How to Replace a Cracked Rear Camera Lens on iPhone 12 and iPhone 13
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A cracked camera lens is one of the quickest repairs at the counter. The glass over the camera breaks, photos go hazy or show a flare, but the camera module underneath is usually fine. Replacing only the lens glass is cheap, fast, and does not need the phone opened. This guide covers the iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 13 and 13 mini.
Time needed: 15 to 25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to moderate (the risk is glass shards and dust getting into the camera)
Is it just the lens?
Before you start, check:
- Only the outer glass is cracked. Take a test photo: if the image is sharp when you ignore the crack, the module is likely fine.
- No glass has fallen inside. If shards are inside the camera or the image is blurred or dark even with clean glass, the module itself may be damaged and needs replacing.
- The flash and the other lenses look normal.
Not sure which model you have? See our guide on how to find your iPhone model number.
Which lens kit fits which iPhone?
| iPhone | Lens kit |
|---|---|
| iPhone 13 and 13 mini | Rear camera lens with adhesive tape, 2 pcs |
| iPhone 12 and 12 mini | Rear camera lens with adhesive tape, 2 pcs |
| iPhone 12 Pro | Rear camera lens with adhesive tape, 3 pcs |
Tools you will need
- Heat mat, hair dryer or heat gun on a low setting
- Thin plastic opening pick and plastic spudger
- Tweezers
- Clear tape (to lift glass shards)
- Isopropyl alcohol, lint-free swabs and a microfibre cloth
- Replacement lens kit with adhesive tape
- Safety glasses, because broken lens glass is sharp
Step-by-step replacement
1. Power off and stabilise the cracked glass
Turn the phone off. Cover the cracked lens with a small piece of clear tape so the shards stay together while you work.
2. Warm the camera area
Gently warm the camera area for 30 to 60 seconds. Keep the heat low and brief. The camera module has delicate parts and too much heat can damage it.
3. Lift the old lens
Slide a thin plastic pick under the edge of the lens ring and work it free slowly. Do not use metal tools near the camera, because the module contains sensitive magnets and parts.
4. Remove all glass and adhesive
Lift away any remaining pieces with tweezers and clear tape. Clean the ring with isopropyl alcohol and a swab until the surface is clear of old adhesive and dust. Do not let shards or dust fall into the camera opening.
5. Fit the new lens
Peel the backing from the new lens adhesive and place it on the ring, lining up carefully. Press down evenly with a clean cloth, taking care not to touch the glass surface with your fingers.
6. Clean and test
Wipe the new lens with a microfibre cloth. Open the camera and test every lens: wide, ultra-wide (and telephoto on the 12 Pro), plus the flash. Take a photo in bright light and check for smudges, dust or blur.
Common mistakes that cause comebacks
| Problem | Likely cause | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| Dust or specks visible in photos | Dust fell in when the old lens was removed | Work in a clean area and clean the ring before fitting |
| Blurry photos | Glass shards inside, or damaged module | Check the module before fitting a new lens |
| Lens lifts or shows a gap | Old adhesive left, or not pressed evenly | Clean the ring fully and press evenly |
| Hazy or flare in photos | Fingerprints or adhesive residue on the new lens | Wipe with a microfibre cloth before finishing |
| Camera not focusing | Module damaged by heat or pressure | Use low heat and plastic tools only |
Things to tell the customer
- Only the lens glass is replaced, not the camera module. If the module was damaged, quality may still be affected.
- Water resistance: a repaired phone is not guaranteed to keep its original water resistance.
- Give it a day: the adhesive sets over several hours, so avoid pressing on the camera area.
Where to buy
We stock lens kits for the iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 13 and 13 mini for wholesale and repair shop customers. See our Brisbane mobile phone screen supplier page or order from the catalogue above.
Parts are available for pickup in store or delivery across Australia.
FAQ
Can I replace just the camera lens glass?
Yes, on these models the lens glass is a separate part and can be replaced without opening the phone.
How long does the repair take?
About 15 to 25 minutes.
Will a cracked lens damage the camera?
Not necessarily, but glass shards and dust can get into the module over time, so it is best to repair it promptly.
How do I know if the camera module is damaged?
If photos are blurry, dark, or have spots even with a clean lens, the module may need replacing.
