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Power the iPhone off completely. Set up a clean, well-lit workspace on a non-static surface (a microfiber cloth on a desk works). Have screw organizers ready.
Two pentalobe P2 screws at the bottom edge, one on each side of the Lightning/USB-C port. Keep these in a labeled section — they're essential for water resistance.
Use a heat gun (low setting) or hair dryer to warm the perimeter for 1–2 minutes per side. The display adhesive is strong — heat softens it.
Apply suction cup to the bottom-center of the screen. Pull upward steadily while pressing down on the aluminum frame. Listen for the adhesive to release.
Slide thin plastic picks into the gap. Work along the bottom and LEFT side. The RIGHT side has display ribbon cables — DO NOT pry there or you'll damage them.
Open the screen upward at 90°. The ribbon cables are still attached — do not pull harder.
Remove the bracket over the battery connector (2–3 tri-point Y000 screws), then gently lift the connector with a spudger. This prevents short-circuits when you disconnect the screen.
Remove the bracket over the display connectors at the top. Carefully lift each ribbon cable with a plastic spudger. Note the order — there are usually 3 (front sensors, OLED panel, digitizer).
Front camera assembly, earpiece speaker, and (on Face ID phones) the True Depth camera have to move from the old screen to the new one. Failing to transfer the original IC chip = Face ID stops working forever.
Reverse: connect display ribbons → bracket → battery connector → bracket. Test BEFORE sealing — boot the device and verify touch + display work.
Most replacement kits include adhesive strips. Apply along the perimeter, then close the screen by aligning the top hinge edge first, then pressing the bottom shut. Re-install pentalobe screws.
If you damage a ribbon cable, snap a screw, or the new screen has dead pixels: stop. Apple charges $129–$429 depending on model. Third-party shops typically charge $179–$279 with a 90-day warranty. Mail-in services are available at iphoneipadfix.com/mail-in-repair.html.
Step-by-step guide to fix this common Apple device issue.
Last updated: March 27, 2026