Google Nexus 4 Charging Port Repair

     One of the great annoyances in technology is how short of a lifespan it has. I've never been one to readily discard my electronics when they stop working so when the charging port on my Nexus 4 died, rather than getting rid of an ancient device which should have gone to the e-waste bin several years ago I decided to repair it.

     In order to pull off this fix, there are a couple of prerequisites. You will need a replacement charging port as well as a precision screwdriver set that includes #0 Philips and #5 Torx bits. A plastic prying implement is also required although you might be able to make due with a guitar pick. Last but not least you will need your SIM card removal tool. You will also, of course, need your Nexus 4.

Replacement charging port: http://amzn.to/2oFLl01
Precision screwdriver set: http://amzn.to/2td0Dyh
Cheaper precision screwdriver set: http://amzn.to/2tg2rpZ

     The first order of business is to remove the two Torx head screws which hold the phone together. For convenience, I like to place the screws on a magnetic parts mat.

After you have removed the screws you will need to separate the back of the phone from the frame. To do this you will have to use one of your pry tools as there are catches around the edge of the phone. This part can be quite tricky so be patient and take your time.

     Once the back has been removed you can carefully unscrew and then remove the speaker housing. It should come off with a bit of prying.

     After that, you should disconnect this white wire which connects to the charging port circuit board. Be careful here as the wire seems rather fragile. Also, remove the wire from the clamps which hold it in place.

     Now you can disconnect the flexible connector with a pry tool. The PCB is held in with a light adhesive simply continue prying, working from the area you disconnected to the bottom left of the phone.

     Once you have removed the old PCB you can replace it with the new one. Simply align the new PCB and firmly press it in place so it re-adheres to the phone.

     From this point, the steps are basically the reverse of what we did previously. Firmly Reconnect the flexible ribbon connector to the main board and reconnect the wire. Everything locks into place with light pressure. However, be careful when re-routing the white wire as it feels as if it could easily be damaged.

     Next, replace the main board housing and reinsert the screws. Make sure you do not overtighten the screws as the heads can easily be stripped. When tightening screws that go into soft plastic it is important not to use too much pressure. Just tighten the screws till snug.

     After this, you can re-attach the speaker housing. It should snap right into place. Then replace the two screws we removed in step three.

     The back of the phone easily snaps into place. Make sure you inspect the edge of the phone to make sure it is seated properly and there are no gaps. It may take a bit of force in order for the seam to become completely flush.

     Now you can replace and tighten the two #5 Torx screws which we removed in the beginning. After that, you are done!

     Hopefully, you were able to make it to the end and now have a working charging port! Pat yourself on the back you were able to do complete a repair that might cost a good chunk of change to get done professionally.

      Please carefully read through all the steps in this guide before you attempt and make sure you have the appropriate tools and supplies. I am not responsible for damages two your property (although you don't have much to lose if your charging port is broken) or yourself.