA license.