In today’s world, our phones and tablets are like our best friends. Our phones and tablets are like our trusty sidekicks, always there for us. They help us stay in touch with our friends and family, even if they’re far away. They guide us through new places and show us all sorts of things we didn’t know before. They’re like little pockets of knowledge and fun, always ready to entertain us. These devices have become a part of who we are, holding our memories and helping us navigate the world around us. But sometimes, they get hurt, like when we drop them and the screen cracks. Replacing a broken screen can be expensive, but there are ways to fix it yourself. It’s not too hard, and you’ll save a lot of money.

Spotlights

• Learn how your phone or tablet screen works and why it’s important to fix it.
• Identify the extent of your screen damage to determine if DIY repair is feasible.
• Equip yourself with the necessary tools and materials to tackle the repair process.

Are you tired of staring at that cracked screen on your phone or tablet? While repair shops can be costly, there are more budget-friendly alternatives for fixing your device. With a little bit of know-how and some affordable tools, you can learn how to fix your phone or tablet’s broken screen yourself. In this guide, we will walk you through the process, providing step-by-step instructions and tips to help you salvage your device. Whether it’s minor cracks, scratches, or a completely shattered screen, we’ve got you covered.

Understanding the Issue

Before diving into the DIY solutions, it’s important to understand the different types of screen damage and their potential fixes. Cracked screens can range from minor scratches and hairline cracks to full-on shattered glass. Additionally, some devices may have a protective film cover that can be easily replaced. By assessing the damage accurately, you can determine the best course of action.

Assessing the Damage

The first step in fixing your phone or tablet’s broken screen is to assess the extent of the damage. Sometimes, what may appear as a cracked screen could actually be a damaged screen protector. If you have a plastic bezel covering the front of your device, carefully pry it off to reveal the actual screen underneath. If the screen is intact, you may only need to replace the screen protector.

For tablets, the screen protector is typically a durable clear film that helps absorb shock and protect the touchscreen underneath. If the film cover is scratched or clouded, it can be easily peeled off and replaced with a new one, solving the problem without the need for further repairs.

DIY Solutions for Minor Cracks and Scratches

If the screen itself is cracked or scratched, there are several DIY solutions you can try before considering a full-screen replacement. These solutions are best suited for minor cracks and scratches and may not be effective for heavily damaged screens. Let’s explore some of these options:

Using an Oleophobic Coating Kit

One common issue with phone and tablet screens is the accumulation of fingerprints and smudges. These can make the screen look dirty and affect touch sensitivity. An oleophobic coating kit can help restore the screen’s smoothness, reduce fingerprints, and protect against future smudging.

To apply the coating, you’ll need some microfiber cleaning cloths, zipper plastic storage bags, and 70 percent isopropyl alcohol. Start by thoroughly cleaning the screen with isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth. Then, prepare a wiping finger by wrapping it with plastic wrap or a sandwich bag. Apply 10-15 drops of the coating liquid to the screen’s surface or a portion of it, working quickly to distribute the coating before it evaporates. Finally, wipe the screen dry with a clean microfiber cloth and allow the coating to dry for 8-12 hours.

Repairing with Magic Erasers or Pencil Erasers

For small scratches and cracks, you can try using household eraser pads or pencil erasers to minimize their appearance. Magic eraser products are known for their ability to clean and remove scratches from various surfaces. Moisten a corner of the cleaning pad and gently rub the scratch on your screen. Pencil erasers can also be effective in reducing the visibility of scratches. Rub the eraser back and forth over the scratch for about 60 seconds, then up and down for another 60 seconds.

It’s important to note that these methods are temporary fixes and may not completely eliminate the scratches or cracks. However, they can make them less noticeable and buy you some time until you can pursue a more permanent solution.

Temporary Fixes with Toothpaste and Sugru

Some unconventional methods for dealing with minor cracks involve toothpaste and Sugru, a moldable glue. Toothpaste can be used as a scratch remover for small scratches and cracks. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the affected area and gently rub it in using a soft cloth. This method is not a permanent solution and is best suited for temporary fixes.

Sugru, on the other hand, is a versatile glue that can be used to repair cracks in screens. While it wasn’t specifically designed for phone and tablet repairs, it can be a good starting point for fixing cracks that spread from the edges. Start by wiping and cleaning your screen with a soft cleaning towel. Then, use transparent adhesive tape to mark the area to be patched. Apply small quantities of Sugru to the cracked area, gradually adding more as needed. Remember, this is a temporary fix and may not be suitable for massive cracks that cover the entire screen.

Knowing When to Replace the Screen

While the DIY solutions mentioned above can be effective for minor cracks and scratches, there may come a point where screen replacement is the only viable option. If your screen is fully shattered, with spider cracks spreading across the entire surface, or if you’ve attempted temporary fixes without success, it’s time to consider replacing the screen.

Replacing a phone or tablet screen is a more involved process and requires careful preparation. Before diving into the replacement process, gather the necessary tools and materials and take the necessary safety precautions.

Preparing for Screen Replacement

Before you start the screen replacement process, it’s important to have the right tools and materials on hand. Ensure you have these essential components on hand before embarking on your DIY screen repair:

• Phone opener pry tool
• Little tweezers for dealing with small cables
• Torx screwdriver
• Flat-head screwdriver
• Precision screwdriver kit
• Variable hair dryer or heat gun
• Scissors
• Double-sided adhesive tape
• Canned air
• Work gloves

Additionally, it’s crucial to take safety precautions to avoid damaging your device or injuring yourself during the repair process. Consider using a static wristband and a static guard mat to prevent static discharge that could harm electronic components. Disconnecting the battery is not always enough to prevent static discharge, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Step-by-Step Guide to Screen Replacement

Replacing a phone or tablet screen involves a series of steps that need to be followed carefully. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

Teardown Process

• Remove the device’s back cover and pull out the main battery.
• Loosen any stuck-on cabling, such as the camera cable, and remove cables with exposed clasps.
• Unscrew the screws holding the motherboard-containing back frame to the LCD-containing chassis.
• Carefully detach the back frame from the chassis by applying gentle pulling force.
• Carefully disconnect any additional cable assemblies that are no longer concealed.
• Place the separated LCD-containing chassis aside in a safe location to prevent accidental damage or misplacement.
• Remove any additional parts, such as the camera.

Replacing the Screen

• Attach fresh two-sided tape to areas of the bezel that have lost their stickiness, avoiding the visual part of the glass.
• Reattach any foam padding or seals that were previously in place.
• Thread the digitizer cable and firmly press the new digitizer glass into place on the bezel.
• Use canned air to remove any dust from the LCD and glass.
• Reattach any additional parts, such as the camera.
• Reassemble the chassis, frame, and other components in the reverse order of the teardown process.

Final Thoughts and Tips

Replacing a damaged touchscreen or digitizer panel is not rocket science, but it does require attention to detail and careful execution. Here are a few final tips to keep in mind:

• Take your time and be patient during the entire process. Rushing can lead to mistakes and further damage.
• Follow visual guides and instructions from reliable sources, such as iFixit, to ensure you’re on the right track.
• Use a systematic approach and keep track of screws and cables to avoid confusion during reassembly.
• Pay attention to connections and ensure the clasps are open before attaching cables.
• Always reapply any existing metallic tape and count the screws to avoid leaving any loose parts.

With the right tools, preparation, and patience, you can successfully replace a broken screen and save money on repair costs.

Remember: Before attempting DIY repair, assess the damage thoroughly and ensure you have the necessary tools and skills. If unsure, seek professional assistance to prevent further damage to your device.

Learning how to fix your phone or tablet’s broken screen can save you both time and money. With the right tools, knowledge, and a bit of patience, you can tackle minor cracks, and scratches, and even replace a shattered screen yourself. Remember to assess the damage accurately and choose the appropriate DIY solution or screen replacement based on the severity of the issue. By following the step-by-step instructions and safety precautions outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to restore your device’s functionality and enjoy a clear, crack-free screen once again.

FAQs

1: Can I fix any type of screen damage?
Minor cracks or scratches can be fixed DIY. Extensive damage, such as spiderwebs or complete shattering, may require professional repair.

2: What are the risks of DIY screen repair?
Improper handling or inexperience can lead to further damage. Always follow instructions carefully and work with caution.

3: Where can I find replacement screens?
Replacement screens are available online or from electronics repair shops. Ensure the screen is compatible with your specific device model.