iPhone 13 Pro Max Teardown & Disassembly – Step-by-Step Tutorial | TEKDEP

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OVERVIEW:

In this teardown, we take apart the iPhone 13 Pro Max to examine Apple’s internal hardware upgrades and component layout. The screen, known as the Super Retina XDR display, requires careful separation due to its thin, delicate construction. This guide covers every major step from screen removal to motherboard extraction, and provides a clear look into Apple’s design decisions. Whether you’re a technician or just curious, this teardown provides in-depth insight into the iPhone 13 Pro Max internals.

See the official Apple specs for this model

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REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 2-3 hours to complete and is of ADVANCED difficulty, requiring expertise in handling delicate flex cables and removing strong adhesives.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

To disassemble the iPhone 13 Pro Max, you’ll need a preheated mat set between 80–90°C, a 0.8mm Pentalobe screwdriver, a 0.6mm Tri-point screwdriver, a 1.2mm Phillips screwdriver, 99% isopropyl alcohol, and a curved screen disassembler. These tools will help loosen adhesives, remove screws, and safely detach internal components.

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Remove the Pentalobe Screws

• Start by removing the bottom pentalobe screws located next to the charging port.
• Preheat the device on a heating mat at around 80–90°C to soften the adhesive under the screen.
• Apply a small amount of isopropyl alcohol around the edges to assist with screen removal.

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Separate the Screen

• Use a curved screen disassembler or iOpener tool to carefully lift a corner of the display.
• Gently work your way around the edges, ensuring the frame is lifted with the screen.
• Avoid prying the glass alone—this screen is very thin and delicate.

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Check Display Functionality

• Once the screen opens like a book, power on the device briefly to confirm that the display still functions.
• This ensures the screen wasn’t damaged during opening.
• Proceed only if display and touch response are working.

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Remove the Metal Brackets

• Unscrew the bracket covering the battery and LCD connections.
• Unscrew the bracket at the top securing the proximity sensor.
• Set the brackets aside carefully and keep track of screw sizes.

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Disconnect the Screen and Front Assembly

• Disconnect the battery and screen connectors using a plastic spudger.
• Gently detach the proximity sensor and front camera assembly, which is now mounted to the screen frame.
• Lift and remove the screen completely from the housing.

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Remove Rear Camera Bracket

• Unscrew the metal bracket securing the rear camera assembly.
• Take note of the three cameras: 12MP wide, 12MP telephoto with 3x zoom, and 12MP ultrawide.
• This entire camera unit is one solid piece.

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Remove Additional Screws and Cables

• Begin removing various Torx and Phillips screws across the logic board.
• Disconnect the GPS antenna flex cable and Wi-Fi antenna under the top speaker.
• Carefully detach the battery, charging port, and remaining flex cables.

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Disconnect Rear Camera

• Detach the rear camera connector.
• Remove the small bracket and Torx screw holding the top speaker.
• Take care not to damage the components near the camera module.

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Loosen the Battery

• Apply isopropyl alcohol under the battery and heat for five minutes.
• Carefully pry up the battery, which is adhered tightly.
• Note the 5G antenna cable running beneath the battery—this is soldered to the logic board.

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Remove 5G Antenna Connector

• Unscrew the small Phillips screw at the edge of the logic board securing the 5G antenna flex cable.
• Disconnect the flex cable, which wraps around the logic board edge.
• Ensure all flex cables are disconnected before proceeding to remove the logic board.

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Remove the Logic Board

• Gently lift and remove the entire logic board containing the A15 Bionic chip.
• Be cautious of any remaining screws—one last Torx screw may hold the top speaker in place.
• Set the board aside safely.

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Remove Front Camera & Top Speaker

• Disconnect the front camera from the board—it’s essential for Face ID functionality.
• Remove the top speaker and surrounding bracket which houses the proximity sensor and LiDAR scanner.
• These components are intricately linked to biometric security.

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Remove Charging Dock, Loudspeaker & Taptic Engine

• Detach the lower loudspeaker module and taptic engine from the chassis.
• Underneath lies the charging dock with Apple’s proprietary Lightning connector.
• Remove all remaining adhesive and screws to complete the teardown.

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CONCLUSION:

This iPhone 13 Pro Max teardown reveals Apple’s tightly integrated design, from the new Super Retina XDR display to the triple-lens camera setup and internal 5G hardware. Every step requires precision, especially with the soldered antenna cables and fragile screen assembly. While some components are modular, others—like the Face ID camera—are securely tied to the logic board. This teardown highlights both the innovation and complexity of Apple’s flagship device. Proceed carefully and refer to visuals when needed.

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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:

Need a professional repair? Send your device to our expert technicians for hassle-free service. Visit our website for more details!

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.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

For any repair-related questions, leave a comment below or contact our support team for assistance!

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

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