iPad mini 2/3 LCD

Mon problème

Front panel was severely damaged and needed to be replaced. In repairing that issue, removal of the LCD resulted in two LCD screw tabs being broken off so had to replace the LCD as well.

Ma solution

Separation of all adhered components was an unexpected experience of EVERYthing being "glued" together - especially the cables. Was difficult to identify cable versus adhesive as everything was black. Going slowly with well lit (Mighty Light) work area helps a lot. Both guides (Front Panel and LCD) replacement were good. Some pictures where most of what is visibile is all black could have been better with a closer-in shot with better lighting (reminds me of the infamous Chilton's car repair manual where so many of the pictures were so dark that you couldn't distinguish one part from another, though the Guide pics are no where near as bad as that).

Mon conseil

Need to be VERY careful when separating cables that are stuck together. Cleaning out old adhesive takes a long time (used a small flat head screwdriver to "scrape up" most of it into small balls that were then removed with tweezers, then used isopropyl alcohol to clean up). Taking pictures as you go can help see what you were doing. Even more helpful is marking up a picture of the spot where all of the connectors go so you can more easily identify what goes where. Be gentle when replacing the shield, LCD, and front panel - don't use too much pressure. Use the flat end of the "spudder" tool to help press tiny cable ends into their connector - gently. Use the same end to gently glide over the cable end, down its middle, to help make a tight connection. Don't force it.

When taking everything apart and you have the Front Panel replacement kit, use the "cubby holes" to safely store the various screws and other small parts. Lose a screw and you're ..... Label the slots with what is in them and then tape a Post-It note over the slot. Really helps with re-install.

When inserting the many TINY screws - I reused my fairly extensive experience with installing computer motherboards: if the screw isn't correctly placed in the hole (ie; vertical, or upright) then keeping contact between the screw and screwdriver, slowly and gently "back out" the screw (counterclockwise) until the threads "pop up" and the screw reseats itself in the hole. Never force a screw that "hangs up". You should always be able to gently screw in any screw.

The Irwin Quick-Grip clamps make it very easy to apply pressure to help the front panel adhere completely without causing any damage.

Mon problème

My iPad again failed due to a weak outer frame and parts that are so weak because they have to be so small for today's current human being to be able to lift it off the table that I am fixing it again. I have no idea what happened this time but some icons would not activate unless I rotated the screen which indicates dead spots on the LCD and then a million lines across the screen showed up . My iPad was in the most expensive protective case I could buy, the Lifeproof Fre. And just so you know it doesn't even come close to meeting their drop test standards by any means. Their case is weak and it's hard and has no impact resistance what so ever. I bought this case because it came with a car mount so I can use it as a GPS but other than that you might as well wrap it in bubble wrap. I am now in a Griffon Survivor that at least has some give and is thick..and yes it is heavier but that just means you may have to hit the gym for some arm curls or just use the stand it comes with.

Ma solution

The repair went fine. This is not the first time I have repaired this weak iPad so I had everything apart and waited for the new parts that took me less than 30 minutes to put in.

Mon conseil

Save your money and buy a rugged, HD tablet that yes may cost over $1000.00 but those will last forever as they are used by the military and professions that take their tablets into the field...literally. This is what I am doing the next time. It's too bad Apple doesn't at least provide an iPad that can take more abuse. I myself would pay a little more to get a better built rugged frame so I don't have to fix this POS every 3 months.

Mon problème

Touchscreen was broken beyond functioning. LCD looked ok, but maybe had hairline crack.

Ma solution

Taking old touchscreen off was not too bad, but glue was very difficult at top edge. I had to keep reheating. The iFixit instructions have many steps for trying to preserve the touchscreen, but most of the time you'll be removing a broken one. Use tape and make a loop with the tape to help pull up.

Hardest problem was frame was bent and corner smashed in so new touchscreen didn't fit well. Make sure touchscreen lays flat and fits easily. Do NOT force the touchscreen or it will crack. Straighten the frame and clean any old glue off with alcohol so the touchscreen adheres well.

Mon conseil

When removing LCD, do NOT pry from top as pictured in the iFixit instructions. You will crack the LCD. It is VERY fragile. Instead, slide spudger along left and right sides and push sideways on LCD slightly to unstick any glue and make sure the LCD is not hooked under the lip of the frame on the sides. After that, tip the LCD up starting at the top using wide spatula slid all the way underneath, and then stab at the tape at the bottom edge of the LCD to unhook the tape.

When replacing the LCD, make sure the shield plate lays flat so the LCD does not push up against the touchscreen or the touchscreen will be flaky.

Mon problème

Original problem was that glass on the front of the iPad broke.

Ma solution

The repair on the screen went very well until attempting to remove the LCD. The bottom of the LCD was very difficult to remove during the first disassembly. While gently pulling up on the top of the LCD, the bottom was stuck, causing to much pressure on the lower left hand corner of the LCD. during reassembly I tested the screen and LCD with the iPad still "open", which was when I realized the LCD was ruined. At this point I almost decided to cut my losses and buy a new iPad.... But I delayed. After a few months I finally decided to spring for the LCD, which went in super easy. Now my iPad works great.

Mon conseil

Be more than careful with the LCD. In fact, I would recommend peeling off the sticky tabs/tape at the bottom of the LCD with a razor before attempting to remove the LCD.

In hind sight I probably wouldn't have paid ~$170 to refurb my iPad mini 2... But one repair led to another... Oh well. At least it works now! As always iFixit provided high quality parts and provides excellent tutorials.