Google Pixel XL Rear Glass Replacement
This repair has not been tested or endorsed by Google.
- This guide was written by the iFixit staff.
- If you need more information about our guides, visit our website.
Follow this step-by-step to replace a shattered rear glass panel on your Google Pixel XL or change its color.
Step 1 | Rear Glass
Overheating can cause permanent damage to the display and internal battery.
- Apply heat for 2 minutes using an iOpener, hair dryer, heat gun, or hot plate.
- Be cautious not to overheat the phone during this process.
Step 2
Apply a suction cup near the edge when the glass is warm.
- Lift on the suction cup and insert an opening pick into the gap created.
- For badly cracked back glass, apply clear packing tape to aid suction cup adhesion.
- Alternatively, use strong tape or superglue the suction cup to the broken screen.
Be cautious of further cracking or shattering when attempting removal.
Reheat to loosen adhesive and facilitate easier removal.
- If edge crack present, slide an opening pick underneath and gently chip out glass.
Step 3
Use a opening pick to carefully slice through the perimeter adhesive of the glass panel.
- Ensure your slices are made above the NFC pad.
- If the adhesive becomes difficult to slice, reapply heat to the panel.
Step 4
Be cautious when handling cracked glass, as it can be extremely sharp.
- Press down firmly on the fingerprint sensor until it separates from the back glass.
- Slice through the adhesive underneath the back glass to continue removing the panel.
Step 5
Transfer the microphone mesh from the old rear glass if it's missing from the replacement.
- Insert an opening pick into a corner of the mesh and gently pry it up.
- Use tweezers to carefully remove the mesh from its adhesive backing.
Step 6
Any leftover adhesive can prevent proper installation of the new panel.
- Use a spudger or opening tool to completely remove all adhesives from the frame.
- Wipe away remaining residue with high concentration isopropyl alcohol (over 90%).
Step 7
Remove white backing from adhesive sheet, ensuring all cutouts are punched out.
- Lay bottom edge of adhesive along bottom edge of replacement glass panel.
- Mind the backside orientation: glass panel should be facing upwards.
- Slowly place adhesive onto glass panel.
- Gently rub fingers against adhesive to aid bonding process.
Step 8
Transfer the flash lens from old panel to new.
- Firmly press on lens with spudger or finger from outward-facing side of glass panel until it loosens.
- Remove and transfer lens to back side of replacement panel, ensuring fresnel rings are stacked vertically.
Step 9
- Remove the liner from the adhesive-backed glass panel.
- Position the glass panel along the bottom edge of the indentation.
- Lift the glass panel into place, ensuring proper alignment.
Step 10
Stack heavy books on top of the phone for 30 minutes.
- This helps to ensure a stronger bond between the back glass and the adhesive.