Google Pixel 3 Back Cover Adhesive Installation
This guide was written by the iFixit staff and is not endorsed by Google. For more information about our guides, click here. To apply new adhesive to your Pixel 3's back cover after a repair:
- Ensure you have already removed the back cover and set it aside.
- For detailed removal instructions, refer to this guide: link to removal guide.
Step 1 | Remove adhesive residue from the frame
Remove old adhesive from frame using fingers or a blunt tool.
- Spudger can be used for stubborn areas.
Avoid using metal tools to scrape adhesive, as they may damage the frame.
Thoroughly clean area with 90% or greater isopropyl alcohol before applying new adhesive.
Step 2 | Remove adhesive residue from the back cover
Do not use metal tools to remove back cover adhesive — may damage the back cover coating.
- Repeat the previous step for removing adhesive from the back cover.
- Avoid using isopropyl alcohol near the rear camera bracket, as it can harm its adhesive and foam.
Step 3 | Prepare the replacement adhesive
Remove the clear plastic liner to reveal the
Step 4 | Apply the adhesive
Adhesive is extremely sticky and non-repositionable — misalignment risks an improper seal.
- Lower the adhesive onto the frame.
- Align using the rear camera and corners.
Step 5 | Secure the adhesive to the frame
Press down on the adhesive with the flat end of a spudger or your finger nail.
- Slide along the perimeter to secure the adhesive to the
Step 6 | Peel away the outer plastic lining
Remove the blue protective film from the back cover area.
Step 7 | Connect the fingerprint sensor cable
Position the fingerprint sensor cable over its connector on the motherboard.
- Use tweezers or your fingers to guide the cable into place.
- Press down on the connector using the flat end of a spudger or your finger.
Step 8
Use tweezers or your fingers to position the bracket over the fingerprint sensor cable.
Step 9
Install the 2 x 4.1 mm screws using a Phillips PH00 screwdriver.
Step 10 | Peel away the remaining plastic lining
Remove the red plastic lining to access the back cover side of the adhesive.
Step 11 | Secure the back cover to the frame
Place the back cover onto the frame.
- Press down firmly on all edges to secure it.
- To enhance adhesion, heat the back cover's perimeter and then leave your phone face-down under a heavy book stack for 30 minutes.