I can recall the day when I accidentally dropped my Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus. It was one of those heart-stopping moments where you see your phone slip from your hand, almost in slow motion, before it crashes to the ground. That dreaded sound of glass shattering echoed in my mind as I quickly picked up the phone, hoping for the best but expecting the worst.

When I flipped it over, my fears were confirmed, the rear camera lens was cracked. As someone who relies heavily on my smartphone for everything from photography to video calls, this was a significant blow. Initially, I felt a surge of panic at the thought of an expensive repair or the hassle of sending it away. However, after some research, I realized that replacing rear-facing cameras on the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus was a task I could handle myself with a bit of patience and the right tools.

Here I shall share my experience and provide a step-by-step process for replacing the rear-facing cameras on your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus. We shall start with the tools you shall need, then move on to the process itself, and finally, I shall share some tips and tricks to make the repair as smooth as possible.

Tools Needed

Before starting the repair, it is crucial to gather all the necessary tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make the process much more manageable and help prevent any additional damage to your phone. Here is a list of tools you shall need for the repair:

• Phillips 00 screwdriver: This small screwdriver is essential for removing the tiny screws that hold the phone together.
• Plastic opening tools: These are used to pry open the phone without damaging the delicate components inside.
• Suction cup: This tool helps to lift the back cover of the phone once the adhesive is softened.
• Tweezers:Useful for handling small components and connectors inside the phone.
• Adhesive strips or glue: Necessary for reattaching the back cover securely after the repair.
• Heat gun or hair dryer: Used to soften the adhesive holding the back cover in place.
• Replacement rear camera module: The new camera module that will replace the damaged one.

Process

1. Prepare Your Workspace

• Find a clean, well-lit workspace: A clean, clutter free workspace is essential for keeping track of small screws and components. Good lighting will help you see what you are doing more clearly.
• Organize your tools and components: Lay out all the tools and components you shall need in an organized manner. This will save you time and prevent you from losing small parts during the repair.

2. Power Off Your Phone

Make sure your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus is completely powered off before starting the repair. This step is crucial for your safety and to prevent any damage to the phone’s internal components.

3. Remove the Back Cover

• Heat the edges of the back cover: Use a heat gun or hair dryer to gently heat the edges of the back cover. This will soften the adhesive that holds the cover in place, making it easier to remove.
• Use a suction cup: Once the adhesive is softened, place a suction cup on the back cover and gently pull to create a small gap between the back cover and the phone.
• Insert a plastic opening tool: Carefully insert a plastic opening tool into the gap created by the suction cup. Work your way around the edges of the back cover, gently prying it open. Be patient and take your time to avoid cracking the back cover.
• Remove the back cover: Once the adhesive is fully released, carefully lift off the back cover and set it aside.

4. Disconnect the Battery

• Remove the screws: Use the Phillips 00 screwdriver to remove the screws securing the battery connector cover.
• Lift the cover: Carefully lift the cover using the plastic opening tool.
• Disconnect the battery connector: Use the plastic opening tool to gently disconnect the battery connector from the motherboard. This step is essential to prevent any electrical damage while working on the phone.

5. Remove the Rear Camera Module

• Locate the rear camera module: Identify the rear camera module inside the phone.
• Remove the screws: Use the Phillips 00 screwdriver to remove the screws securing the camera module in place.
• Disconnect the camera module: Carefully use the tweezers to disconnect the camera module from the motherboard. Be gentle to avoid damaging the connectors.
• Lift the camera module out: Once disconnected, gently lift the camera module out of the phone.

6. Install the New Rear Camera Module

• Place the new camera module: Position the new rear camera module in the same spot as the old one.
• Reconnect the camera module: Carefully reconnect the camera module to the motherboard using the tweezers.
• Secure the camera module: Use the Phillips 00 screwdriver to secure the camera module with the screws.

7. Reconnect the Battery

• Reconnect the battery connector: Reconnect the battery connector to the motherboard.
• Replace the cover: Replace the battery connector cover and secure it with the screws you removed earlier.

8. Reattach the Back Cover

• Apply new adhesive strips or glue: Apply new adhesive strips or a thin layer of glue to the edges of the back cover.
• Align the back cover: Carefully align the back cover with the phone and press it firmly into place.
• Heat the edges: Use the heat gun or hair dryer to gently heat the edges of the back cover, ensuring the adhesive bonds securely.

Tips and Tricks

• Take your time: Rushing through the repair can lead to mistakes and potential damage to your phone. Work slowly and methodically, ensuring each step is completed correctly.
• Keep track of screws: Use a small container or a magnetic mat to keep track of screws and other small components. Losing a screw can make reassembly difficult and may affect the phone’s functionality.
• Use the right tools: Using the correct tools is essential for a successful repair. Improvising with the wrong tools can damage your phone and make the repair more challenging.
• Test the camera before sealing the phone: Before reattaching the back cover, power on the phone and test the new camera to ensure it is working properly. This step can save you from having to reopen the phone if something is not working correctly.
• Refer to online guides or videos: If you are unsure about any step, refer to online guides or instructional videos for additional help. Visual aids can provide clarity and confidence as you work through the repair.

Final Thought!

Replacing the rear-facing cameras on your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus may initially seem like a difficult task, but with the right tools, a clean workspace, and a patient approach, it is entirely manageable. By following the detailed steps outlined in this article, you can effectively replace your damaged camera module and restore your phone to optimal condition.

This DIY repair not only saves you money on professional repair services but also gives you a sense of accomplishment and a deeper understanding of your device. Throughout the process, it is important to remember to work methodically, keep track of all components, and take your time to avoid mistakes. While the thought of repairing your own smartphone might be intimidating at first, the satisfaction of successfully completing the task is well worth the effort. Plus, you shall gain valuable skills and confidence in handling similar repairs in the future.

By approaching the repair with patience and care, you can ensure that your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus is back in top shape, ready to capture all the important moments in your life. So, gather your tools, follow this guide, and take control of your device’s maintenance. With a bit of effort, you shall have your phone’s rear facing cameras replaced and functioning perfectly, without the need for expensive repair services.