Google Pixel 3 Fingerprint Sensor Replacement - Google Pixel 3

Step 1 | Weaken the back cover's adhesive

Apply heat to the bottom of the device with an iOpener for 1 minute.

Step 2 | Create a gap in the seam

Apply a suction cup to the heated bottom edge of the back cover.

Make sure you did not mistake the screen side for the back cover side.

If the back cover is badly cracked, cover it with a layer of clear packing tape before applying the suction cup.
Lift on the suction cup with strong, steady force to create a gap.

Depending on age, significant force may be required. If having trouble, apply more heat and try again.

Insert an opening pick into the gap.

Do not use metal tools to pry or you will mar or shatter the glass back cover.

If the panel won't budge, apply more heat with a hair dryer or heat gun.

Step 3 | Fingerprint cable information

Do not insert the opening pick too far into the device.

Insert the pick above the power button.

Be careful to avoid damaging the fingerprint sensor cable.

Step 4 | Cut through the adhesive

Use a tool to carefully slice the adhesive along the bottom edge of the phone and around the right corner.

Insert a prying tool into the gap, leaving it in place to hold the adhesive apart.

Be careful not to damage any internal components during this process.

Step 5

Apply heat to the right edge using an iOpener.

Slice the remaining adhesive using an opening pick.
Push the pick in and out in a sawing motion to aid in slicing.

The adhesive may be particularly gummy, requiring extra care when handling the opening pick.

Step 6

Continue heating and slicing through the phone's perimeter.

Leave a pick in each edge to prevent the adhesive from resealing.

Do not insert the pick more than halfway above the power button, as this may damage the fingerprint sensor cable.

Step 7 | Lift the left edge of the back cover

Do not attempt to remove the back cover yet.

Lift the left edge of the back cover.
The fingerprint sensor cable will still be attached.
Flip the back cover along its long axis, resting it to prevent cable strain.

Step 8 | Remove the screws

Remove two 4.1 mm Phillips screws securing the fingerprint connector bracket.

Keep track of each screw and ensure it returns to its original location.

Do not over-tighten these screws during reassembly, or you may damage your display.

Step 9 | Remove the fingerprint connector bracket

Use the tip of a spudger to carefully slide the fingerprint connector bracket out from under the NFC coil.
Once freed, remove the fingerprint connector bracket.

Step 10 | Disconnect the fingerprint connector

Do not dislodge small surface-mounted components surrounding the socket when disconnecting.

Use a spudger to pry up and disconnect the fingerprint connector from its socket.

Re-attach by carefully aligning and pressing down on one side until it clicks, then repeat on the other side. Do not press down on the middle.

Risk of pin damage if misaligned.

Step 11 | Remove the back cover

Remove the back cover.

If reusing, scrape off old adhesive with an opening tool and clean with high concentration isopropyl alcohol.
If replacing, apply new adhesive, ensuring it matches the original part. Transfer parts like the flash diffuser to your replacement.

Always compare replacement back cover with the original before installation.

Step 12 | Weaken the adhesive

Apply iOpener to the back of the fingerprint sensor for 1 min.

Pry up the fingerprint sensor with an opening tool inserted under its lip.

Step 13 | Remove the fingerprint sensor

Remove the fingerprint sensor.

Apply custom pre-cut adhesive, or use Tesa tape, to reattach the fingerprint sensor onto the back cover.