Our everyday lives now revolve around mobile phones. Since the iPhone 14 is a high-end model, many people may find it difficult to use if there are problems with the display, touchscreen, or screen cracking. You might be able to replace your iPhone 14 screen yourself if you're handy and want to avoid paying for repairs. Phonefix will offer comprehensive guidance in this post on how to safely and correctly replace the screen of your iPhone 14 on your own, reducing risk and increasing success rates.
I. Preparation: A Complete List of Tools and Accessories
Before you begin your repair, preparing professional Phone repair tools is half the battle. You'll need the following professional tools and replacement accessories:
· Pentalobe screwdriver: Used to remove the two outer casing screws on the bottom of the iPhone.
· Tri-wing screwdriver (Y000): Used to remove the internal metal bracket.
· Prying pick or sharp blade: Used to cut adhesive and pry up the screen.
· Suction handle or pinch remover: Used to separate the screen from the frame.
· Plastic spudger: For safely disconnecting cables and preventing short circuits.
· Hot air gun or hair dryer: For heating and softening adhesive.
· Anti-static tweezers: For removing and installing small sensor components.
· Magnetic screw mat or divider: For organizing and storing removed screws to prevent clutter.
· New iPhone 14 screen.
· Display adhesive seal or double-sided tape: For attaching the frame when reinstalling the screen.
II. Removing the Original Screen: Caution is Paramount
Be sure to completely shut down the phone and disconnect all power sources before proceeding. Keep your hands dry and clean. If possible, wear an anti-static wrist strap for added safety.
Step 1: Remove Bottom Screws
Use a P2 Pentalobe screwdriver to remove the two screws on the outer casing on either side of the Lightning connector. This is the first step in the disassembly process.
Step 2: Heat the Bottom Edges
Use a hot air gun or hair dryer to heat the bottom and sides of the screen for about 60 seconds to soften the adhesive. Keep the temperature moderate to avoid overheating and damaging the screen.
Step 3: Pry Up the Screen
Attach a suction cup to the bottom edge of the screen and gently lift until a slight gap appears. Insert an opening pick and slide along the bottom, right, and top edges, gradually cutting through the adhesive. Be especially careful on the left side, as it connects to the front sensor cable.
Step 4: Lift the Screen
After cutting the adhesive, slowly lift the screen from the right side, opening it like the cover of a book. Do not pull directly to prevent rupturing the cable.
III. Disconnecting the Cables and Transferring the Sensor Assembly
Step 1: Removing the Metal Bracket
Use a Y000 tri-wing screwdriver to remove the metal bracket securing the cable connector. Carefully remove it and store it separately.
Step 2: Disconnecting the Display and Sensor Cables
Use a plastic opening tool to gently disconnect the display and front sensor cables. Be extremely careful not to damage the logic board connectors by applying excessive force.
Step 3: Transferring the Front Sensor Assembly
If your new screen doesn't include the front sensor assembly, you'll need to remove it from the old screen. Use a hot air gun to heat the sensor area of the old screen to soften the adhesive behind it, then use an opening pick and tweezers to gently pry each iPhone component. Be sure to keep the components in their original state and reinstall them precisely in their new positions.
IV. Installing the New Screen: Safe Restoration
Step 1: Cleaning the Old Adhesive and Applying the New Adhesive
Use a plastic tool to thoroughly remove any remaining adhesive from the edges of the middle frame, then apply the new display seal or double-sided tape. Ensure the adhesive is applied neatly and without wrinkles to ensure a secure installation and dust and water resistance.
Step 2: Reconnecting the Cables
Connect the display and sensor cables of the new screen to their iPhone motherboard connectors one by one, ensuring precise alignment. Then, reinstall the metal bracket and tighten the remaining screws.
Step 3: Power-On Functional Test
Before the screen is fully glued, power on the phone and conduct a thorough test. Use a display and iPhone Screen Tester to check for normal display, touch sensitivity, front-facing camera functionality, and Face ID. If any issues are found, recheck the cable connections.
Step 4: Final Reattachment and Sealing
Once the function is confirmed, close the screen smoothly and gently press along the frame to secure the new adhesive. Finally, install the two Pentalobe screws at the bottom to complete the replacement process.
V. Important Notes and Risks
Although the process may sound straightforward, please keep the following in mind:
· Risk of Damage: Failure to perform any of the steps correctly may damage the front-facing sensor, resulting in loss of Face ID functionality. This is irreparable.
· System Warning Message: Even if you are using a genuine Apple display, you may still receive a message stating "Unable to verify this device uses a genuine Apple display." This will not affect your device's functionality, but may void your warranty.
· Repair Records Are Irreversible: iOS will record unofficial repairs and display an "Unknown Part" warning in Settings.
· Technical Requirements: If you lack experience disassembling electronics, we strongly recommend hiring a professional or opting for an official Apple repair.
VI. Apple Self-Service Options
Apple has officially launched its Self Service Repair program, allowing users to purchase a genuine screen, rent official tools, and recalibrate their device using Apple's System Configuration Tool after the replacement. This is a safer and more compliant option for users who want to retain Face ID and True Tone functionality.
It's not easy to replace an iPhone 14 screen on your own, but it is possible if you have the right tools, buy them from China Phonefix, work carefully, and prepare yourself. Think about giving it a shot if you're a hands-on person with some expertise fixing electronics. The following is a reference video for replacing the screen of iPhone14 by yourself. I hope it will be helpful to you.
