The Fairphone 3(+) has a modular architecture. Due to the modular architecture, you can troubleshoot and repair the device yourself by replacing the modules. It is even possible to upgrade some modules, such as the Fairphone 3 Camera Module to the Fairphone 3+ Camera Module.

You must use a Phillips #00 screwdriver to access all modules of the Fairphone 3(+). The screws of the Fairphone 3(+) are also used for most (sun)glasses, so you might already have this size of crosshead screwdriver at home. If not, we deliver the device with a small screwdriver in the package so you can replace a Fairphone 3(+) module at any time.

In case your repair might be covered by the manufacturing warranty, contact our Customer Support before you order your modules yourself. The repairability of our devices is aimed at repairs that are not covered by the manufacturing warranty, for example due to user damage. To claim manufacturing warranty, you will have to contact us first.

Table of contents

• Prepare
• How do I open up the Fairphone 3(+)?
• How do I replace the display on Fairphone 3(+)?
• How do I replace the top module on Fairphone 3(+)?
• How do I replace the camera module on Fairphone 3(+)?
• How do I replace the bottom module on Fairphone 3(+)?
• How do I replace the speaker module on Fairphone 3(+)?
• Core Module: no self-repair

Prepare

We made the replacement of the modules as easy as possible. However, as you still handle vulnerable electronics, there are some preparations we recommend.

• Do not open your device when not needed. When in doubt, consult the troubleshooter to find out if your issue can be solved in another way.
• Update your device. When installing an upgraded module (like a Fairphone 3(+) Camera+ or a Fairphone 3 Top+ Module), update your device to the latest software version first. Otherwise, the software can not 'read' the new module.
• Use a flat and clean working surface.
• Get your Phillips #0 screwdriver ready.
• Do not use metal objects to disconnect the ribbon cable connectors (FPC). You can use a fingernail or a plastic object such as a spudger, credit card or a guitar pick.
• Before you actually start, read the following instructions and the iFixit guides.

How do I open up the Fairphone 3(+)?

To access the modules, you must follow a specific order.

1. You have to open up the phone first.
2. Then you remove the Display Module so you have access to the other modules.
3. Important: you must remove the Bottom Module before you can remove the Speaker Module.

To open up the Fairphone 3(+):

1.  
   1.  
      1. Turn your phone off.
      2. Take the Protective Bumper and Battery Cover off. Use your fingernail to lift the Battery Cover from the rim of the frame.
      3. Take the battery out. Use your fingernail at the white triangle indicator to lift it up.
      4. Remove the SIM card(s) and the SD card.
      5. To access the modules, unscrew the 13 screws that hold the frame and the Display Module together - see steps in the next section.

How do I replace the display on Fairphone 3(+)?

The Fairphone 3(+) Display module consists of a 5.65 inch Full-HD display with a 18:9 ratio. The Gorilla Glass 5 provides increased scratch resistance.

After you have opened the Fairphone 3(+), you must remove the Display Module to access the other modules. In the video tutorial below, we show you how to separate and remount the Display Module from the phone.

To separate the Display Module from the phone:

1. Remove the 13 screws that hold the Display Module in place.
2. Place your fingers on the right side of the frame, inside the battery compartment.
3. Push the display out of the frame.
4. You removed the Display Module.
5. The other modules are now accessible.

To remount the Display Module on the phone:

1. Start at the top of the frame.
2. Click it into place one by one.
3. Fasten the 13 screws that hold the Display Module in place.
4. Place the battery back in, top first.
5. Click the Battery Cover on the frame.
6. Put the Protective Bumper on.
7. Turn the phone on.
8. You now remounted the Display Module and have access to the other modules.

How do I replace the top module on Fairphone 3(+)?

The Fairphone 3(+) Top module contains the Selfie camera (front camera), the receiver, the earphone jack, the secondary microphone (to filter out ambient noises), proximity sensor (to detect of an ear or head is nearby) and the brightness sensor.

In our video tutorial below, we show you how to separate and remount the Top Module from the phone.

To remove the Top Module:

1. Lift the ribbon cable up from the top of the arrow to detach it. Preferably with a fingernail or a plastic spudger or plectrum.
2. Remove the 2 screws holding the Top Module in place.
3. Push the frame slightly on the back of the Top Module to remove it.
4. You now removed the Top Module.

To remount the Top Module, proceed in reverse order:

1. Put the Top Module back in its place.
2. Fasten the 2 screws holding the Top Module in place.
3. Gently reconnect the ribbon cable with your finger until you feel it click.
4. Take the blue transparent foil off the camera lens.
5. You have now remounted the Top Module.

How do I replace the camera module on Fairphone 3(+)?

The Fairphone 3(+) Camera module contains the main - rear - camera, the light sensor and the flash.

To remove the Camera Module:

1. Lift the ribbon cable up from the top of the arrow to detach it. Preferably with a fingernail or a plastic spudger or plectrum.
2. Remove the 2 screws holding the Camera Module in place.
3. Push the frame slightly on the back of the Camera Module to remove it.
4. You now removed the Camera Module.

To remount the Camera Module, proceed in reverse order:

1. Put the Camera Module back in its place.
2. Fasten the 2 screws holding the Camera Module in place.
3. Gently reconnect the ribbon cable with your finger until you feel it click.
4. Take the blue transparent foil off the camera lens.
5. You now remounted the Camera Module.

How do I replace the bottom module on Fairphone 3(+)?

The Fairphone 3(+) Bottom module contains the vibration motor, USB-C connector and primary microphone of your Fairphone 3(+).

To remove the Bottom Module:

1. Lift the ribbon cable up from the top of the arrow to detach it. Preferably with a fingernail or a plastic spudger or plectrum.
2. Remove the 4 screws holding the Bottom Module in place.
3. Take the Bottom Module out of the frame.
4. You now removed the Bottom Module.

To remount the Bottom Module, proceed in reverse order:

1. Put the Bottom Module back in its place.
2. Fasten the 4 screws holding the Bottom Module in place.
3. Gently reconnect the ribbon cable with your finger until you feel it click.
4. You now remounted the Bottom Module.

How do I replace the speaker module on Fairphone 3(+)?

The Fairphone 3(+) Speaker module holds the loudspeaker that is used for calls, videos etcetera.

To remove the Speaker Module:

1. Remove the Bottom Module first!
2. Remove the (1) single screw holding the Speaker Module in place.
3. Take the Speaker Module out of the frame.
4. You now removed the Speaker Module.

To remount the Speaker Module, proceed in reverse order:

1. Put the Speaker Module back in its place.
2. Fasten the 1 screw holding the Speaker Module in place.
3. You remounted the Bottom Module. You can now put the Speaker Module back in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I buy a replacement Core Module?

No, the Core Module is not available for individual purchase.

The Core Module is the "brain" of your Fairphone, containing the motherboard, CPU, and SIM slots. We do not sell this as a standalone spare part for three key reasons:

• Legal & Security: The Core Module houses your device’s unique identity (IMEI numbers). Selling these separately creates legal complexities regarding device registration and security.

• Technical Fragility: This module contains the most delicate components. Replacing it requires a controlled, anti-static environment to prevent permanent damage.

• Quality Assurance: Core Module issues are complex. We handle these repairs at our authorized service centers to guarantee the long-term reliability of your device.

Is your phone not powering on or malfunctioning? If you suspect a fault with your Core Module, please do not attempt a manual repair. Instead, use our official diagnostic tool to find the best path forward:

1. Diagnose: Visit our Repair & Troubleshooting Portal.

2. Test: Follow the step-by-step guide to rule out issues with your battery, display, or software.

3. Resolve: If the problem is confirmed as a Core Module fault, the portal will provide instructions on how to send your device to our specialized repair center for a professional replacement.

Q: Can I use spare parts from a different Fairphone model in my Fairphone 3?

For our smartphone range, spare parts are not interchangeable between different models (e.g., you cannot use The Fairphone (Gen. 6) parts in a Fairphone 3).

While we advocate for modularity, each phone generation requires specific dimensions, voltage ranges, and connector types (BTB architecture) to function safely. Attempting to install a module from a different phone model can result in:

• Physical Damage: Connectors may look similar but have different pin configurations.

• System Instability: The software (firmware) is tuned specifically for the hardware in that model.

• Safety Risks: Battery and power modules have different thermal and voltage specifications.

If after reading the article you need more help, contact our Customer Support.