Most frequently asked questions:
How to remove iCloud activation lock on Apple Watch Series 5 - If you have forgotten the
password from your iCloud account, then there is only one way - replacing the motherboard.
Does replacing the motherboard unlock the Apple Watch Series 5 - Yes,
after replacing the motherboard, you get like a new Apple Watch 5 without an iCloud lock.
Where can I buy a motherboard for my Apple Watch Series 5 - There are several websites
where sellers take apart Apple Watch 5 and sell motherboards,
for example on eBay. Anyway, I left a link to the motherboard in the description.
Can I install an Apple Watch Series 5 motherboard into a different model, for example, in Series 3 -
Actually, there is only one successful experience of installing an Apple Watch Series 5 motherboard
into a different model Apple Watch SE. Link to this video guide I left in the description.
Welcome to HowFixit. In this video guide,
I'll show you how to replace the motherboard in Apple Watch Series 5
To disassemble Apple Watch 5, you'll need the following tools:
Screwdriver set with tri-wing 0.8mm screwdriver Tweezers
Plastic tools Adhesive Sticker
Glue - I will use B7000 glue due to its high elasticity,
anti-vibration, and water resistance properties. Screen Disassembly Tool - This tool has a very
thin curved metal blade for opening electronic devices with a screen that is difficult to pry
with a common plastic tool. I think this is a must-have tool for disassembling an Apple
Watch all series because the gap between the screen and the watch body is so thin.
I recommend using a magnetic mat during the repair process, which is especially useful in the case
of the Apple Watch Series 5. Throughout this disassembly, keep track of each screw and part
so you can put them back in the right places - this will help successfully reassemble your
Apple Watch 5. And don't worry about losing any screws and small parts, all of them will
definitely remain on the magnetic mat. I left links where to buy all the
necessary tools in the description. During the display opening process of
the Apple Watch Series 5, you might damage the Force Touch gasket. If you separate the gasket
layers or cut the cable, you'll also need to replace the Force Touch cable itself.
But don't worry, this cable costs around five dollars and is easy to replace if damaged.
This video guide shows the repair process on the Apple Watch Series 5 version GPS-only,
but the Apple Watch 5 version with LTE has a similar repair process.
Before you start, turn off the Apple Watch 5. Insert the edge of the curved blade into the thin
gap between the display and the watch case. From this position,
gradually begin to separate the display. For a more successful opening of the watch case,
warm up the surface of the display with a regular hair dryer.
To avoid damaging internal components, try not to push the blade deep inside the watch.
Carefully fold the screen to the back.
Don't worry if you tear off that part of the black foil,
this doesn't apply to the mainboard ribbon cable.
Now, using tweezers, carefully peel off the black tape covering the three display ribbon cables.
Use a plastic tool to open the locking tabs on the display.
The two sides of the black tape peeled off,
now carefully pull the display ribbon cables out of their connectors.
If the Force Touch gasket is damaged,
remove the remaining layers from the display frame and the apple watch housing.
The Apple Watch battery is glued to the watch body, you can use isopropyl alcohol
to safely remove the battery. Add some isopropyl alcohol
under the battery and wait a bit. Use a plastic tool to pry out the battery.
Remove one screw and disconnect the battery cable.
Disconnect the cable and remove the vibration module.
Now slightly press down on the motherboard to separate the back glass,
along with the motherboard, from the outer housing of the Apple Watch.
Be careful with these little springs, they are very easy to lose.
Disconnect the mainboard ribbon cable from the back glass.
Now you can replace the motherboard. In the description, I left a link where to
buy the motherboard for Apple Watch Series 5
The motherboard for Apple Watch Series 5 available in two versions GPS + LTE or GPS-only.
If you look closer at the motherboard version of GPS + LTE, you will see these components,
that are not on the version GPS-only motherboard. Otherwise, these two motherboards are completely
identical and interchangeable. Even if your watch has LTE, you can install a GPS-only version
motherboard in your watch and it will work fine. Let's start reassembling the Apple Watch 5.
Before continuing assembly, make sure that the button of the locking mechanism works fine.
Use double-sided adhesive tape to re-glued the battery to the watch body.
Before gluing the display to the main housing, test the watch and check all functions.
Setup your Apple Watch 5 and test all functions, sensors, wireless charger, etc.
It looks like the watch is working fine, now you can proceed to the final part of the assembly.
Let's move on to gluing the display with the housing, this will restore protection
from water and dust. You can use a special adhesive sticker for your Apple Watch 5 or
silicone glue. In my opinion, for protection against water and dust, glue is more effective.
To fix the display and the main housing, you can use clips or rubber bands.
The B7000 glue dries completely after 24 hours, but the minimum surface drying time
is 6 minutes. So, I recommend waiting at least 45 minutes, after which you can remove excess glue.
This repair is complete, you were on HowFixit, and see you next time!