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iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement

Introduction

Follow this guide to remove or replace the logic board in your iPad Air 4.

The Logic Board is paired to the power button. You'll need to transfer the power button with the logic board to keep Touch ID capability.

If your battery is swollen, take appropriate precautions.

This guide is written with an A2324 (cellular + mmWave) model iPad Air. If you're fixing a Wi-Fi model, you can still use this guide—there will be some visual discrepancies, and you'll need to skip the steps related to the cellular antennas.

What you need

  1. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Prepare your iPad for disassembly: step 1, image 1 of 1

    • Allow your iPad's battery to fully drain before starting this repair. A charged battery may catch fire if damaged during the repair.

    • Unplug any cables and fully shut down your iPad.

    Edit

  2. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Heat the left edge: step 2, image 1 of 1

    • Apply a heated iOpener to the left edge of the screen for two minutes.

    • You can also use a hair dryer, heat gun, or hot plate—but extreme heat can damage the screen and/or internal battery, so proceed with care.

    Edit

  3. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Screen removal information: step 3, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Screen removal information: step 3, image 2 of 2

    • While your iPad looks uniform from the outside, there are delicate components under portions of the screen. To avoid damage, follow instructions exactly as written and note the following areas as you open your iPad:

    • Camera module and ambient light sensors

    • Display cables

    • Screen magnets

    • Display edges

    Edit

  4. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Anti-Clamp instructions: step 4, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Anti-Clamp instructions: step 4, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Anti-Clamp instructions: step 4, image 3 of 3
    Tool used on this step:
    Anti-Clamp
    $24.95
    Buy

    • The next three steps demonstrate the Anti-Clamp, a tool we designed to make the opening procedure easier. If you aren't using the Anti-Clamp, skip down three steps for an alternate method.

    • For complete instructions on how to use the Anti-Clamp, check out this guide.

    • Pull the blue handle backwards to unlock the Anti-Clamp's arms.

    • Place an object under your iPad so it rests level between the suction cups.

    • Position the suction cups near the middle of the left edge—one on the top, and one on the bottom.

    • Hold the bottom of the Anti-Clamp steady and firmly press down on the top cup to apply suction.

    • If you find that the surface of your iPad is too slippery for the Anti-Clamp to hold onto, use tape to create a grippier surface.

    Edit

  5. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 5, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 5, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 5, image 3 of 3

    • Pull the blue handle forward to lock the arms.

    • Turn the handle clockwise 360 degrees or until the cups start to stretch.

    • Make sure the suction cups remain aligned with each other. If they begin to slip out of alignment, loosen the suction cups slightly and realign the arms.

    Edit

  6. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 6, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 6, image 2 of 2

    • Wait one minute to give the adhesive a chance to release and present an opening gap.

    • If your screen isn't getting hot enough, you can use a hair dryer to heat along the left edge of the iPad.

    • For complete instructions on how to use a hair dryer, check out this guide.

    • Insert an opening pick under the screen when the Anti-Clamp creates a large enough gap.

    • If the Anti-Clamp doesn't create a sufficient gap, apply more heat to the area and rotate the handle clockwise half a turn.

    • Don't crank more than a half a turn at a time, and wait one minute between turns. Let the Anti-Clamp and time do the work for you.

    • Skip the next step.

    Edit

  7. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Insert an opening pick: step 7, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Insert an opening pick: step 7, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Insert an opening pick: step 7, image 3 of 3

    • If your screen is badly cracked, covering it with a layer of clear packing tape may allow the suction cup to adhere. Alternatively, very strong tape may be used instead of the suction cup. If all else fails, you can superglue the suction cup to the broken screen.

    • Apply a suction handle to the top left edge of the screen.

    • Pull up on the suction handle with firm, constant pressure to create a gap just small enough to insert an opening pick.

    • Only create a gap small enough to insert an opening pick. Overbending the screen will damage it.

    • Insert the tip of an opening pick into the gap.

    • Don't insert the opening pick more than 3 mm or you'll damage the display edges.

    • Leave the pick in to prevent the adhesive from re-sealing.

    Edit

  8. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the left edge adhesive: step 8, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the left edge adhesive: step 8, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the left edge adhesive: step 8, image 3 of 3

    • Don't insert the pick more than 3 mm or you'll damage the display edges.

    • Insert a new opening pick in the gap you just created.

    • Slide the opening pick along the left edge to separate the adhesive.

    • Leave the pick in the bottom left corner to prevent the adhesive from re-sealing.

    Edit

  9. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Heat the bottom edge: step 9, image 1 of 1

    • Apply a heated iOpener to the bottom edge of the screen for two minutes.

    Edit

  10. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the bottom edge adhesive: step 10, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the bottom edge adhesive: step 10, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the bottom edge adhesive: step 10, image 3 of 3

    • Don't insert the pick more than 3 mm or you'll damage the display cables.

    • Insert a new opening pick in the bottom left corner.

    • Slide the opening pick along the bottom edge to separate the adhesive.

    • Leave the pick in the bottom right corner to prevent the adhesive from re-sealing.

    Edit

  11. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Heat the right edge: step 11, image 1 of 1

    • Apply a heated iOpener to the right edge of the screen for two minutes.

    Edit

  12. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the right edge adhesive: step 12, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the right edge adhesive: step 12, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the right edge adhesive: step 12, image 3 of 3

    • The right edge of the iPad contains the screen magnets, display cables, and a digitizer cable. These components are easily damaged if an opening pick is inserted too far.

    • Insert a new opening pick in the bottom right corner and slide along the right edge to separate the adhesive. Make sure to note the following marked areas:

    • Don't insert an opening pick more than 2 mm or you'll damage the screen magnets.

    • The screen magnets are located directly above the SIM card slot (Wi-Fi + Cellular models only) and volume buttons.

    • Don't insert an opening pick more than 3 mm or you'll damage the display and digitizer cables.

    • Don't insert an opening pick more than 5 mm or you'll damage the display edges.

    • Leave the pick in the top right corner to prevent the adhesive from re-sealing.

    Edit

  13. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Heat the top edge: step 13, image 1 of 1

    • Apply a heated iOpener to the top edge of the screen for two minutes.

    Edit

  14. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the top edge adhesive: step 14, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the top edge adhesive: step 14, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the top edge adhesive: step 14, image 3 of 3

    • The top edge of the iPad contains the front camera module and two ambient light sensors. These components are easily damaged if an opening pick is inserted too far.

    • The two ambient light sensors can be hard to see and can be located using a flashlight or by placing the iPad under a bright light.

    • Insert a new opening pick in the top right corner and slide along the top edge to separate the adhesive. Make sure to note the following:

    • Don't insert an opening pick more than 5 mm or you'll damage the display edges.

    • Don't insert an opening pick more than 3 mm or you'll damage the ambient light sensors.

    • Don't insert an opening pick more than 2 mm or you'll damage the front camera module.

    • Leave the pick in the top left corner to prevent the adhesive from re-sealing.

    Edit

  15. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Reposition the screen: step 15, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Reposition the screen: step 15, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Reposition the screen: step 15, image 3 of 3

    • Don't try to remove the screen yet, as it's still attached to the frame by delicate ribbon cables.

    • Grip the left edge of the screen and fold it open like a book.

    • During reassembly, this is a good point to power on your iPad and test all functions before sealing it up. Be sure to power your iPad back down before you continue working.

    Edit

  16. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the battery: step 16, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the battery: step 16, image 2 of 2
    Tool used on this step:
    FixMat
    $36.95
    Buy

    • Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the 1.8 mm screw securing the battery connector to the logic board.

    • Throughout this repair, keep track of each screw and make sure it goes back exactly where it came from.

    Edit

  17. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Battery connector information: step 17, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Battery connector information: step 17, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Battery connector information: step 17, image 3 of 3

    • These photos show what the battery connector looks like underneath the logic board. Use these photos as a reference while you safely disconnect the battery.

    • Notice that the battery connector has cantilever springs on the logic board that press against the battery contact pads. Since both the logic board and battery are glued down, you'll need to slide something thin and flexible between the contact points to disconnect the battery.

    Edit

  18. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Create a battery blocker: step 18, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Create a battery blocker: step 18, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Create a battery blocker: step 18, image 3 of 3

    • Cut two 6 mm wide strips from a playing card or cardstock to use as a battery blocker.

    • The strips should be about 4 cm long so you can easily grip them.

    Edit

  19. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Insert the card strips: step 19, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Insert the card strips: step 19, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Insert the card strips: step 19, image 3 of 3

    • Insert the card strips on each side of the battery connector until they stop.

    Edit

  20. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Unfasten the display and digitizer cable brackets: step 20, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Unfasten the display and digitizer cable brackets: step 20, image 2 of 2

    • Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the three screws securing the display and digitizer cable brackets to the logic board:

    • Two 1.1 mm screws

    • One 1.5 mm screw

    Edit

  21. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the display cable bracket: step 21, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the display cable bracket: step 21, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the display cable bracket: step 21, image 3 of 3

    • The display cable bracket is held in place by a small latch at the bottom.

    • Use tweezers or your fingers to pivot the latch out from the top and remove the bracket.

    Edit

  22. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the digitizer cable bracket: step 22, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the digitizer cable bracket: step 22, image 2 of 2

    • Use tweezers or your fingers to remove the digitizer cable bracket.

    Edit

  23. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the display cables: step 23, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the display cables: step 23, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the display cables: step 23, image 3 of 3

    • Use the flat end of a spudger to disconnect the two display cables by lifting straight up on the press connectors.

    • 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 and cause permanent damage.

    Edit

  25. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the digitizer cable: step 24, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the digitizer cable: step 24, image 2 of 2

    • Repeat the previous step for the digitizer cable.

    Edit

  26. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the screen: step 25, image 1 of 1

    • Grip the left edge of the screen and lift it away.

    • During reassembly, before installing a screen, remove any remaining adhesive from the frame, and clean the glued areas with high-strength (>90%) isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth. This helps prep the iPad for fresh adhesive and ensures that it will bond properly.

    • If you plan to reinstall your existing screen, remove any remaining adhesive from the back and clean the adhered areas with isopropyl alcohol.

    • Follow this guide to install pre-cut adhesive strips on your iPad before sealing it up.

    Edit

  27. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Unfasten the front camera cable bracket: step 26, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Unfasten the front camera cable bracket: step 26, image 2 of 2

    • Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the 1.2 mm screw securing the front camera cable bracket to the frame.

    Edit

  28. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the front camera cable bracket: step 27, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the front camera cable bracket: step 27, image 2 of 2

    • Use tweezers or your fingers to remove the front camera cable bracket.

    Edit

  29. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the front camera: step 28, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the front camera: step 28, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the front camera: step 28, image 3 of 3
    Tool used on this step:
    Tesa 61395 Tape
    $5.99
    Buy

    • Use the flat end of a spudger to disconnect the two display cables by lifting straight up on the press connectors.

    • 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 and cause permanent damage.

    • Use tweezers to remove the front camera.

    • The camera is secured to the frame with weak foam adhesive.

    • During reassembly, use a small piece of Tesa tape to secure the front camera to the frame.

    Edit

  30. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Unfasten the rear camera bracket: step 29, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Unfasten the rear camera bracket: step 29, image 2 of 2

    • Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the 1.8 mm screw securing the rear camera cable bracket to the frame.

    Edit

  31. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the rear camera bracket: step 30, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the rear camera bracket: step 30, image 2 of 2

    • Use tweezers or your fingers to remove the rear camera cable bracket.

    Edit

  32. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the rear camera cable: step 31, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the rear camera cable: step 31, image 2 of 2

    • Use the flat end of a spudger to pry up and disconnect the rear camera press connector.

    Edit

  33. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Heat the rear camera: step 32, image 1 of 1

    • The rear camera is secured to the frame with strong adhesive.

    • Lay the iPad screen side down.

    • Apply a heated iOpener to the rear camera for two minutes to weaken the adhesive.

    Edit

  34. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the rear camera: step 33, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the rear camera: step 33, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the rear camera: step 33, image 3 of 3
    Tool used on this step:
    Tesa 61395 Tape
    $5.99
    Buy

    • Lay the iPad screen side up.

    • Use the flat end of a spudger to pry up the rear camera.

    • If it's difficult to pry the camera up, apply a heated iOpener, wait two minutes, and try again.

    • Don't use isopropyl alcohol to weaken the adhesive or you'll damage the rear camera.

    • Remove the rear camera.

    • During reassembly, you can reuse the adhesive in the frame if it's still intact and clean.

    • If the adhesive is damaged or dirty, use tweezers to remove it and use a small piece of Tesa tape to secure the rear camera to the frame.

    Edit

  35. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Logic board cable information: step 34, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Logic board cable information: step 34, image 2 of 2

    • At this point, you'll need to disconnect numerous connectors from the logic board. During reassembly, use these photos as a reference to ensure all cables are connected in the correct locations.

    Edit

  36. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the top microphone: step 35, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the top microphone: step 35, image 2 of 2

    • Use tweezers to peel away the tape covering the top microphone ZIF connector.

    Edit

  37. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 36, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 36, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 36, image 3 of 3

    • Use tweezers or a spudger to lift up the latch on the ZIF connector.

    • Use tweezers to pull the top microphone cable out of its socket.

    Edit

  38. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the top speaker: step 37, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the top speaker: step 37, image 2 of 2

    • Use the pointed end of a spudger to disconnect the top speaker cable by prying straight up on the rear of the connector.

    Edit

  39. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the top left interconnect cable: step 38, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the top left interconnect cable: step 38, image 2 of 2

    • Use the flat end of a spudger to disconnect the top left interconnect cable.

    Edit

  40. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the top left Wi-Fi antenna cable: step 39, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the top left Wi-Fi antenna cable: step 39, image 2 of 2

    • To disconnect coaxial cables like this. Insert the pointed end of a spudger underneath the rear of the connector and lift it up.

    • Use the pointed end of a spudger to disconnect the top left Wi-Fi antenna cable.

    • To reinstall, hold the connector in place and gently press straight down. The connector will “snap” into its socket much like the metal snaps on a jacket.

    Edit

  41. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Reposition the top left Wi-Fi antenna cable: step 40, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Reposition the top left Wi-Fi antenna cable: step 40, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Reposition the top left Wi-Fi antenna cable: step 40, image 3 of 3

    • Use tweezers or your fingers to peel the top left Wi-Fi antenna cable off of the top interconnect cable.

    Edit

  42. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the power button, volume button, and rear microphone cables: step 41, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the power button, volume button, and rear microphone cables: step 41, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the power button, volume button, and rear microphone cables: step 41, image 3 of 3

    • Use the flat end of a spudger to disconnect the power and volume button cables.

    Edit

  43. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Reposition the volume button and rear microphone cable: step 42, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Reposition the volume button and rear microphone cable: step 42, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Reposition the volume button and rear microphone cable: step 42, image 3 of 3

    • The volume button and rear microphone cable is secured to the frame with weak adhesive.

    • Insert the flat end of a spudger under the volume button and rear microphone cable.

    • If it's difficult to insert the spudger, heat the rear microphone to weaken the adhesive.

    • Bend the cable to the right so the two Wi-Fi and cellular antenna cables underneath are accessible.

    Edit

  44. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the two top right antenna cables: step 43, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the two top right antenna cables: step 43, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the two top right antenna cables: step 43, image 3 of 3

    • Use the pointed end of a spudger to disconnect the two top right antenna cables.

    Edit

  45. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the top right antenna cable: step 44, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the top right antenna cable: step 44, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the top right antenna cable: step 44, image 3 of 3

    • Use the pointed end of a spudger to disconnect the top right antenna cable.

    • The cable is secured to the logic board by a piece of tape.

    • Peel the tape away while removing the cable.

    Edit

  46. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the top right antenna interconnect cable: step 45, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the top right antenna interconnect cable: step 45, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the top right antenna interconnect cable: step 45, image 3 of 3

    • Disconnect the top right antenna interconnect cable:

    • Peel off the tape

    • Flip up the latch

    • Pull out the cable

    Edit

  47. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Apply isopropyl alcohol to the top interconnect flex cable: step 46, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Apply isopropyl alcohol to the top interconnect flex cable: step 46, image 2 of 2

    • Apply a few drops of high-strength (>90%) isopropyl alcohol along the edges of the top interconnect flex cable.

    • Let the alcohol soak for one minute to soften the adhesive under the cable.

    Edit

  48. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the top interconnect flex cable: step 47, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the top interconnect flex cable: step 47, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the top interconnect flex cable: step 47, image 3 of 3

    • Insert an opening pick under the interconnect flex cable.

    • Slide the pick under the cable towards the logic board to separate the adhesive.

    • If it's difficult to insert or slide the pick, apply more isopropyl alcohol, wait one minute, and try again.

    Edit

  49. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the four antenna cables: step 48, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the four antenna cables: step 48, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the four antenna cables: step 48, image 3 of 3

    • Use the pointed end of a spudger to disconnect the four antenna cables below the volume buttons.

    Edit

  50. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the Apple Pencil charger: step 49, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the Apple Pencil charger: step 49, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the Apple Pencil charger: step 49, image 3 of 3

    • The Apple Pencil charger cable is located in the center on the right edge of the logic board.

    • Use tweezers to peel back the tape covering the Apple Pencil charger connector.

    Edit

  51. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 50, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 50, image 2 of 2

    • Use the pointed end of a spudger to disconnect the Apple Pencil charger cable.

    • Don't pry against the short sides of the connector. The socket on the logic board is delicate and may break off if pried against.

    Edit

  52. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the bottom speaker: step 51, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the bottom speaker: step 51, image 2 of 2

    • Use the pointed end of a spudger to disconnect the bottom speaker cable by prying straight up on the rear of the connector.

    Edit

  53. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the SIM card reader cable: step 52, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the SIM card reader cable: step 52, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the SIM card reader cable: step 52, image 3 of 3

    • Disconnect the SIM card reader cable:

    • Peel off the tape

    • Flip up the latch

    • Pull out the cable

    Edit

  54. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the bottom right antenna cable: step 53, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the bottom right antenna cable: step 53, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the bottom right antenna cable: step 53, image 3 of 3

    • Disconnect the bottom right antenna interconnect cable:

    • Peel off the tape

    • Flip up the latch

    • Pull out the cable

    Edit

  55. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Peel back the bottom right antenna interconnect cable: step 54, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Peel back the bottom right antenna interconnect cable: step 54, image 2 of 2

    • The bottom right antenna interconnect cable is secured to the frame with some weak adhesive.

    • Use tweezers or your fingers to peel back the bottom right antenna interconnect cable.

    • If the cable is difficult to remove, use a few drops of high-strength (>90%) isopropyl alcohol to soften the adhesive.

    Edit

  56. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Reposition the bottom antenna cable harness: step 55, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Reposition the bottom antenna cable harness: step 55, image 2 of 2

    • Use your fingers to lift and unroute the antenna cable harness away from the right edge of the iPad.

    Edit

  57. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 56, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 56, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 56, image 3 of 3
    Tool used on this step:
    Tesa 61395 Tape
    $5.99
    Buy

    • The antenna cables at the bottom are secured to the frame with stiff glue. Pull slowly to avoid tearing them.

    • Gently pull on the antenna cable harness to separate them from the frame.

    • During reassembly, use small strips of Tesa tape to secure the antenna cables to the frame.

    Edit

  58. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the Smart Connector cable: step 57, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the Smart Connector cable: step 57, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect the Smart Connector cable: step 57, image 3 of 3

    • Disconnect the Smart Connector cable:

    • Peel off the tape

    • Flip up the latch

    • Pull out the cable

    Edit

  59. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the Smart Connector Cable: step 58, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the Smart Connector Cable: step 58, image 2 of 2

    • The Smart Connector cable is secured to the frame with weak adhesive.

    • Insert the flat end of a spudger under the Smart Connector cable.

    • Slide the flat end of a spudger under the cable to separate it from the frame.

    • If the cable is difficult to remove, use a few drops of high-strength (>90%) isopropyl alcohol to soften the adhesive.

    Edit

  60. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect and separate the lower left antenna interconnect cable: step 59, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect and separate the lower left antenna interconnect cable: step 59, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Disconnect and separate the lower left antenna interconnect cable: step 59, image 3 of 3

    • Repeat the previous step to disconnect and separate the lower left antenna interconnect cable.

    Edit

  61. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Unfasten the USB-C port: step 60, image 1 of 2 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Unfasten the USB-C port: step 60, image 2 of 2

    • Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two 2 mm screws securing the USB-C port to the frame.

    • If you can't insert the screwdriver in the screw head, use tweezers to remove the glue on the sides of the screws.

    Edit

  62. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Lift the USB-C port out of its slot: step 61, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Lift the USB-C port out of its slot: step 61, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Lift the USB-C port out of its slot: step 61, image 3 of 3

    • Insert a spudger under the USB-C port cable.

    • Lift the USB-C port out of its slot in the frame.

    Edit

  63. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the USB-C port grounding contacts: step 62, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the USB-C port grounding contacts: step 62, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the USB-C port grounding contacts: step 62, image 3 of 3

    • Use tweezers to remove the two grounding contacts in the USB-C port recess.

    Edit

  64. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Apply isopropyl alcohol to the USB-C port cable: step 63, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Apply isopropyl alcohol to the USB-C port cable: step 63, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Apply isopropyl alcohol to the USB-C port cable: step 63, image 3 of 3

    • Prop the top side of the iPad up so the isopropyl alcohol can flow under the USB-C port cable.

    • Apply a few drops of high-strength (>90%) isopropyl alcohol along the top edge of the USB-C port cable.

    • Let the alcohol soak for one minute to soften the adhesive under the cable.

    Edit

  65. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the USB-C port flex cable: step 64, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the USB-C port flex cable: step 64, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the USB-C port flex cable: step 64, image 3 of 3

    • Insert an opening pick under the USB-C port flex cable.

    • Slide the pick along the cable towards the logic board to separate the adhesive.

    • If it's difficult to insert or slide the pick, apply more isopropyl alcohol, wait one minute, and try again.

    Edit

  66. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Apply isopropyl alcohol to the right edge of the logic board: step 65, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Apply isopropyl alcohol to the right edge of the logic board: step 65, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Apply isopropyl alcohol to the right edge of the logic board: step 65, image 3 of 3

    • Prop the right side of the iPad up so the isopropyl alcohol can flow under the logic board.

    • Apply a few drops of high-strength (>90%) isopropyl alcohol along the right edge of the logic board.

    • Let the alcohol soak for one minute to soften the adhesive under the logic board.

    Edit

  67. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the logic board adhesive: step 66, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the logic board adhesive: step 66, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Separate the logic board adhesive: step 66, image 3 of 3

    • Insert an opening pick under the right edge of the logic board.

    • Pry up and slide along the right edge of the logic board to separate the adhesive securing it to the frame.

    • Bending or warping the logic board could lead to permanent damage. If it's difficult to insert or slide the pick, apply more isopropyl alcohol and wait one minute.

    Edit

  68. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 67, image 1 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 67, image 2 of 3 iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement: step 67, image 3 of 3
    Tool used on this step:
    Plastic Cards
    $2.99
    Buy

    • Insert a plastic card under the right edge of the logic board.

    • Pry up and slide along the right edge of the logic board to separate any remaining adhesive.

    • Bending or warping the logic board could lead to permanent damage. If it's difficult to insert or slide the card, apply more isopropyl alcohol and wait one minute.

    Edit

  69. iPad Air 4 Logic Board Replacement, Remove the logic board: step 68, image 1 of 1
    Tool used on this step:
    Tesa 61395 Tape
    $5.99
    Buy

    • Grip the logic board at the top and bottom edges.

    • Lift out the logic board.

    • Remove the old adhesive from the rear case and bottom of the logic board using tweezers and high concentration isopropyl alcohol with a lint-free cloth where needed.

    • During reassembly, apply strips of Tesa tape to the bottom of the logic board.

    Edit
Conclusion

Compare your new replacement part to the original part—you may need to transfer remaining components or remove adhesive backings from the new part before installing.

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

Take your e-waste to an R2 or e-Stewards certified recycler.

Repair didn’t go as planned? Try some basic troubleshooting, or ask our iPad Air 4 answers community for help.

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Chayton Ritter

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One Comment

Hello, any idea where i can get a top left interconnect cable replacement part? I cannot find the part anywhere. Thanks

Notorius93 - Reply

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