A cracked iPhone back glass affects more than just appearance. The damage can stop wireless charging from working properly and lets water get inside the phone. Users can fix cracked iPhone back glass through DIY methods or professional repair services, with costs ranging from $30 for self-repair to $200+ at Apple stores.
iPhone back glass replacement requires careful handling and specific tools. The process involves heating the glass, removing adhesive, and disconnecting internal cables. Different iPhone models need different approaches, and newer phones like the iPhone 15 can use Apple’s Repair Assistant to pair new genuine parts.
People who attempt back glass repair should understand the risks involved. The repair can damage internal components if done incorrectly. Professional repair services offer warranties and expertise, while DIY repairs save money but require patience and skill.
How to Repair Cracked iPhone Back Glass: Steps & Tips
A cracked back glass on your iPhone not only looks unsightly but can also affect the device’s durability. Repairing it requires care and the right tools. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you fix a cracked iPhone back glass safely.
What You’ll Need:
- Replacement back glass for your iPhone model
- Heat gun or hairdryer
- Suction cups
- Plastic opening tools or guitar picks
- Pentalobe and Phillips screwdrivers
- Tweezers
- Adhesive strips or glue designed for smartphones
- Isopropyl alcohol and microfiber cloth
- Safety glasses and gloves (recommended)
Step-by-Step Repair Guide
1. Power Off Your iPhone
- Turn off your iPhone completely to prevent any damage or short circuits during repair.
2. Heat the Back Glass
- Use a heat gun or hairdryer to warm the back glass evenly. This softens the adhesive holding the glass in place.
- Be careful not to overheat; keep the heat source moving and avoid overheating the battery.
3. Use Suction Cups and Plastic Tools to Lift the Glass
- Attach suction cups to the back glass to gently lift it.
- Insert plastic opening tools or guitar picks between the glass and the frame to carefully pry the glass away.
- Work slowly around the edges to avoid cracking the glass further or damaging internal components.
4. Remove the Broken Glass
- Once loosened, carefully remove the cracked glass.
- Use tweezers to pick out any small shards stuck inside.
- Dispose of broken glass safely.
5. Clean the Surface
- Use isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth to clean off residue and old adhesive from the phone’s frame.
- Ensure the surface is smooth and free of dust for the new glass to adhere properly.
6. Apply New Adhesive
- Apply adhesive strips or glue designed for smartphone repairs evenly around the frame where the new glass will sit.
7. Install the Replacement Back Glass
- Carefully align the new back glass with the phone’s frame.
- Press firmly but gently to ensure it sticks well and there are no gaps.
8. Let the Adhesive Cure
- Allow the adhesive to set as per the manufacturer’s instructions, usually for several hours.
9. Power On and Test Your iPhone
- Turn your iPhone back on and check that everything functions normally.
Tips for a Successful Repair
- Use quality replacement parts specific to your iPhone model.
- Be patient and gentle to avoid damaging internal components like the camera or battery.
- Wear safety gear to protect yourself from glass shards.
- Consider professional help if you’re uncomfortable performing the repair yourself.
- Watching a detailed video tutorial can help visualize the process (e.g., this step-by-step guide).
Repairing your iPhone’s cracked back glass can restore its look and protect its internals, saving you from costly replacements. Follow these steps carefully for the best results.
Key Takeaways
- Cracked iPhone back glass affects wireless charging and water resistance, not just appearance
- Repair options include DIY methods starting at $30 or professional services costing $200 or more
- The repair process requires specific tools, heating techniques, and careful handling of internal components
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding repair costs, service locations, and repair methods helps iPhone users make informed decisions about their cracked back glass. Different iPhone models and geographic locations can affect both pricing and repair options significantly.
What are the typical costs associated with iPhone back glass replacement?
Professional iPhone back glass replacement typically costs between $150 to $400. The price depends on the specific iPhone model and repair service chosen.
Newer iPhone models like the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 cost more to repair than older models. The iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 usually fall in the middle price range.
Apple Store repairs cost the most but offer genuine parts and warranty coverage. Third-party repair shops often charge 30% to 50% less than Apple’s official pricing.
DIY repair kits cost between $30 to $80 but require technical skills and proper tools. These kits include replacement glass, adhesive, and basic repair tools.
Can an iPhone back glass be repaired if it was in a case when it cracked?
Yes, iPhone back glass can be repaired regardless of whether a case was present during the crack. The case does not affect the repair process or methods available.
Cases may actually help contain glass fragments and prevent further damage. This can make the repair process safer and sometimes easier for technicians.
Remove the case completely before starting any repair work. Clean any glass fragments from both the phone and case before reassembly.
The repair steps remain the same whether the phone was in a case or not. The crack pattern might differ slightly but does not change repair difficulty.
Are there cost variations for back glass repair based on location?
Repair costs vary significantly based on geographic location and local market conditions. Urban areas typically have higher repair costs than rural locations.
Major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles charge premium prices for iPhone repairs. Smaller cities and towns often offer more competitive pricing.
Labor costs in different regions directly impact repair pricing. Areas with higher minimum wages generally have higher repair service costs.
Competition between repair shops also affects pricing. Areas with many repair options tend to have lower average costs than areas with limited services.
What are the best methods for repairing an iPhone back glass?
Professional repair by certified technicians offers the most reliable results. These services use proper tools, genuine or high-quality parts, and provide warranties.
DIY repair using quality repair kits works for technically skilled users. This method requires patience, proper tools, and careful attention to detail.
Heat application softens the adhesive holding the back glass. Hair dryers or heat guns warm the glass safely without damaging internal components.
Opening picks and suction cups help remove cracked glass pieces safely. These tools prevent damage to internal components during the removal process.
How does the iPhone 13 model back glass replacement cost compare to other models?
iPhone 13 back glass replacement costs typically range from $200 to $300 at professional repair shops. This places it in the middle range compared to other iPhone models.
The iPhone 13 costs less to repair than the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 models. Newer models use more expensive materials and require specialized techniques.
Older iPhone models like the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 cost slightly less to repair. The iPhone 13 shares similar repair complexity with the iPhone 12.
Apple charges around $349 for iPhone 13 back glass replacement through their official service. Independent repair shops typically charge $100 to $150 less for similar quality work.
Where can I find reliable iPhone repair services in my area?
Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers offer official repair services with genuine parts. These locations provide warranties and certified technician expertise.
Local electronics repair shops often provide competitive pricing and faster service times. Check online reviews and ask about warranties before choosing a service.
Chain repair services like uBreakiFix and CPR Cell Phone Repair operate in many cities. These companies offer standardized service quality and often provide warranties.
Online repair services accept mail-in repairs for users without local options. These services typically take longer but may offer competitive pricing and quality work.
