Installing iPod Nano 3rd Generation Battery Replacement

Add Note Introduction

Difficulty: Very difficult

Battery not lasting long? Swap it out (requires soldering).

Parts relevant to this guide

Paginated Single Page Steps

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Add Note Step 1 — Rear Panel

  • Please be aware that removing the rear panel from the back of the iPod will cause considerable damage to the rear panel. We highly recommend purchasing an additional rear panel to properly reassemble the iPod.

  • Before opening your iPod, ensure that the hold switch is in the locked position.

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Add Note Step 2

  • The rear panel is secured to the front case by eight clips permanently attached to the rear panel. These clips lock onto small tabs machined into the front case.

  • To free the tabs, they must be pushed toward the center of the Nano. Note the location of all tabs on the rear panel. When using an iPod opening tool to free the rear panel, be sure to work the tool at the location of these clips.

  • To aid in visualization, the two clips boxed in red are located closest to the headphone jack.

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Add Note Step 3

  • Opening the iPod can be challenging. Don't get discouraged if it takes you a few tries before the iPod is opened.

  • Insert the large iPod opening tool into the seam between the front case and rear panel of the iPod, above the dock connector. The tool's edge should point toward the rear panel to prevent any accidental scratching of the aluminum front case.

Add NoteNotes: Introduction

Mag748's avatar
Flag Reply by Mag748 Nov 24 2009 @ 11:36 PM

I have one suggestion about replacing the back cover after you are all done (If you did not purchase a new replacement cover). I noticed that in the process of removing the back cover, the metal clips get bent up. This causes the cover to be very loose when you replace it (this is the "considerable damage" I presume the article talks about. In order to get a tight fit, you must press down the clips very gently. One of the tack welds came off of mine, and I had to remove one of the metal tabs because it was useless, so be careful. Anyway, keep this in mind and you won't have to buy a new back cover. Thanks for the article, it really helped!

Add NoteNotes: Step 1

gruntso's avatar
Flag Reply by gruntso Dec 1 2009 @ 7:26 AM

I found removing the back to be very difficult and had to use a mini screwdriver to complete it. While removing the back to replace the clickwheel, I not only destroyed the back, I inadvertently mangled the video cable and so I then had to replace that too.

gruntso's avatar
Flag Reply by gruntso Dec 1 2009 @ 7:27 AM

Quote from gruntso:

I found removing the back to be very difficult and had to use a mini screwdriver to complete it. While removing the back to replace the click wheel, I not only destroyed the back, I inadvertently mangled the video cable and so I then had to replace that too. I would strongly recommend you buy a new back, if you plan to open your 3rd Gen Nano.