Google Pixel 3 XL Back Cover Adhesive Installation
This guide is provided by iFixit staff, not affiliated with Google. Read more about our guides here. Follow these steps to apply new adhesive to your Pixel 3 XL's back cover after a repair:
- You should already have removed the back cover and set it aside.
- For details on how to remove the back cover, see this guide.
Step 1 | Remove adhesive residue from the frame
Never use metal tools when scraping away adhesive — risk of damaging the frame.
- Scrape off old adhesive from the frame using a plastic spudger.
- If necessary, use another spudger to remove remaining adhesive residue.
- Clean the area underneath removed adhesive with 90% or greater isopropyl alcohol
Step 2 | Remove adhesive residue from the back cover
Avoid using metal tools on the back cover adhesive to prevent damaging the coating.
- Use a non-abrasive tool, such as a plastic scraper or credit card, to remove remaining adhesive.
- Avoid using isopropyl alcohol near the rear camera bracket to prevent damage to its adhesive and foam.
Step 3 | Prepare the replacement adhesive
Remove the plastic liner to access the adhesive's exposed backing.
Step 4 | Apply the adhesive
Careful: Adhesive is extremely sticky and irreversible.
- Position the adhesive over the frame.
- Align with frame's holes for proper fit and seal.
Step 5 | Secure the adhesive to the frame
Press the flat end of a spudger or your finger nail onto the adhesive.
- Slide along the perimeter to secure the adhesive in place.
Step 6 | Connect the fingerprint sensor
Guide the fingerprint sensor cable into its socket using a pair of tweezers.
Ensure the cable is properly seated before proceeding.
Press down on the latch to secure the cable in place.
Step 7 | Peel away the remaining plastic lining
Remove the plastic covering from the adhesive to reveal its backing.
Step 8 | Secure the back cover to the frame
Lower the back cover onto the frame.
Apply even pressure to all edges of the back cover to secure it to the frame, avoiding damage.
- Heat the perimeter of the back cover.
- Place the phone face-down under a heavy stack of books for at least 30 minutes to aid adhesive bonding.