How to Open a 3rd Generation iPod Nano

If you have a warranty on your iPod, you can easily send it out for repair. But if you've had your iPod for some time, your warranty has probably expired. While third-generation iPod Nanos are durable and well made electronic devices, at some point they may need repair. If your warranty has expired, you will save money by doing the repairs yourself. To do that, you will need to carefully open your iPod Nano to get to the hardware. Whether you need to replace your battery, hard drive or screen, follow these steps to safely open your iPod Nano third generation.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• IPod Nano
• Small plastic wedge
• Miniature flathead screwdriver

1. Run a fingernail along the groove on the side of your third-generation iPod Nano. When you feel an area along the groove that may be slightly more open than the rest of the groove, insert the thin wedge here.

2. Gently and slowly pry the wedge back and forth. If the wedge you are using is made of metal or another hard compound, be extra careful, as slipping with the wedge can scratch your iPod and screen.

3. Lay the iPod face down once you have loosened the front from the back. Carefully lift up on the back of the iPod and flip it over to open the iPod.

4. Lift up on the hard drive and disconnect it. The hard drive is connected by a small ribbon and clip. Gently lift up on the clip, pull the hard drive up and lay it aside.

5. Remove the battery by taking the flat head screwdriver and gently lifting up on the clip that holds the battery ribbon in place. Lay the battery aside. You now have access to the inside of your iPod Nano.

6. Carefully put your iPod back together when you have finished your repair project, and make sure the front and back snap securely together.

Tips & Warnings

• Never open the iPod Nano third generation unless absolutely necessary, as this can put extra wear on the iPod itself.
• Opening your iPod Nano third generation yourself will automatically void any warranty you may have on it.

Resources

• Resource for 3rd Generation iPod Nano replacement parts as well as instructional video.