How to fix a broken camera glass on iphone 5s

Learn step-by-step instructions on how to replace the shattered camera glass on an iPhone 5s to restore your device's functionality and aesthetics.

Accidents happen, and sometimes your iPhone 5s can end up with a broken camera glass. This can be a frustrating situation, especially if you rely on your phone’s camera for photos and videos. But don’t worry, you don’t have to replace the entire phone or spend a fortune at a repair shop. With a few simple steps, you can fix the broken camera glass on your iPhone 5s yourself.

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The camera glass on your iPhone 5s is a delicate component that can easily crack or shatter if the phone is dropped or bumped. It’s important to address the issue quickly to prevent further damage to the camera lens or sensor. By following the steps outlined below, you can safely and effectively replace the broken camera glass on your iPhone 5s.

Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools and replacement parts, such as a new camera glass cover and a small screwdriver set. You can purchase these items online or at a local electronics store. Once you have everything you need, follow the step-by-step instructions to successfully repair the broken camera glass on your iPhone 5s.

Steps to Repair

Here are the steps to repair the broken camera glass on your iPhone 5s:

  1. Remove the two pentalobe screws located on the bottom of the phone using a pentalobe screwdriver.
  2. Use a suction cup to gently lift the screen assembly away from the body of the phone.
  3. Disconnect the cables that connect the screen assembly to the phone’s body.
  4. Locate the broken camera glass and carefully remove any remaining glass shards.
  5. Place the new camera glass in position and secure it with adhesive if necessary.
  6. Reconnect the cables and carefully reassemble the phone.
  7. Secure the screen assembly back onto the body of the phone and tighten the pentalobe screws.
  8. Test the camera to ensure that it is functioning properly.
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Gather Necessary Tools

Before you start the repair process, make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand. Here is a list of tools you will need:


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  • Replacement camera glass
  • Small Phillips screwdriver
  • Suction cup
  • Plastic opening tool
  • Tweezers
  • Heat gun or hair dryer
  • Cloth or microfiber towel

Having these tools ready will make the process smoother and help you avoid any unnecessary delays or frustrations.

Remove the Old Glass

Before you can replace the broken camera glass on your iPhone 5s, you need to remove the old glass carefully. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Power Off the Device

Make sure your iPhone 5s is powered off before you begin the repair process to avoid any accidents or damage.

Step 2: Heat the Adhesive

Use a hairdryer or heat gun to gently heat the adhesive around the camera glass. Be careful not to overheat the device.

Clean the Camera Area

Before installing the new camera glass, make sure to thoroughly clean the camera area to remove any dust, dirt, or residue that could affect the quality of your photos.

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Steps to clean the camera area:

  1. Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the camera lens and surrounding area.
  2. If there are stubborn dirt or smudges, you can use a small amount of lens cleaning solution on the cloth.
  3. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could scratch the camera lens.

Once the camera area is clean and dry, you can proceed with installing the new camera glass following the manufacturer’s instructions.


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Apply New Glass

Once you have removed the broken glass, it’s time to apply the new glass to your iPhone 5s. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Peel off the protective film from the new glass.
  2. Align the new glass with the camera lens on your iPhone 5s.
  3. Gently press the new glass onto the camera lens area, making sure it is securely in place.
  4. Use a clean cloth to remove any fingerprints or smudges from the new glass.

Once you have successfully applied the new glass, your camera lens should be protected and ready for use.

Secure the Glass

Once you have cleaned the area and applied the adhesive, carefully place the new camera glass over the camera lens opening on your iPhone 5s. Make sure it is aligned properly and press down gently to secure it in place.

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Next, use a clean cloth to wipe away any excess adhesive that may have seeped out around the edges of the glass. Be careful not to press too hard, as this could cause the glass to move out of place.

Let it Set

Allow the adhesive to set according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes a few hours, but it’s best to wait at least 24 hours to ensure the camera glass is securely attached.

Tip: During this time, avoid putting any pressure on the camera glass to prevent it from shifting or coming loose.

Test the Camera

After you have replaced the broken camera glass on your iPhone 5s, it is important to test the camera to ensure it is functioning properly. Follow these steps to test the camera:

1. Open the camera app on your iPhone 5s.
2. Switch between the front and rear cameras to check if both are working.
3. Take a few test photos to see if the images are clear and focused.
4. Record a short video to test the video recording functionality.
5. Check if the camera flash is working properly by taking a photo in low light conditions.

If you notice any issues with the camera after testing, you may need to double-check the installation of the camera glass and ensure it is properly aligned. If problems persist, consider seeking professional help to diagnose and fix the camera issues.

Carmen J. Moore
Carmen J. Moore

Carmen J. Moore is an expert in the field of photography and videography, blending a passion for art with technical expertise. With over a decade of experience in the industry, she is recognized as a sought-after photographer and videographer capable of capturing moments and crafting unique visual narratives.

  1. What kind of adhesive do you recommend using for the new camera glass? Is there a specific type that works best?

  2. I recently followed these steps to fix my iPhone 5s camera glass and it worked like a charm! I used a hairdryer to heat the adhesive, which made it easier to remove the old glass. Just be careful with the heat. I also found that using tweezers helped a lot with placing the new glass accurately. Thanks for the detailed guide!

    • Avatar photo
      Carmen J. Moore July 7, 2026 at 10:18 pm

      Glad to hear it worked out for you! Using tweezers can definitely help with precision. If you have any other tips, feel free to share!

  3. Andrew Robertson August 14, 2026 at 6:09 pm

    Has anyone compared this method to getting it done at a repair shop? Is there a significant difference in quality?

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