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Cracked Screen Replacement Guide – iPhone 11 Pro Max Full Screen Repair Model A2161


OVERVIEW:

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a complete iPhone 11 Pro Max screen replacement. Whether your screen is cracked, unresponsive, or just needs an upgrade, this tutorial will help you handle it step by step. With the right tools and a careful approach, you can avoid paying for expensive repairs and restore your device to perfect working order. This is a hands-on process, and every step is clearly explained based strictly on the original video. If you decide not to do it yourself, we also offer a professional mail-in service.


REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 1 to 1.5 HOURS to complete and is of INTERMEDIATE difficulty, requiring careful handling of flex cables, use of specialized screwdrivers, and basic disassembly skills.


STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a smudging tool, a heating mat set to about 40°C, a replacement screen, isopropyl alcohol, a tri-wing screwdriver, a pentalobe screwdriver, a Phillips screwdriver, and optionally an air blower tool for cleaning dust. A heating gun can be used instead of a heating mat, though the mat offers more control.


Remove Pentalobe Screws & Begin Heating

  • Use a pentalobe screwdriver to remove the bottom screws of the iPhone 11 Pro Max.
  • Set your heating mat to about 40°C to help loosen the screen adhesive.
  • Note that this phone uses less adhesive than newer IP68-rated models, making opening a bit easier.

Disconnect Battery for Safety

  • Use a tri-wing screwdriver to remove the bracket that protects the battery flex cable.
  • Disconnect the battery flex cable to prevent powering the phone during the repair.
  • This is a critical safety step to avoid short circuits during component removal.

Remove Display Shield Plate

  • Remove the plate secured by six tri-wing screws to access the main display connections.
  • These include the LCD, digitizer, and proximity sensor flex cables.
  • Carefully set aside the plate and screws to keep them organized for reassembly.

Disconnect Flex Cables

  • Use a plastic tool to lift up the LCD, digitizer, and proximity sensor flex cables.
  • Be gentle to avoid damaging the cables, which are vital for display functionality.
  • The right side of the phone houses the flex cables, so avoid inserting tools too deep.

Gently Remove the Screen

  • Carefully lift the screen once cables are detached, using a spudging motion rather than prying.
  • Avoid cracking the screen, especially if you plan to recycle it.
  • This step requires patience and control to avoid cable damage.

Clean Dust and Debris

  • Use a compressed air tool to blow away any internal dust or debris.
  • Pay attention to the proximity sensor area, which often accumulates dust that affects audio quality.
  • Cleaning here helps maintain a professional repair standard and improves audio clarity.

Free the Proximity Sensor

  • Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the proximity sensor from the old screen.
  • Set the screen back on the heating mat briefly to soften the adhesive under the sensor.
  • Carefully lift the proximity sensor, taking care not to tug on the ribbon cables.

Replace or Clean Sensor Components

  • Replace the plastic on the proximity sensor if it’s worn or dirty, as done in the video.
  • Blow out any dust trapped in the sensor or earpiece area.
  • These steps enhance call quality and help deliver a clean, professional result.

Reconnect Display Components

  • Reattach the LCD, digitizer, and proximity sensor cables in reverse order.
  • Take your time to align each cable properly and press gently into place.
  • Leave the battery cable disconnected until all other components are secured.

Reinstall Display Shield Plate

  • Place the shield plate back over the flex cables.
  • Secure it with the six tri-wing screws removed earlier.
  • This adds structural support and protects delicate connections.

Reconnect Battery & Final Assembly

  • Reconnect the battery flex cable as the final step before sealing the screen.
  • Reattach the battery bracket with the tri-wing screw.
  • Carefully align and press the screen back into place on the device frame.

Test Functionality

  • Power on the device to check that the touchscreen responds correctly.
  • Verify that the proximity sensor and display work as expected.
  • If all looks good, the repair is complete and the phone is ready for use.

CONCLUSION:

Replacing the screen on the iPhone 11 Pro Max is a doable task with the right tools and patience. This step-by-step breakdown ensures you won’t miss any crucial details. By following each step, you’ll save money and gain confidence in DIY repairs. Always be gentle with cables and confirm everything works before final assembly. If you’re unsure, our experts are always here to help.


VIDEO TUTORIAL:

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


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.


SHOP PARTS:


SHOP TOOLS:

Using precision tools ensures a safe and efficient repair. Always use the right tools to prevent damage to delicate components. Better tools lead to better results.


HAVE QUESTIONS?

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


YOUR EXPERIENCE MATTERS:

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Before and after

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