Google Pixel 3 Back Cover Replacement
This repair guide, written by iFixit staff, has not been authorized or endorsed by Google. Learn more about our guides. To access the Pixel 3's internal components, you must remove or replace the glass back cover, following this procedure.
- You will need double-sided tape, such as Tesa tape, to secure transferred parts.
Step 1 | Weaken the back cover's adhesive
Apply heat from an iOpener to the lower portion of the device for one minute.
Step 2 | Create a gap in the seam
Apply a suction cup to the heated bottom edge of the back cover.
- Verify you have the correct side (back cover) before proceeding.
- For cracked covers, apply clear packing tape for better suction adhesion.
Use strong force to create a gap, as significant force may be required depending on phone age.
If necessary, reapply heat with a hair dryer or heat gun and try again.
Insert an opening pick into the created gap.
Avoid using metal tools to prevent damage to the glass back cover.
Step 3 | Fingerprint cable information
Careful not to insert the opening pick too deeply, as it may damage the fingerprint sensor cable.
Step 4 | Cut through the adhesive
Insert a spudger into the gap between the screen and body at the bottom edge, carefully slicing the adhesive.
- Continue cutting around the right corner of the phone.
- Leave a pick in place along the bottom edge to prevent re-sealing.
Step 5
Apply heat to the right edge with an iOpener.
- Continue using an opening pick to slice the adhesive.
- If necessary, use a sawing motion on the pick to aid in cutting through stubborn gummy adhesive.
Step 6
Continue heating and slicing along the rest of the phone's edges.
- Leave a pick in each edge to prevent adhesive resealing.
- When approaching the power button, insert the pick no more than halfway to avoid damaging the fingerprint sensor cable.
Step 7 | Lift the left edge of the back cover
Locate the fingerprint sensor cable.
- Lift the left edge of the back cover, but do not attempt to remove it.
- Flip the back cover along its long axis and support it, keeping the fingerprint sensor cable relaxed.
Step 8 | Remove the screws
Remove the Phillips screws (2 x 4.1 mm) securing the fingerprint connector bracket.
- Keep track of each screw for reinstallation.
- During reassembly, avoid over-tightening to prevent display damage.
Step 9 | Remove the fingerprint connector bracket
Use the point of a spudger to slide the fingerprint connector bracket out from under the NFC coil.
- Remove the fingerprint connector bracket.
Step 10 | Disconnect the fingerprint connector
Be cautious when disconnecting connectors to avoid damaging surrounding components.
- Pry up the fingerprint connector from its socket using the point of a spudger.
- When reconnecting, align the connector carefully and press down on one side until it clicks into place, then repeat on the other side.
Do not press in the middle, as misalignment can cause pin bending and permanent damage.
Step 11 | Remove the back cover
Remove the back cover.
Ensure the phone frame is free of all adhesive residue before installing a replacement back cover.
- To clean, use an opening tool and high concentration isopropyl alcohol on the surface.
- If reusing the back cover, remove any remaining adhesive and apply new back cover adhesive.
- When installing a replacement back cover, compare it to the original part and transfer any remaining parts (e.g., flash diffuser) to the new part.
Incorrectly applying new back cover adhesive may result in improper sealing; refer to the guide for correct application instructions.