Google Nexus 5 vibration motor repair guide

The vibration motor isn’t working.

In this repair guide, we show you how to replace your LG Google Nexus 5’s defective vibration motor on your own. You need this repair if your phone doesn’t vibrate or only barely vibrates.

Required tools

Menda ESD Spudger

Menda ESD Spudger

You need a flat plastic prying tool to disconnect the various plugs and connectors.
from €26.38 on Amazon
Pick Set

Pick Set

You need a flat but stable tool such as a pick to pry out parts that are glued in place.
from €14.99 on Amazon
iDoc Tool Kit, 21 pieces

iDoc Tool Kit, 21 pieces

Do you need to repair your smartphone? This kit includes all the tools you need for professional-quality repairs, from the ESD spudger and suction cup, to screwdrivers and tweezers, as well as the iDoc magnetic pad that holds your screws and small parts in place while you work. Not sure what goes where? Don’t worry – our detailed repair guides tell you what tool to use for each step.
from €29.99 on Amazon

Required replacement part

Google Nexus 5 Vibration Motor

Google Nexus 5 Vibration Motor

on Amazon

Show all replacement parts for the Google Nexus 5

Getting started with the repair of your Google Nexus 5

If you get stuck or have questions, you can post a comment. We’d be happy to help.

4 steps

Removing the back cover
Insert the hard plastic pick into the gap next to the volume button. You have to disconnect the 18 retaining clips on the outside under the back cover. Move the pick once around the entire smartphone. Work your way from the volume button past the headphone output to the SIM card tray. The back cover is easier to detach at that point. You have to use a little more force at some spots.

Then you can take off the back cover.
Removing the vibration motor
Insert the flat end of the spudger below the vibration motor, which is glued to the inside of the back cover.

Carefully lift it out.

Installing the vibration motor
Put the new vibration motor in the appropriate position. Make sure it’s stuck on securely.
Attaching the back cover
It’s very easy to put the back cover back on. Put it on in the correct position and press it on all the way around until it’s completely clicked into place.