OnePlus Nord CE Mainboard Replacement

Replacing a single damaged component can be complicated due to its soldered nature.

The mainboard holds key components such as the SoC, RAM and UFS storage chip, cameras and more.
For this reason, it may be simpler to replace the entire mainboard rather than attempting individual component repairs.

Step 1 | Removing the back cover

Use caution when handling hot objects — risk of burn.

Apply heat to the back cover using an iOpener.
Lift the back cover with a Suction Handle, then insert an Opening Pick under it.

Step 2 | Removing the rear housing

Remove the SIM card tray from its slot, located near the selfie camera.
Phillips #00 screwdriver: Remove 18 screws holding the rear housing in place.

Be cautious when handling screws to avoid losing them.

Use an Opening Pick to gently pry between the side rim and midframe's outer rim, starting near the SIM card or side button cut-outs.
Continue prying around the edges of the rear housing until it is completely unclipped from its clips.

Step 3 | Disconnecting the battery

Use a Spudger to pry the battery connector upwards.

Ensure the connector's contacts remain separated.

Step 4 | Detaching the mainboard

Lift cameras up from midframe.

Detach selfie camera connector by lifting with Spudger.
Disconnect antenna cables using a Spudger to lift connectors, then unclip cables from mainboard.

Use Nylon-tipped Reverse Tweezers when reattaching connectors for easier alignment.

Disconnect flexible printed circuits leading to daughterboard by lifting connectors with a Spudger.
Lift mainboard from top-right corner and move it top and right, away from battery and left-hand side clip.