How to Change an iPhone Battery

Changing an iPhone battery is a precise repair that involves opening the phone, disconnecting the display, and carefully removing the adhesive that holds the battery. If you’re comfortable with small screws and delicate connectors, you can do it at home for a fraction of the cost of a service center. This guide covers the general process for most recent iPhone models (iPhone 6 through iPhone 14 series), but note that the exact screw locations and connector layouts vary slightly by model. Always check a model-specific guide or video before starting.

What You’ll Need

Replacement battery designed for your exact iPhone model
Pentalobe screwdriver (for the two bottom screws)
Phillips #000 screwdriver
Suction cup (or iOpener / heat gun)
Plastic opening picks or spudger
Adhesive strips or a pre-cut adhesive frame for the new battery
Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) and a lint-free cloth
A magnetic mat or tray to keep screws organized
Optional: anti-static wrist strap, tweezers, and a battery pull-tab tool

Step-by-Step

Power off and remove the bottom screws. Turn off your iPhone completely. Using the pentalobe screwdriver, remove the two screws at the bottom edge (next to the Lightning port). Keep them separate, as they are not interchangeable with other screws.
Heat the display edges. Use a hair dryer or heat gun on low, or an iOpener, to soften the adhesive around the display. Apply heat for 1–2 minutes along the edges, but avoid overheating the screen or the battery area.
Lift the display. Place a suction cup near the home button (or bottom edge on newer models). Pull gently to create a gap, then insert an opening pick. Slide the pick along the edges to break the adhesive. Work slowly to avoid cracking the glass.
Open the phone like a book. Tilt the display up from the bottom, but don’t pull it away completely—the display cables are still attached. Rest the display against a heavy object or have a friend hold it.
Disconnect the battery and display cables. Use a spudger to gently pry up the battery connector (usually at the lower right). Then disconnect the display cables (front camera, screen, and digitizer) from the logic board. The order matters: battery first, then display.
Remove the display assembly. Once all cables are free, you can set the display aside. Be careful with the home button (on older models) and the Face ID components (on newer models) if you need to transfer them to the new display later.
Remove the old battery. Pull the adhesive pull-tabs (usually two or three) in the direction indicated. If they break, use a plastic card or spudger to carefully pry the battery up. Never use a metal tool or puncture the battery. If the battery is swollen, stop and seek professional help.
Install the new battery. Place the new battery into position, but don’t press it down yet. Connect the battery connector to the logic board, then press the battery into place. If your battery uses adhesive strips, apply them before placing the battery.
Reconnect the display and reassemble. Reconnect the display cables, then the battery connector (last). Close the display, press down gently to seat it, and replace the two bottom screws. Power on the phone and check that everything works.

Common Mistakes

Using the wrong screwdriver or forcing screws—stripped screws are a nightmare.
Prying the battery with a metal tool, which can puncture it and cause a fire.
Pulling the display too far, tearing the delicate cables.
Forgetting to disconnect the battery before disconnecting the display, which can short-circuit the board.
Not transferring the home button or Face ID components correctly, breaking Touch ID or Face ID.
Leaving fingerprints on the adhesive, which reduces its sticking power.

Tips

Use a magnetic mat or tape to keep screws sorted by location—they are not all the same.
Work in a well-lit area and consider wearing reading glasses if needed.
If you’re nervous, watch a model-specific teardown video first.
Apply new adhesive to the display before closing, even if it seems sticky enough.
After reassembly, charge the phone for at least 30 minutes before a full cycle.

Troubleshooting

Phone won’t power on: Check that the battery connector is fully seated and that you connected it last. Also, ensure the display cables are properly locked in.
Screen flickers or has lines: Reconnect the display cables, making sure they are clean and fully inserted. If the problem persists, you may have damaged a cable.
Battery percentage not showing or shows “Service”: This can happen if the new battery is not genuine or the connector is not seated. Try reseating, and if it continues, the battery may be defective.
Adhesive pull-tabs broke: Use a plastic card to gently pry the battery up. If it’s stubborn, apply heat to soften the adhesive, but avoid the battery itself.
Phone says “Face ID not available”: This often means the Face ID cable was damaged or not reconnected properly. Check the flex cable and reseat it.
Home button doesn’t work (older models): The home button is paired to the phone; if you damaged its cable, it won’t work. You may need to transfer the original button to the new display.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace the battery myself without special tools?

Technically possible, but not recommended. The adhesive is strong, and the connectors are fragile. A suction cup and spudger are essential.

How long does a replacement battery last?

Typically 2–3 years of normal use, but it depends on charging habits and usage.

Will I lose my data?

No, as long as you don’t damage the logic board or storage. Your data is safe during a battery swap.

Can I use any battery brand?

It’s best to use a battery from a reputable brand or an original Apple battery. Cheap knockoffs may have lower capacity or safety issues.

What if my iPhone has a swollen battery?

Stop immediately. A swollen battery is a fire hazard. Do not attempt to remove it yourself; take it to a professional.

Is it worth replacing the battery or should I buy a new phone?

If your iPhone is otherwise functional, a battery replacement is a cost-effective fix. If the phone is very old or has other issues, a new phone might be better.

Sources: Apple Support. Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.