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iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement

What you need

  1. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, SIM Tray: step 1, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, SIM Tray: step 1, image 2 of 2
    • Insert a SIM card eject tool or a paperclip into the small hole in the SIM card tray.

    • Press to eject the tray.

    • This may require a significant amount of force.

  2. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 2, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the SIM Card tray assembly from the iPhone.

    • When reinserting the SIM card, ensure that it is in the proper orientation relative to the tray.

  3. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, Pentalobe Screws: step 3, image 1 of 1
    • Before disassembling your iPhone, discharge the battery below 25%. A charged lithium-ion battery can catch fire and/or explode if accidentally punctured.

    • Power off your iPhone before beginning disassembly.

    • Remove the two 3.4 mm P2 Pentalobe screws on the bottom edge of the iPhone, on either side of the Lightning connector.

  4. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, Anti-Clamp instructions: step 4, image 1 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, Anti-Clamp instructions: step 4, image 2 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, Anti-Clamp instructions: step 4, image 3 of 3
    Tool used on this step:
    Anti-Clamp
    $24.95
    Buy
    • The next two 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.

    • Slide the arms over either the left or right edge of your iPhone.

    • Position the suction cups near the bottom edge of the iPhone just above the home button—one on the front, and one on the back.

    • Squeeze the cups together to apply suction to the desired area.

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

  5. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 5, image 1 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 5, image 2 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 5, image 3 of 3
    • Pull the blue handle forwards 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.

    • 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, rotate the handle a quarter turn.

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

    • Skip the next three steps.

  6. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, Opening Procedure: step 6, image 1 of 1
    Tool used on this step:
    Anti-Clamp
    $24.95
    Buy
    • If you don't have an Anti-Clamp, follow the next three steps to use a suction handle.

    • Apply mild heat to the lower edge of the iPhone using an iOpener or hair dryer for about a minute.

    • Heat softens the adhesive securing the display, making it easier to open.

  7. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 7, image 1 of 1
    • Opening the display on the 6s separates a thin strip of adhesive around the perimeter of the display. If you prefer to replace the adhesive, have a set of new adhesive strips ready before you continue. It's possible to complete the repair without replacing the adhesive, and you probably won't notice any difference in functionality.

    • Apply a suction cup to the lower left corner of the display assembly.

    • Take care not to place the suction cup over the home button.

    • If your display 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.

  8. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 8, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 8, image 2 of 2
    • Pull up on the suction cup with firm, constant pressure to create a slight gap between the front panel and rear case.

    • Take your time and apply firm, constant force. The display assembly is a much tighter fit than most devices and is held down with adhesive.

    • Pulling too hard may damage the display assembly. Apply just enough pressure to create a small gap between the display assembly and the rear case.

    • If you have any trouble, heat the front of the iPhone using an iOpener, hair dryer, or heat gun until it's slightly too hot to touch. This will help soften the adhesive securing the edges of the display.

  9. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 9, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 9, image 2 of 2
    • There is a notch on the underside of the display, just above the headphone jack. This is the safest place to begin prying the phone open.

    • Place the flat edge of a spudger into the gap between the screen and rear case, directly above the headphone jack.

  10. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 10, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 10, image 2 of 2
    • Twist the spudger to widen the gap between the front panel assembly and the rest of the phone.

  11. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 11, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 11, image 2 of 2
    • Insert the flat end of the spudger on the left side of the phone, between the display assembly and rear case.

    • Slide the spudger up the side of the phone to separate the adhesive and pop the clips free.

  12. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 12, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 12, image 2 of 2
    • Remove the spudger and reinsert it on the bottom edge, where you pried the phone open.

    • Slide the spudger to the right, along the bottom edge of the phone.

  13. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 13, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 13, image 2 of 2
    • Slide the spudger up the right side to continue separating the adhesive and popping the display clips free from the iPhone.

  14. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 14, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 14, image 2 of 2
    • Use the suction cup to open the display, breaking the last of the adhesive.

    • Don't open the display more than 90º, as it is still connected at the top by three cables that may break if stretched.

  15. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 15, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 15, image 2 of 2
    • Pull up on the nub on the top side of the suction cup to remove it from the front panel.

  16. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 16, image 1 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 16, image 2 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 16, image 3 of 3
    • Gently grasp the display assembly and lift it up to open the phone, using the clips at the top of the front panel as a hinge.

    • Open the display to about a 90º angle, and lean it against something to keep it propped up while you're working on the phone.

    • Add a rubber band to keep the display securely in place while you work. This prevents undue strain on the display cables.

    • In a pinch, you can use an unopened canned beverage to hold the display.

  17. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, Battery Connector: step 17, image 1 of 1
    Tool used on this step:
    Magnetic Project Mat
    $19.95
    Buy
    • Remove two Phillips screws securing the battery connector bracket, of the following lengths:

    • One 2.9 mm screw

    • One 2.2 mm screw

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

  18. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 18, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 18, image 2 of 2
    • Remove the battery connector bracket from the iPhone.

  19. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 19, image 1 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 19, image 2 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 19, image 3 of 3
    • Use the point of a spudger to disconnect the battery connector by prying it straight up from the logic board.

  20. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 20, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 20, image 2 of 2
    • Push the battery connector away from the logic board until it stays separated from its socket, so as to avoid any accidental connection to the battery while you work.

  21. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, Unfasten the display cable bracket: step 21, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the following four Phillips screws securing the display cable bracket:

    • Three 1.2 mm screws

    • One 2.8 mm screw

  22. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 22, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 22, image 2 of 2
    • Remove the display cable bracket.

  23. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 23, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 23, image 2 of 2
    • Use a spudger or a clean fingernail to disconnect the front camera flex cable by prying it straight up from its socket on the logic board.

  24. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 24, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 24, image 2 of 2
    • Disconnect the digitizer cable by prying it straight up from its socket on the logic board.

    • When reconnecting the digitizer cable, do not press the center of the connector. Press one end of the connector, then press the opposite end. Pressing in the center of the connector can bend the component and cause digitizer damage.

  25. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 25, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 25, image 2 of 2
    • Make sure the battery is disconnected before you disconnect or reconnect the cable in this step.

    • Disconnect the display cable by prying it straight up from its socket on the logic board.

  26. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 26, image 1 of 1
  27. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, Speaker: step 27, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, Speaker: step 27, image 2 of 2
    • Use the point of a spudger to lift and disconnect the antenna cable from the bottom end of the logic board.

    • To reconnect antenna cables like these to the socket, carefully align the connector to the socket, then use the flat end of a spudger to press down. It should click in place. If not, check for alignment. Do not use excessive force.

  28. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 28, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 28, image 2 of 2
    • Use the point of a spudger to lift up and disconnect the Lightning connector ribbon cable from its socket on the logic board.

  29. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 29, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 29, image 2 of 2
    • If you are following this guide to replace the Lightning connector, you can choose to keep the antenna cable connected and skip this step and the next one. Be very careful not to strain the delicate antenna cable when you move the loudspeaker around.

    • Use the point of a spudger to lift and disconnect the antenna cable from its socket near the top of the logic board.

  30. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 30, image 1 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 30, image 2 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 30, image 3 of 3
    • Carefully lift the antenna cable and de-route it from the edge of the phone. Use the point of a spudger to help lift the cable to free it from the retaining clips.

    • If the cable does not have enough room to lift up, loosen this Phillips screw securing the logic board so that the board can give more wiggle room.

    • Be sure to re-tighten this screw during re-installation.

    • During re-installation, be sure to route the antenna cable underneath the logic board corner.

    • During re-installation, you can also re-insert the SIM card tray after re-routing the antenna cable.

    • If you feel any resistance, stop and make sure that the tray isn't snagging the antenna cable.

  31. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 31, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the following Phillips screws securing the speaker to the rear case:

    • Two 2.6 mm screws

    • One 2.3 mm screw

    • This screw may be covered by some tape.

    • One 2.3 mm screw

    • This screw is different from the prior one. Be sure not to mix the two together.

    • One 3.0 mm screw

  32. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 32, image 1 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 32, image 2 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 32, image 3 of 3
    • Insert the flat end of a spudger between the long edge of the speaker module and the case wall.

    • Pry gently to loosen the speaker module.

    • Once the module is loose, lift and remove the speaker module from the phone.

  33. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, Lightning Connector Assembly: step 33, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement, Lightning Connector Assembly: step 33, image 2 of 2
    • Remove the two 1.5 mm Phillips screws securing the Taptic Engine to the rear case.

    • Remove the Taptic Engine.

  34. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 34, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the following eight Phillips screws:

    • Two 2.9 mm screws over the headphone jack

    • One 3.7 mm screw over the headphone jack bracket

    • Two 1.4 mm screws on the edge of the iPhone

    • Two 1.9 mm screws on either side of the Lighting connector

    • One 3.0 mm screw to the left of the connector

  35. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 35, image 1 of 1
    • Remove the plastic microphone bracket.

  36. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 36, image 1 of 1
    • Heat an iOpener and apply it to the back of the phone near the bottom edge for one minute.

  37. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 37, image 1 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 37, image 2 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 37, image 3 of 3
    • Insert a plastic opening pick between the edge of the rear case and the Lightning connector flex cable.

    • Press the pick underneath the flex cable to break up the adhesive holding it in place.

  38. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 38, image 1 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 38, image 2 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 38, image 3 of 3
    • Insert the flat end of a spudger between the Lightning connector assembly and rear case to break up the remaining adhesive.

  39. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 39, image 1 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 39, image 2 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 39, image 3 of 3
    • Use an opening tool to separate the microphones from the bottom edge of the rear case.

  40. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 40, image 1 of 2 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 40, image 2 of 2
    • Insert the point of a spudger into the headphone jack and push to loosen the jack from the rear case.

  41. iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 41, image 1 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 41, image 2 of 3 iPhone 6s Lightning Connector Assembly Replacement: step 41, image 3 of 3
    • Remove the Lightning connector assembly.

    • If your replacement part does not come with a gasket, use tweezers to remove it from the old part and transfer it onto the replacement part.

    • Before installing or replacing the Lightning connector assembly, use a plastic tool to scour any bits of adhesive residue from the rear case behind the cable.

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? Check out our iPhone 6s Answers community for troubleshooting help.

322 other people completed this guide.

Arthur Shi

Member since: 01/03/18

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503 Guides authored

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47 Comments

the reason is the antenna is connected to the loud speaker but you can lay it out of the way, remember do not rip the cable that is attached to the speaker

Wilson Gilley - Reply

Can you just plug the new assembly in to check it, before going through the whole installation?

cropcord76 - Reply

ya man, just be careful, make sure battery is disconnected before connecting or disconnecting anything

Andrew -

I did this repair and everything went fine. The user now has issues with callers hearing them. Is there a cover/sticker over the microphone on the ifixit replacement part? Speaker works and he can talk on speaker phone with no issues. Any ideas?

bofootball57 - Reply

Did you pull the old adhesive off before reinstalling using the new adhesive? Did you align each mic correctly?

chamilton89@gmail.com -

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