If the loud speaker in your iPhone 5c is not working, producing distorted sound, or cutting in and out, it is more than likely blown. If you’re out of warranty, a DIY iPhone repair for this particular problem is relatively simple. It’ll take you less than 45 minutes once you have the parts in your hands and will cost a fraction of the price of a new iPhone. And if you need help, that’s what we’re here for. We’ll show you where to get the parts and tools you need, and how to replace a blown loud speaker all on your own!
What you need to replace an iPhone 5c loud speaker
You’ll need some tools and parts in order to repair your iPhone 5c. If you’re in the United States or Canada, we highly recommend checking out eTech Parts as we’ve had lots of good experiences with them and know their customer service is out of this world. All the links below will route you to the direct item you need on eTech’s site.
- Replacement loud speaker – Buy now
- Suction cup – Buy now
- 5-point security screwdriver – Buy now
- Standard #000 Phillips screwdriver – Buy now
- Spudger tool – Buy now
- Razor blade – Buy Now
- iSesamo Opening tool (not necessary but awesome for prying up cables and getting under adhesive) – Buy Now
1. Power off your iPhone 5c
Before performing any repair on any iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch you should always remember to power it off. Simply hold down on the Power button until you see Slide to Power off. One you’re sure your iPhone is turned off, proceed to the next section.
2. Remove the two security screws on both sides of the dock connector
There are two security screws that secure the screen to the frame and they sit on each side of the dock connector. Use your 5-point security screwdriver to remove them. They are both the same size so it’s okay if you mix them up.
3. Remove the display assembly
4. Disconnect the battery
We don’t need to completely remove the battery for this repair but it’s always a good idea to disconnect the battery before removing and replacing internal components in order to prevent a short from occurring.
5. Replace the blown loud speaker
Some of the images below show the battery and logic board completely removed. You do not need to remove these components for this particular repair. Just simply follow the steps below.
6. Re-connect the battery
7. Re-connect the display assembly
8. Replace the security screws on each side of the dock connector
Once you are confident that the display is seated correctly again, use your security screwdriver in order to replace the two screws on either side of the dock connector.
9. Test the new loud speaker
Once you’ve turned your iPhone 5c back on, it’s time to test the speaker enclosure. Follow these steps to do so:
- Play some music and make sure it sounds the way it should
- Place a call and test toggling between the earpiece and speakerphone
- Have someone call you to ensure your iPhone 5c rings correctly
- Test system sounds in the Settings app
- Plug in some headphones and make sure sound transfers between the two correctly
If all of the above checked out okay, you’re loud speaker is good to go again!
You’ll also want to check out:
- How to replace your broken iPhone screen: The ultimate guide
- How to replace your iPhone battery: The ultimate guide
- All DIY repairs