iPad Air 5 Screen Replacement – Full Step-by-Step Repair Guide

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OVERVIEW:

A customer sent us their iPad Air 5th Generation with a severely shattered screen. This detailed teardown guide walks you through the steps needed to replace the broken screen safely and thoroughly. It’s important to handle this repair with caution, especially due to the sharp glass and sensitive components inside. We’ll guide you through opening the device, removing the LCD, dealing with the adhesive, and properly sealing the device again. Follow each step closely, and if the process seems too challenging, consider using our professional mail-in repair service.

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REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 1.5 to 2 HOURS to complete and is of INTERMEDIATE difficulty, requiring patience and careful adhesive removal along with basic handling of internal components.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a curved screen disassembler, isopropyl alcohol (99%), a heating mat set to 80 degrees Celsius (a heat gun or hair dryer can be substituted with caution), a plastic spudger for safe prying, and tools like an X-Acto knife, Goof Off, Q-tips, and a brush for cleaning glue. A Phillips screwdriver is also necessary for removing internal screws.

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Heat and Loosen the Adhesive

• Use a heating mat set to 80°C to soften the adhesive around the screen.
• If using a heat gun or hair dryer, ensure the iPad is warm but not too hot to avoid internal damage.
• Begin loosening the glue by gently prying around the edges with a plastic spudger.

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Pry Open the Screen Safely

• Carefully insert the curved screen disassembler between the frame and the screen.
• Gently prod at the glue around the perimeter without pushing too deep to avoid damaging flex cables.
• Slowly work your way around until the screen begins to lift.

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Remove the Display Assembly

• Once opened, identify three Phillips screws securing the LCD.
• Remove these screws to free the screen assembly.
• Remove an additional screw covering the battery faceplate to disconnect the battery safely.

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Disconnect Flex Cables

• Unplug the three flex cables: one for the LCD, one for the digitizer, and one for the daughterboard.
• Handle the connectors gently to avoid tearing or damaging the cables.
• Lift and remove the broken screen carefully, noting any remaining shards of glass.

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Clear Broken Glass from Frame

• Examine the edges of the frame for shards still attached with adhesive.
• Use an X-Acto knife and spudger to dislodge stubborn glass while maintaining caution.
• Take your time—glass is fragile and can hide in corners or under adhesive layers.

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Remove Old Adhesive Completely

• Apply Goof Off with a Q-tip or brush to loosen leftover adhesive.
• Use a blade or spudger in tandem to scrape glue from the frame carefully.
• This step is crucial—leftover glue can cause the new screen to lift over time.

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Clean the Frame Thoroughly

• Repeat Goof Off applications and scrubbing until the frame is fully clean.
• Use isopropyl alcohol afterward to remove any residue and dry the surface.
• Ensure no glue or glass remains to achieve a strong new seal.

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Avoid Coaxial Cable Damage

• Note the presence of coaxial cables—these are not in Wi-Fi-only models.
• Avoid cutting or pressing on them with any tools.
• Use extra care in cellular models to prevent long-term damage.

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Prepare New Screen for Installation

• Test the new screen’s LCD and digitizer before sealing.
• Confirm touch responsiveness and visual clarity.
• If any issues appear, address them before proceeding to adhesive application.

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Apply and Seal with Adhesive Pull Tabs

• Remove the pull tabs from the adhesive lining the new screen.
• Gently place the new screen into the frame, aligning it precisely.
• Press around the edges to ensure a firm, even seal.

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Final Testing Before Completion

• Power on the iPad and test the screen again—swipe, press buttons, and check touch functionality.
• Confirm all flex cables are connected properly and nothing is loose.
• If everything looks good, the repair is complete.

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CONCLUSION:

This iPad Air 5th Gen screen repair is simple in theory but requires a lot of patience due to the glue and glass involved. By carefully heating, prying, and removing adhesive, you can successfully replace the screen. Be mindful of coaxial cables and take your time with cleanup. Test everything before sealing to avoid reopening. If the process feels overwhelming, we’re here to help. Your device deserves a professional, clean repair.

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VIDEO TUTORIAL:

Looking for a more in-depth tutorial? Check out our complete teardown video for a detailed step-by-step walkthrough.

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MAIL-IN REPAIR SERVICE:

We offer professional screen replacement services. If you’re unsure about doing this repair yourself, send your device to our expert technicians for fast and reliable repair.

https://tekdep.com/device-repair

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SHOP PARTS:

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SHOP TOOLS:

Using precision tools ensures a safe and efficient repair. Always use the right tools to prevent damage to delicate components. The correct tools make the process smoother and increase success rates.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below. Our community and team will be happy to help!

• Phone: 818-456-4479
• Email: [email protected]

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YOUR EXPERIENCE MATTERS: