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iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement

What you need

  1. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, iOpener Heating: step 1, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, iOpener Heating: step 1, image 2 of 2
    • We recommend that you clean your microwave before proceeding, as any nasty gunk on the bottom may end up stuck to the iOpener.

    • Place the iOpener in the center of the microwave.

    • For carousel microwaves: Make sure the plate spins freely. If your iOpener gets stuck, it may overheat and burn.

  2. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 2, image 1 of 1
    • Heat the iOpener for thirty seconds.

    • Throughout the repair procedure, as the iOpener cools, reheat it in the microwave for an additional thirty seconds at a time.

    • Be careful not to overheat the iOpener during the repair. Overheating may cause the iOpener to burst. Do not attempt to heat over 100˚C (212˚F).

    • Never touch the iOpener if it appears swollen.

    • If the iOpener is still too hot in the middle to touch, continue using it while waiting for it to cool down some more before reheating. A properly heated iOpener should stay warm for up to 10 minutes.

  3. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 3, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the iOpener from the microwave, holding it by one of the two flat ends to avoid the hot center.

    • The iOpener will be very hot, so be careful when handling it. Use an oven mitt if necessary.

  4. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Alternate iOpener heating method: step 4, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Alternate iOpener heating method: step 4, image 2 of 2
    • If you don't have a microwave, follow this step to heat your iOpener in boiling water.

    • Fill a pot or pan with enough water to fully submerge an iOpener.

    • Heat the water to a boil. Turn off the heat.

    • Place an iOpener into the hot water for 2-3 minutes. Make sure the iOpener is fully submerged in the water.

    • Use tongs to extract the heated iOpener from the hot water.

    • Thoroughly dry the iOpener with a towel.

    • The iOpener will be very hot, so be careful to hold it only by the end tabs.

    • Your iOpener is ready for use! If you need to reheat the iOpener, heat the water to a boil, turn off the heat, and place the iOpener in the water for 2-3 minutes.

  5. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Front Panel: step 5, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Front Panel: step 5, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Front Panel: step 5, image 3 of 3
    • If your display glass is cracked, keep further breakage contained and prevent bodily harm during your repair by taping the glass.

    • Lay overlapping strips of clear packing tape over the iPad's display until the whole face is covered.

    • This will keep glass shards contained and provide structural integrity when prying and lifting the display.

    • Do your best to follow the rest of the guide as described. However, once the glass is broken, it will likely continue to crack as you work, and you may need to use a metal prying tool to scoop the glass out.

    • Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes, and be careful not to damage the LCD screen.

  6. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 6, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 6, image 2 of 2
    • Handling it by the tag, place the heated iOpener on the side of the iPad to the left of the home button assembly.

    • Let the iOpener sit for at least a minute to soften the adhesive beneath the glass.

  7. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 7, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 7, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 7, image 3 of 3
    • While the iPad looks uniform from the outside, there are delicate components under the front glass. To avoid damage, only heat and pry in the areas described in each step.

    • As you follow the directions, take special care to avoid prying in the following areas:

    • Front-facing camera

    • Antennas

    • Display cables

  8. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Anti-Clamp instructions: step 8, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Anti-Clamp instructions: step 8, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Anti-Clamp instructions: step 8, 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.

  9. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 9, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 9, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 9, 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.

  10. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 10, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 10, 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 two steps.

  11. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 11, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 11, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 11, image 3 of 3
    • Carefully place a suction cup halfway up the heated side.

    • Be sure the cup is completely flat on the screen to get a tight seal.

    • While holding the iPad down with one hand, pull up on the suction cup to slightly separate the front panel glass from from the rear case.

    • If your iPad's screen is badly cracked, covering it with a smooth layer of clear packing tape may help the suction cup adhere. Alternatively, use a strong piece of tape (such as duct tape) and fold it into a handle.

  12. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 12, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 12, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 12, image 3 of 3
    • Place an opening pick in the gap opened by the suction cup.

    • Don't insert the opening pick any deeper than the black bezel on the side of the display. Inserting the pick too far may damage the LCD.

    • Pull the suction cup's plastic nub to release the vacuum seal and remove the suction cup from the display assembly.

  13. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 13, image 1 of 1
    • Reheat and replace the iOpener.

    • Be careful not to overheat the iOpener during the repair procedure. Always wait at least ten minutes before reheating the iOpener.

  14. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 14, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 14, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 14, image 3 of 3
    • Place a second opening pick alongside the first and slide the pick down along the edge of the iPad, releasing the adhesive as you go.

  15. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 15, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 15, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 15, image 3 of 3
    • Continue moving the opening pick down the side of the display to release the adhesive.

    • If the opening pick gets stuck in the adhesive, "roll" the pick along the side of the iPad, continuing to release the adhesive.

  16. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 16, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 16, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 16, image 3 of 3
    • Take the first pick you inserted and slide it up toward the top corner of the iPad.

    • If you can see the tip of the opening pick through the front glass, don't panic—just pull the pick out just a little bit. Most likely, everything will be fine, but try to avoid this as it may deposit adhesive on the front of the LCD that is difficult to clean off.

  17. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 17, image 1 of 1
    • Reheat the iOpener and place it on the top edge of the iPad, over the front-facing camera.

    • Be careful not to overheat the iOpener during the repair procedure. Wait at least ten minutes before reheating the iOpener.

    • If you have a flexible iOpener, you can bend it to heat both the upper left corner and the upper edge at the same time.

  18. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 18, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 18, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 18, image 3 of 3
    • Slide the opening pick around the top left corner of the iPad to separate the adhesive.

  19. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 19, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 19, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 19, image 3 of 3
    • Slide the opening pick along the top edge of the iPad, stopping just before you reach the camera.

    • The third image shows where the front-facing camera and housing are in the iPad.

    • Avoid sliding the opening pick over the front facing camera, as you may smear adhesive onto the lens or damage the camera. The following steps will detail how to best avoid disturbing the front facing camera.

  20. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 20, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 20, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 20, image 3 of 3
    • Pull the pick out slightly, and slide the very tip gently along the top of the front-facing camera section of the top edge.

  21. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 21, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 21, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 21, image 3 of 3
    • Leave the opening pick in the iPad slightly past the front-facing camera.

    • Take a second pick and insert it to the left of the camera, and then slide it to the corner of the iPad to finish cutting the adhesive on that edge.

  22. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 22, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 22, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 22, image 3 of 3
    • Insert the previous pick deeper into the iPad and slide it away from the camera toward the corner.

  23. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 23, image 1 of 1
    • Leave the three picks in the corners of the iPad to prevent re-adhering of the front panel adhesive.

    • Reheat the iOpener and place it on the remaining side of the iPad—along the volume and lock buttons.

  24. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 24, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 24, image 2 of 2
    • Slide the opening pick around the top right corner of the iPad, releasing the adhesive there.

    • Leave this pick in place to keep the adhesive from re-sealing itself, and grab a new pick for the next step.

  25. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 25, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 25, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 25, image 3 of 3
    • Insert a new opening pick and slide it to the middle of the right edge of the iPad, releasing the adhesive as you go.

    • The display cables are located approximately halfway from the bottom of the iPad. Stop sliding the pick when you get ~4.5" from the bottom of the iPad.

  26. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 26, image 1 of 1
    • Leave the opening picks in place, and set the reheated iOpener on the home button end of the iPad.

  27. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 27, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 27, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 27, image 3 of 3
    • Slide the lower left pick to the lower left corner to cut the adhesive on that corner.

    • Leave the pick at the corner. Do not pry any farther, and do not remove the pick from the iPad.

    • The third image shows the two antennas and the home button cavity in the lower case of the iPad.

    • The following steps will direct you where to pry to avoid damage to these components. Only apply heat and pry where directed.

  28. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 28, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 28, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 28, image 3 of 3
    • Leave the pick from the last step in place to prevent the adhesive from re-sealing.

    • With a new pick, slice gently over the left-hand antenna, stopping before the home button.

    • Only slide the pick from the outer edge toward the center of the iPad. Do not move the pick back toward the outer edge, as moving in this direction may damage the antenna.

    • If you need to slide the pick over the lower section more than once, remove it and re-insert at the outer edge, and slide inwards.

    • Leave the pick in place before moving on.

  29. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 29, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 29, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 29, image 3 of 3
    • Take a new pick and slip it in to the right of the previous pick.

    • Slide across the home button and right-hand antenna using only the very tip to remove the adhesive.

  30. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 30, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 30, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 30, image 3 of 3
    • With the adhesive loosened, you can now insert the pick near the right-hand corner. Slide the pick to the left, and stop just short of the Home button.

    • Just like with the left antenna, only slide from the outer edge toward the center. Reversing this direction may damage the antenna.

  31. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 31, image 1 of 1
    • Reheat and reapply the iOpener to the volume control side of the iPad.

  32. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 32, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 32, image 2 of 2
    • Be very careful with this step. Take your time and ensure the adhesive is hot and soft, and that you've been through all of the adhesive with an opening pick. Don't be afraid to stop and reheat.

    • On the side of the iPad opposite the volume controls, you should have a pick lodged into each corner. Twist the picks to lift the glass slightly, separating the last of the adhesive along the display cable edge.

    • If you encounter a significant amount of resistance, leave the picks in place, reheat, and reapply the iOpener to the problem areas.

  33. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 33, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 33, image 2 of 2
    • Lift slowly and gently to further detach the adhesive along the display cable edge.

  34. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 34, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 34, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 34, image 3 of 3
    • While supporting the front panel glass, use an opening pick to cut the last of the adhesive.

    • Be very careful not to cut or damage any of the display cables.

  35. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 35, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 35, image 2 of 2
    • Once all of the adhesive has been separated, open the glass panel like a page in a book and rest it on your workspace.

    • During reassembly, clean the remains of the adhesive from the case (and the front glass if you are re-using it) with isopropyl alcohol, and replace the adhesive using our display adhesive application guide and pre-cut adhesive strips.

    • It's easy to pinch a flex cable between the front glass and the iPad's frame during reassembly. Be mindful of the flex cables and make sure they gently fold and tuck under the frame. If the folds in a flex cable are pressed completely flat, it may be damaged beyond repair.

  36. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, LCD: step 36, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, LCD: step 36, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, LCD: step 36, image 3 of 3
    • Remove any tape obscuring the LCD screws.

  37. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 37, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the following Phillips screws securing the LCD.

    • Three 4.0 mm screws

    • One 4.8 mm screw

  38. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 38, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 38, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 38, image 3 of 3
    • Do not attempt to fully remove the LCD. It is still connected to the iPad by several cables at the home button end. Lift only from the front-facing camera end.

    • Use the flat end of a spudger to pry the LCD out of its recess just enough to grab it with your fingers.

    • Flip the iPad LCD like a page in a book, lifting near the camera and turning it over the home button end of the rear case.

    • Be gentle and keep an eye on the LCD cables as you flip the display over.

    • Lay the LCD on its face to allow access to the display cables.

    • Set the LCD down on a soft, clean, lint-free surface.

  39. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 39, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 39, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 39, image 3 of 3
    Tool used on this step:
    Battery Blocker
    $3.99
    Buy
    • Remove the single 2.3 mm Phillips screw securing the battery connector to the logic board.

    • To reduce the risk of a short, you can insert a battery blocker or a modified opening pick to disconnect the battery.

    • Be very careful when you isolate the battery using a battery blocker. The battery contacts are easily damaged, resulting in irreversible damage.

    • Slide the battery blocker underneath the battery connector area of the logic board, and leave it in place while you work.

    • If you are having trouble fitting the battery blocker underneath the logic board, you can try using a playing card to disconnect the battery.

  40. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 40, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the three 1.4 mm Phillips screws from the display cable bracket.

  41. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 41, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 41, image 2 of 2
    • Use the flat end of a spudger to gently pry the display cable bracket straight up from the logic board.

    • The display cable connector is adhered to the underside of the bracket, so don’t push the spudger too far under the bracket, or you may damage the connector.

  42. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 42, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the LCD.

  43. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Front Panel Assembly: step 43, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Front Panel Assembly: step 43, image 2 of 2
    • Remove any tape covering the home button ribbon cable connector.

  44. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 44, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 44, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 44, image 3 of 3
    • Use the flat end of a spudger to flip the tab on the home button ribbon cable ZIF connector upward.

    • Carefully pull the home button ribbon cable horizontally out of the ZIF connector.

  45. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 45, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 45, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 45, image 3 of 3
    • Use a the flat end of a spudger or a fingernail to carefully pop the two digitizer cable connectors straight up from their sockets.

    • To avoid damaging your iPad, pry only on the connectors themselves, not on the socket on the logic board.

  46. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 46, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 46, image 2 of 2
    • Carefully peel the home button ribbon cable up off of the adhesive holding it to the rear case.

  47. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 47, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 47, image 2 of 2
    Tool used on this step:
    Polyimide Tape
    $9.99
    Buy
    • Remove the front panel assembly.

    • During reassembly, wipe any dust or fingerprints off of the inside of the front panel assembly to ensure a clean display.

    • If you experience "ghost" or "phantom" touch input issues with your new display, this can be resolved by adding a layer of very thin insulating tape, such as Kapton (polyimide) tape, to the highlighted areas on the back of the panel. iFixit panels come with the proper insulation, and should not require the addition of any tape.

    • Without the proper insulation, these areas of the digitizer can ground out against other components, causing touch input malfunction.

    • The insulation is not visible to the naked eye, and is different from the foam dust barrier strips found on many iPads.

  48. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Right Antenna: step 48, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Right Antenna: step 48, image 2 of 2
    • Insert a spudger under the antenna cable closest to the edge of the iPad and lift upward to disconnect the antenna cable connector.

  49. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 49, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 49, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 49, image 3 of 3
    • There are two large pieces of tape wrapped around the right antenna cable, securing it to the rear case.

    • Peel the tape up from the rear case.

    • While peeling the antenna tape up, leave it in place on the antenna cable to aid with reassembly.

  50. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 50, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 50, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 50, image 3 of 3
    • The antenna cable is anchored to the speaker with a small metal bracket. The bracket is permanently crimped to the antenna and adhered to the speaker enclosure.

    • Carefully insert an opening pick between the speaker enclosure and the antenna cable bracket.

    • Slide the pick toward the home button to cut the adhesive.

    • Push the bracket away from the speaker until it clears the tape underneath.

  51. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 51, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the following Phillips #000 screws securing the right antenna:

    • One 2.3 mm screw

    • Two 1.4 mm screws

  52. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 52, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 52, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 52, image 3 of 3
    • Insert the flat end of a spudger between the antenna and the speaker assembly.

    • Slide the spudger toward the home button to cut the foam adhesive securing the antenna.

  53. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 53, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the right antenna from the iPad.

  54. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Right Speaker: step 54, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Right Speaker: step 54, image 2 of 2
    • Insert a spudger under the left antenna cable and lift upward to disconnect the antenna cable connector.

  55. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 55, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 55, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 55, image 3 of 3
    • There are five pieces of tape wrapped around the left antenna cable covering the right speaker cable connector.

    • Peel the tape up from the rear case.

    • Fold the antenna cable out of the way.

  56. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 56, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 56, image 2 of 2
    • A bend in the speaker cable makes it difficult to peel the tape up from the end.

    • Instead, grip the tape just under the speaker and peel it down, away from the edge of the case.

    • Be careful with your tweezers—only grab and peel the tape, and not the cable beneath.

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    • Peel the tape toward the home button to uncover the speaker cable connector.

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    • Use the pointed end of a spudger to flip up the retaining flap on the right speaker cable connector.

    • Slide the speaker cable straight out of its ZIF connector.

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    • Remove the tape holding the speaker to the rear case.

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    • Carefully peel the LCD buffer tape up off of the rear case.

  61. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 61, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the 2.2 mm Phillips #000 screw securing the speaker to the rear case.

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    • Insert a fingernail or the flat end of a spudger in the groove in the speaker housing, near the corner of the rear case.

    • Pull the speaker down, away from the corner of the case.

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    • Use a spudger to help pull the speaker out from under the edge of the rear case.

    • Remove the right speaker from the iPad.

  64. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Upper Component Cable Bracket: step 64, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the three 1.4 mm Phillips #000 screws securing the upper component cable bracket.

  65. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 65, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the upper component cable bracket.

    • If you have the Wi-Fi/Cellular model, your iPad will look slightly different and will require the removal of two additional screws to access components covered by this bracket.

  66. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Logic Board: step 66, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Logic Board: step 66, image 2 of 2
    • There are two remaining pieces of tape securing the left antenna cable to the rear case.

    • Peel the tape up from the rear case.

  67. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 67, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 67, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 67, image 3 of 3
    • Carefully insert an opening pick between the speaker enclosure and the antenna cable bracket.

    • Slide the pick toward the home button to cut the adhesive.

    • Push the bracket away from the speaker until it is clear of the tape underneath.

  68. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 68, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the following Phillips #000 screws:

    • Two 1.4 mm screws

    • One 2.3 mm screw

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    • Insert the flat end of a spudger between the antenna and the speaker assembly.

    • Slide the spudger toward the home button to cut the foam adhesive securing the antenna.

  70. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 70, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the left antenna from the iPad.

  71. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 71, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 71, image 2 of 2
    • Remove the tape covering the left speaker cable connector.

  72. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 72, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 72, image 2 of 2
    • Use the pointed end of a spudger to flip up the retaining flap on the left speaker cable connector.

  73. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 73, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 73, image 2 of 2
    • Slide the speaker cable straight out of its ZIF connector.

  74. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 74, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 74, image 2 of 2
    • Remove the tape holding the speaker to the rear case.

  75. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 75, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the 2.2 mm Phillips #000 screw securing the speaker to the rear case.

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    • Gently fold the left speaker ribbon cable up so that it will clear the battery when you slide the speaker enclosure out.

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    • Insert a fingernail or the flat end of a spudger in the groove in the speaker housing, near the corner of the rear case.

    • Pull the speaker down, away from the corner of the case.

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    • Use a spudger to help pull the speaker out from under the edge of the rear case.

    • Remove the left speaker from the iPad.

  79. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 79, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 79, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 79, image 3 of 3
    • Use the flat end of a spudger to disconnect the front-facing camera connector from the logic board.

    • Pry up only on the connector—not on the socket itself.

    • Fold the front-facing camera cable out of the way.

    • There is a bit of conductive adhesive between the gold-colored cable contacts. Be sure to apply pressure to readhere these contacts during reassembly.

  80. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 80, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 80, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 80, image 3 of 3
    • Use the flat end of a spudger to disconnect the rear-facing camera connector from the logic board.

    • Pry up only on the connector—not on the socket itself.

    • Fold the rear-facing camera cable out of the way.

  81. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 81, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 81, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 81, image 3 of 3
    • Use the flat end of a spudger to disconnect the headphone jack connector from the logic board.

    • Pry up only on the connector—not on the socket itself.

    • Newer iPad units have a loop of tape connecting this connector to its socket on the the logic board. This tape must be cut in order to disconnect the headphone jack.

    • Fold the headphone jack cable out of the way.

  82. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 82, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 82, image 2 of 2
    • Use the flat end of a spudger to disconnect the microphone cable connector from the logic board.

    • Pry up only on the connector—not on the socket itself.

  83. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 83, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 83, image 2 of 2
    • Remove any tape covering the upper button assembly cable connector.

  84. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 84, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 84, image 2 of 2
    • Use the pointed end of a spudger to flip up the retaining flap on the upper button assembly cable connector.

  85. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 85, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 85, image 2 of 2
    • Slide the upper button assembly cable straight out of its ZIF connector.

  86. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 86, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the two 3.3 mm Phillips #000 screws securing the Lightning port.

    • To find these screws, hold the iPad vertically and look down at the Lightning port.

  87. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 87, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 87, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 87, image 3 of 3
    • In the next steps, you will use an iOpener to apply heat to the rear case of the iPad to soften adhesive holding the logic board in place.

    • As you reheat and place the iOpener in each of the indicated locations, leave it in place for at least a minute to soften the adhesive through the rear case.

    • The adhesive is in the form of six pieces of black foam tape—refer to this step as you work at heating and prying to keep track of where each piece is located.

  88. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 88, image 1 of 1
    • Place a heated iOpener over the rear-facing camera end of the iPad, and let it sit for at least a minute to soften the adhesive through the rear case.

    • More time won't hurt, but you may need to reheat your iOpener and reapply it if you leave it on the rear case for too long.

  89. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 89, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 89, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 89, image 3 of 3
    • As you complete the next few steps, prying adhesive securing the logic board in place, always start by testing gently to see if the adhesive is softened. If not, reheat the iOpener and reapply it to the back of the rear case.

    • Carefully insert an opening pick under the logic board, between the front-facing camera and the battery.

    • Slide the pick toward the front-facing camera connector, and stop at the bend in the logic board.

  90. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 90, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 90, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 90, image 3 of 3
    • Slide an opening pick under the logic board from the front-facing camera to the rear facing camera.

  91. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 91, image 1 of 1
    • Place a heated iOpener along the bottom edge of the iPad.

    • Again, let the iOpener sit for at least a minute to soften the adhesive through the rear case.

  92. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 92, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 92, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 92, image 3 of 3
    • The Lightning connector cable is stuck to the case with some adhesive. To detach the adhesive you will be sliding an opening pick between the cable and the case. Be very careful not to cut the Lightning connector cable itself.

    • Insert an opening pick under the Lightning cable where it meets the logic board.

    • Slide the pick down and around the bend in the cable.

  93. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 93, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 93, image 2 of 2
    • Continue to slide the opening pick under the cable, stopping before the cable bends to the Lightning connector.

    • Move slowly and carefully. If the opening pick does not slide easily, apply more heat and try again. If you use excessive force, you will likely slip and sever the Lightning connector cable.

  94. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 94, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 94, image 2 of 2
    • Finally, slide the opening pick between the battery and the Lightning connector itself to separate the last of the adhesive underneath the cable.

  95. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 95, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 95, image 2 of 2
    • Pull the Lightning connector straight out of its recess in the rear case.

  96. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 96, image 1 of 1
    • Place a heated iOpener on the left side of the rear case, where the logic board is adhered.

    • Let the iOpener sit for at least a minute to soften the adhesive through the rear case.

  97. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 97, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 97, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 97, image 3 of 3
    • Insert a plastic opening tool in the rectangular gap in the upper area of the logic board, and pry the logic board up from the rear case.

    • While keeping the opening tool underneath the logic board, slide it down the length of the gap to free the upper end of the logic board from the adhesive.

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    • Pry up the logic board at the lower edge of the rectangular gap, near the EMI shield.

    • Lift the end of the logic board slowly. If you encounter significant resistance, stop prying and reapply the iOpener.

  99. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 99, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 99, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 99, image 3 of 3
    • Slide an opening pick under the logic board between it and the battery.

    • Slide the pick from the base to the center of the logic board to cut the adhesive.

    • Take care not to cut the battery with the opening pick; a punctured battery can be very dangerous. If you encounter resistance, reheat and reapply the iOpener.

  100. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 100, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 100, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 100, image 3 of 3
    • Slide the pick up the length of the logic board.

    • Once the adhesive has been cut, pry the battery side of the logic board upward off of the rear case.

  101. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 101, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 101, image 2 of 2
    • Continue to lift the logic board along the edge nearest the battery, until you can get an opening pick against the far edge of the logic board.

    • Cut any adhesive holding the outer edge of the logic board to the rear case.

  102. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 102, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the logic board from the iPad.

  103. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Battery: step 103, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Battery: step 103, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement, Battery: step 103, image 3 of 3
    Tool used on this step:
    iFixit Adhesive Remover
    $19.99
    Buy
    • The following steps instruct you to use heat to soften the glue securing the battery. A safer alternative is to inject a solvent, such as iFixit adhesive remover, between the battery and rear case to dissolve the adhesive.

    • Reheat the iOpener in the microwave for 30 seconds.

    • Remember to be careful not to overheat the iOpener during the repair procedure. Wait at least two minutes before reheating the iOpener, and never microwave it for more than 30 seconds.

    • Place the heated iOpener in the center of the back of the iPad. Let it sit there for 90 seconds to soften the battery adhesive.

    • Move the iOpener to the right (away from the rear-facing camera), and let the iOpener sit for another 90 seconds.

    • Finally, move the iOpener to the right-hand edge of the iPad for 90 seconds.

    • The iOpener may cool significantly between sittings—if it does, reheat for another 30 seconds between each position.

  104. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 104, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 104, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 104, image 3 of 3
    Tool used on this step:
    Plastic Cards
    $2.99
    Buy
    • Throughout the following procedure, you'll be sliding thin plastic cards between the battery and rear case of the iPad, to separate the adhesive securing the battery. Be careful to keep the cards as flat as possible to avoid bending the battery, which may damage it and cause it to release dangerous chemicals.

    • Insert a plastic card under the lower battery cell, at the lower right-hand corner.

    • If you encounter significant resistance, re-heat the iOpener and repeat the previous step to give the adhesive more time to soften.

  105. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 105, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 105, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 105, image 3 of 3
    • With the card roughly halfway inserted, slide it toward the top of the iPad, stopping before the battery contact post.

  106. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 106, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 106, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 106, image 3 of 3
    • Lift the card up from the rear case slightly to allow it to pass over the battery contact mounting post.

    • Slide the card from the center of the battery cells to the upper right corner of the battery.

  107. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 107, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 107, image 2 of 2
    • Place a second plastic card about halfway under the left hand battery cell to prevent it from readhering when you reapply the iOpener.

  108. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 108, image 1 of 1
    • Place an iOpener on the right side of the battery, opposite the cards, to loosen the adhesive.

  109. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 109, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 109, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 109, image 3 of 3
    • Slide the card around the lower right corner of the battery.

  110. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 110, image 1 of 2 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 110, image 2 of 2
    • Slide the plastic card to the lower left corner of the battery.

  111. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 111, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 111, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 111, image 3 of 3
    • Press the card in further, breaking as much of the adhesive holding in the battery as you can.

    • Place the plastic card underneath the lower left corner of the battery.

  112. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 112, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 112, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 112, image 3 of 3
    • Slide the card around the upper right corner of the battery.

    • Be extremely careful to slide the card over the front-facing camera and headphone jack cables to avoid cutting them.

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    • Slide the plastic card to the upper left corner of the battery.

    • Be careful to slide the card over the front-facing camera and headphone jack cables to avoid cutting them.

  114. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 114, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 114, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 114, image 3 of 3
    • Press the card in further, breaking as much of the adhesive holding in the battery as you can.

    • Place the plastic card underneath the upper left corner of the battery.

  115. iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 115, image 1 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 115, image 2 of 3 iPad Air Wi-Fi Battery Replacement: step 115, image 3 of 3
    • Grip both cards firmly and twist them to lift the battery off of the rear case.

    • Remove the battery from the rear case.

Conclusion

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

218 other people completed this guide.

Sam Goldheart

Member since: 10/18/12

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55 Comments

I attempted the battery replacement and it all went to plan until I tried to boot up the iPad. Nothing happens until you plug it in, when you plug it in the apple logo comes up then it dies again. Any advice????

Mason - Reply

May be a faulty battery, try with a known working battery

Scott S -

Mason, did you find a solution? I’m having the exact same problem after replacing the battery…

Dustin -

I just put the screen less iPad on a hotplate at 65 to 70 degrees to warm up the case. Use dental floss under the battery to slice the adhesive away. No sharp tools needed

Neil Davis - Reply

Best way to position?

Scott S -

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