Introduction

Follow this guide to replace the touch sensor for the Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones. The touch sensor, located in the right ear cup, allows for control over music, volume, noise cancellation, and other features. Over time, or due to accidental damage, the touch sensor may become unresponsive or behave incorrectly. In some cases, a firmware update could resolve the issues. However if the touch controls continue to not work, it may be necessary to replace the touch sensor.

Prior to replacing the touch sensor make sure the headphones are powered off and disconnected from any external power source.

What you need

Step 1 Earpads

Sony WH-1000XM5 Touch Sensor Replacement, Earpads: step 1, image 1 of 3

Sony WH-1000XM5 Touch Sensor Replacement, Earpads: step 1, image 2 of 3

Sony WH-1000XM5 Touch Sensor Replacement, Earpads: step 1, image 3 of 3

Tool used on this step:

iFixit Opening Tool

$1.99

Buy

Place the edge of an iFixit opening tool under the earpad cushion.
Slide it alongside the edge of the cushion until it detaches from the rest of the headphones.

Edit

Step 2 Touch Sensor

Sony WH-1000XM5 Touch Sensor Replacement, Touch Sensor: step 2, image 1 of 2

Sony WH-1000XM5 Touch Sensor Replacement, Touch Sensor: step 2, image 2 of 2

Remove the eight 2.4mm screws located inside the right ear cup using a Phillips #000 screwdriver.

Edit

Step 3

Sony WH-1000XM5 Touch Sensor Replacement: step 3, image 3 of 3

Flip the headphones over.
Carefully lift the plastic cover slightly, but do not remove it completely.
The touch sensor has a ribbon cable connected to the mainboard.
Gently grab the ribbon cable and pull away from the connector to disconnect it.
Do not attempt to remove the touch sensor; it is glued to the plastic ear cup cover.