IPad Pro 2021 12.9 Screen Replacement Guide

Nov 3, 2025 by Team 45 views

Hey guys! Is your iPad Pro 2021 (12.9-inch) screen cracked, shattered, or just not displaying properly? Don't worry, you're not alone! Accidents happen, and sometimes those beautiful screens meet an untimely demise. But before you rush out to buy a new iPad or spend a fortune on professional repairs, consider tackling the screen replacement yourself. It might sound daunting, but with the right tools, a steady hand, and this comprehensive guide, you can bring your beloved iPad back to life. This guide will walk you through each step of replacing the screen on your iPad Pro 2021 (12.9-inch) so you can get back to enjoying its stunning display.

What You'll Need

Before we dive in, let's gather all the necessary tools and parts. Having everything prepared beforehand will make the process smoother and less stressful. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:

Replacement Screen: This is the most crucial part. Make sure you purchase a high-quality replacement screen specifically designed for the iPad Pro 2021 (12.9-inch). There are various vendors online, so read reviews and choose a reputable supplier. Consider whether you want an original Apple screen (more expensive but likely higher quality) or a third-party option (more affordable but potentially with slight differences in color or touch sensitivity).
Heat Gun or Hair Dryer: You'll need heat to soften the adhesive that holds the screen in place. A heat gun is more precise, but a hair dryer can work in a pinch. Be careful not to overheat the device, as this can damage internal components.
iOpener or Heating Pad: An iOpener is a specialized microwaveable bag designed to evenly distribute heat for electronics repair. A heating pad can also be used, but monitor the temperature carefully.
Plastic Opening Tools: These are essential for prying the screen open without scratching or damaging the frame. Avoid using metal tools, as they can easily cause cosmetic damage.
Suction Cup: A small suction cup will help you lift the screen after you've loosened the adhesive. Place it near the edge of the screen and gently pull to create a small gap.
Screwdrivers: You'll need a few different screwdrivers, including a Phillips head and potentially a tri-point screwdriver, depending on the specific screws used in your iPad. Make sure you have the correct sizes to avoid stripping the screws.
Spudger: A spudger is a pointed tool used for disconnecting cables and other delicate tasks. It's made of non-conductive material to prevent short circuits.
Tweezers: Tweezers are helpful for manipulating small parts and cables.
Isopropyl Alcohol (90% or higher): This will help dissolve the adhesive residue. Apply it carefully with a cotton swab or lint-free cloth.
Adhesive Strips: You'll need new adhesive strips to reattach the screen securely. These are pre-cut strips that fit around the perimeter of the iPad.
Microfiber Cloth: Use this to clean the screen and remove any fingerprints or dust.
Work Mat: A clean, anti-static work mat will help you keep your workspace organized and protect the iPad from static electricity.

Having all these tools at your disposal will ensure a smooth and successful screen replacement. Now, let's move on to the step-by-step guide.

Step-by-Step Screen Replacement Guide

Okay, let's get down to business! Follow these steps carefully, and you'll have your iPad Pro 2021 (12.9-inch) looking as good as new in no time. Remember to work in a well-lit area and take your time – rushing can lead to mistakes.

Power Off Your iPad: This is the most important first step! Before you do anything else, make sure your iPad is completely powered off. This will prevent any accidental short circuits or damage during the repair process.
Apply Heat: Use your heat gun or hair dryer to gently heat the edges of the iPad screen. Focus on the areas where the adhesive is located – the top, bottom, and sides. Move the heat source slowly and evenly to avoid overheating. The goal is to soften the adhesive, not to melt anything. Be patient and check the screen's temperature frequently to avoid damage. Overheating can damage the LCD or other internal components. Use an iOpener or heating pad for more even heat distribution, if available. Remember, patience is key here.
Create a Gap: Once the adhesive is softened, use the suction cup to create a small gap between the screen and the frame. Place the suction cup near the bottom edge of the iPad, close to the home button (if it had one). Gently pull up on the suction cup while holding the iPad firmly. This will create a small opening that you can insert a plastic opening tool into.
Insert Opening Tool: Carefully insert a plastic opening tool into the gap you created. Work your way around the edges of the screen, gently prying it up as you go. Be careful not to insert the tool too far, as you could damage internal components. The adhesive can be stubborn, so you may need to apply more heat as you go. Use multiple opening tools to keep the gap open as you work around the perimeter. Remember to be gentle and patient. Forcing the screen can cause it to crack.
Disconnect the Display Cables: Once you've separated the screen from the frame, be careful not to pull it away completely. There are several display cables connecting the screen to the logic board. These cables are fragile, so you need to disconnect them carefully. Locate the metal shield covering the cable connectors. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the shield in place. Then, use a spudger to gently pry up the connectors. Be sure to disconnect all the cables before removing the screen completely. Take your time and avoid pulling on the cables, as this can damage them or the connectors on the logic board.
Remove the Old Screen: With the display cables disconnected, you can now remove the old screen completely. Set it aside carefully, as you may need to transfer some components to the new screen.
Clean the Frame: Before installing the new screen, it's important to clean the frame thoroughly. Remove any old adhesive residue using isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth. Make sure the frame is clean and smooth so the new screen will adhere properly. This step is crucial for ensuring a secure and long-lasting bond.
Transfer Components (If Necessary): Some replacement screens may not come with certain components, such as the front-facing camera bracket or the ambient light sensor. If this is the case, you'll need to carefully transfer these components from the old screen to the new one. Use a heat gun to soften the adhesive holding the components in place, and then use a spudger to gently pry them off. Be very careful not to damage the components during this process. Once you've transferred all the necessary components, you're ready to install the new screen.
Connect the Display Cables: Carefully connect the display cables to the logic board. Make sure the connectors are aligned properly and press them down gently until they click into place. Replace the metal shield over the connectors and secure it with the screws. Double-check that all the cables are connected securely before proceeding.
Test the New Screen: Before you seal the iPad back up, it's a good idea to test the new screen. Power on the iPad and check for any display issues, such as dead pixels, discoloration, or touch sensitivity problems. If everything looks good, you can proceed to the next step. If you notice any issues, double-check the cable connections and make sure the screen is properly seated.
Apply New Adhesive: Apply new adhesive strips around the perimeter of the iPad frame. Make sure the adhesive is properly aligned and press it down firmly to ensure a good bond. Remove the protective film from the adhesive strips.
Attach the New Screen: Carefully align the new screen with the frame and press it down firmly. Make sure the screen is seated properly and that there are no gaps. Apply pressure around the edges of the screen to ensure a good bond. You can use clamps or rubber bands to hold the screen in place while the adhesive sets.
Reassemble and Test: Once the adhesive has set, remove the clamps or rubber bands. Reassemble any remaining components, such as the SIM card tray. Power on the iPad and test the new screen again to make sure everything is working properly. Check the touch sensitivity, display brightness, and other functions. If everything is working as expected, congratulations! You've successfully replaced the screen on your iPad Pro 2021 (12.9-inch).

Tips and Tricks

Work in a Clean Environment: A clean and organized workspace is essential for any electronics repair. This will help you avoid losing small parts and prevent dust from getting inside the iPad.
Take Photos: Before you start disassembling the iPad, take photos of each step. This will help you remember how everything goes back together.
Organize Screws: Keep track of all the screws you remove and label them so you know where they go. A magnetic parts tray can be helpful for this.
Be Patient: Don't rush the repair process. Take your time and be careful. If you get stuck, don't be afraid to consult online resources or seek professional help.
Watch Videos: There are many helpful videos online that demonstrate the iPad Pro 2021 (12.9-inch) screen replacement process. Watching these videos can give you a better understanding of what to expect and help you avoid common mistakes.

Conclusion

Replacing the screen on your iPad Pro 2021 (12.9-inch) might seem intimidating, but with the right tools, patience, and this guide, you can definitely do it! Not only will you save money, but you'll also gain a sense of accomplishment. Just remember to take your time, be careful, and follow the steps closely. Good luck, and happy repairing! If you ever get stuck or feel uncomfortable with any part of the process, don't hesitate to seek professional help. There are plenty of reputable repair shops that can handle the job for you. You got this!