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Proximity Sensor Replacement: iPhone 13 Pro & 13 Pro Max

Step-by-Step Restoration Guide

Professional DIY guide to replace the proximity sensor flex cable on iPhone 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max. Fix the 3-minute restart loop and 'Missing sensor: Prx' error.

⚠️ Important Warnings

  • • CRITICAL: Disconnect the battery before touching any internal components to prevent short circuits.
  • • Face ID remains functional after this repair, but Auto-Brightness and True Tone will be disabled.
  • • The iPhone 13 Pro series has complex screw lengths. Use the Magnetic Pad to avoid 'Long Screw Damage'.

Tools Needed

  • Pentalobe Screwdriver (P2)
  • Tri-point Screwdriver (Y0.6)
  • Phillips #000 Screwdriver
  • Suction Cup (Sucker)
  • Plastic Spudger / Sticks
  • Triangle Opening Paddles
  • MeeFix Magnetic Screw Pad (Pro Series)

Parts Needed

  • Proximity Sensor Flex Cable (Pro / Pro Max specific)
  • 2x Front Screen Waterproof Seals

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Power Off & Remove Bottom Screws

Power Off & Remove Bottom Screws

Completely power off your iPhone. Use the Pentalobe P2 screwdriver to remove the two 6.7mm screws next to the charging port. Place them immediately on the designated spots on your Magnetic Pad.

Never skip the Magnetic Pad—these screws are unique and essential for reassembly.

2

Soften the Adhesive

Use a heat gun or hair dryer to warm the edges of the display for about 1-2 minutes. This softens the waterproof seal and makes opening safer.

3

Lift the Display Assembly

Lift the Display Assembly

Attach the suction cup to the bottom edge. Pull up firmly and insert a triangle paddle. Carefully slide the paddle around the edges to cut the adhesive. Open the screen from the right side like a book.

Do not insert the paddle more than 3mm on the right side to avoid tearing the delicate display cables.

4

Disconnect the Battery (Essential Step)

Disconnect the Battery (Essential Step)

Use the Y000 screwdriver to remove the screws securing the battery connector bracket. Use a plastic stick to pop the battery connector out of its socket.

Touching the logic board with power connected can cause permanent motherboard failure.

5

Remove the Logic Board Brackets

Remove the Logic Board Brackets

Unscrew the large L-shaped bracket covering the display and sensor connectors. Organize these screws on your Magnetic Pad carefully—they vary in length by 0.1mm.

6

Disconnect and Remove the Screen

Disconnect and Remove the Screen

Disconnect the display and digitizer cables. The screen is now free. Set the rear housing aside to focus on the sensor assembly attached to the back of the screen.

7

Remove the Top Sensor Assembly

Remove the Top Sensor Assembly

Unscrew the three screws holding the speaker and sensor flex in place. Note that one screw is hidden under the flex. Use a plastic spudger to gently pry the assembly from its housing.

Be extremely gentle around the microphone and flood illuminator; they are glued down.

8

Install the New Flex & Re-seal

Install the New Flex & Re-seal

Place the new proximity sensor flex into the housing. Clean the frame of the phone and apply one of the two included waterproof seals. Reassemble by following these steps in reverse.

If the first seal is misaligned, use the second spare seal included in your kit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose Face ID on my Pro Max?

No. On the iPhone 13 Pro series, the Face ID hardware is separate from the proximity sensor flex. Replacing this part will fix your restart loop without affecting Face ID functionality.

Why did my auto-brightness stop working?

The ambient light sensor on the new flex is not paired with the original logic board. This disables Auto-Brightness and True Tone, which is a standard behavior for all non-original Apple parts.

How do I know which screw goes where?

Your kit includes a MeeFix Magnetic Screw Pad. It features a 1:1 map of the internal screw locations. As long as you place each screw on its corresponding spot during disassembly, you will avoid 'Long Screw Damage'.

Guide Info

Difficulty

Medium

Total Steps

8

Need a Fix Kit?

🇺🇸 US Stock

Complete repair kit with OEM-spec flex, full tool set, and magnetic organizer.

iPhone 13 Pro Kit

Complete repair kit with OEM-spec flex, full tool set, and magnetic organizer.

13 Pro Max Kit

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