Google Pixel 3 Back Cover Replacement

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Jan 20, 2020 - 10:31:11

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Introduction

Follow this guide to remove or replace the glass back cover for the Pixel 3. This procedure is necessary to access the Pixel’s internals.

What you need

Step 1 Back Cover

Google Pixel 3 Back Cover Replacement, Back Cover: step 1, image 1 of 2

Google Pixel 3 Back Cover Replacement, Back Cover: step 1, image 2 of 2

Heat an iOpener and apply it to the bottom of the phone for one minute.
When prying above the power button, be careful not to insert the pick too deeply, or you will damage the fingerprint sensor cable.

Step 2

Google Pixel 3 Back Cover Replacement: step 2, image 3 of 3

Apply a suction cup to the heated bottom edge of the phone.
If your back cover is badly cracked, covering it with a layer of clear packing tape may allow the suction cup to adhere.
Lift on the suction cup with strong, steady force to create a gap.
Depending on how aged your phone is, this may take significant force. If you are having trouble, apply more heat and try again.
Insert an opening pick into the gap.

Step 3

Google Pixel 3 Back Cover Replacement: step 3, image 3 of 3

Slice the adhesive along the bottom edge of the phone and around the right corner.
Leave a pick in the bottom edge the prevent the adhesive from re-sealing.

Step 4

Google Pixel 3 Back Cover Replacement: step 4, image 3 of 3

Heat the right edge with an iOpener and continue slicing the adhesive with an opening pick.
The adhesive can be very gummy. Push the pick in and out in a sawing motion to help with slicing.

Step 5

Google Pixel 3 Back Cover Replacement: step 5, image 3 of 3

Continue heating and slicing through the rest of the phone perimeter. Leave a pick in each edge to prevent the adhesive from resealing.
When slicing above the power button, do not insert the pick more than halfway in to avoid damaging the fingerprint sensor cable.

Step 6

Google Pixel 3 Back Cover Replacement: step 6, image 3 of 3

Once you have sliced around the perimeter of the phone, carefully lift the left edge of the back cover.
Do not attempt to remove the back cover. It is still attached to the phone by the fingerprint sensor cable.
Flip the back cover along its long axis and rest it so that the fingerprint sensor cable is not strained.

Step 7

Remove the two 4.1 mm long Phillips screws securing the fingerprint connector bracket.
During reassembly, be careful not to over-tighten these screws, or you may damage your display.

Step 8

Google Pixel 3 Back Cover Replacement: step 8, image 3 of 3

Use the point of a spudger to slide the fingerprint connector bracket out from under the NFC coil.
Remove the fingerprint connector bracket.

Step 9

Use the point of a spudger to pry up and disconnect the fingerprint connector from its socket.
When you disconnect connectors like these, be careful not to dislodge the small surface-mounted components surrounding the socket.
To re-attach press connectors like this one, carefully align and press down on one side until it clicks into place, then repeat on the other side. Do not press down on the middle. If the connector is misaligned, the pins can bend, causing permanent damage.

Step 10

Google Pixel 3 Back Cover Replacement: step 10, image 3 of 3

Remove the back cover.
Before you install a replacement back cover, be sure to remove all adhesive residue from the phone frame. Use an opening tool to scrape and high concentration isopropyl alcohol to clean the surface.
If you are re-using the back cover, be sure to clean off any adhesive, and apply new back cover adhesive.
If you are installing a replacement back cover, be sure compare it with the original part. Transfer any remaining parts (such as the flash diffuser) over to your replacement part.