How To Know When Your Iphone Battery Needs Replacing

How to replace the battery in an iPhone 5

If you're starting to experience greatly reduced battery life on your iPhone 5 but aren't ready to upgrade yet, you can always try a DIY repair. Not only is it easy, but it's a whole lot more affordable than a new iPhone. Follow along and we'll walk you through from start to finish!

What you need to DIY replace the battery in an iPhone 5

You'll need some tools and parts in order to repair your iPhone 5. iMore recommends using only quality and genuine parts from a reputable supplier like iFixYouri. They have quality parts, tools, and much more for all your repair needs.

Replacement battery for iPhone 5
Suction cup
5-point security screwdriver
Standard #000 Phillips screwdriver
Spudger tool
Razor blade
iSesamo Opening tool

Step 1: Power off your iPhone 5

How to DIY replace a blown earpiece on an iPhone 5

Before beginning any repair, always power your iPhone down completely using the Slide to power off option. Easy enough right?

Step 2: Remove the front screen assembly

How to DIY replace a blown earpiece on an iPhone 5

Alternate method: If you're having issues pulling the screen up with a suction cup, you may insert a razor blade on the outer edge of either screw hold and pry upwards slightly. This method gives you enough clearance to stick your spudger tool underneath and release the screen. I recommend this method if your hands aren't as steady or you're afraid you may pull too hard and damage a cable.

Step 3: Replace the battery

I'll preface this section by saying the plastic battery tabs to pull to release them are useless. They break off or bend the battery. You can try that method but I suggest following my instructions below instead.

It is important while performing the steps above that you're careful to not puncture or bend the battery. Just take your time and you'll get there. Don't rush and don't force it.

Now you can insert the new battery. Pay attention to the connector cable as you may have to bend it to shape slightly if it isn't already. Also peel off any adhesive backing from the rear of the battery.
Reconnect the battery connector by carefully lining it up and pressing firmly with your finger.
Reposition the battery shield and use your #000 screwdriver to replace the two screws.

Step 4: Reconnect the display assembly

Step 5: Test the battery

In order to test the battery, simply power on your iPhone 5 and make sure it works. It's a good idea to charge it all the way and make sure the battery holds a full charge and doesn't deplete too rapidly, which could be the sign of a faulty replacement. Also make sure your iPhone 5 doesn't get warmer than it should while charging, another sign of a faulty battery.

If everything went as planned, you should be in working order again! If not, check out our iMore forums and do a quick search for help and answers to commonly asked DIY questions.