Now Reading: Samsung Galaxy A21s Camera Replacement Guide
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Samsung Galaxy A21s Camera Replacement Guide
Camera problems such as blurry photos, focus failure, or a completely black screen can seriously affect daily smartphone use. If your camera app crashes or image quality has suddenly reduced, replacing the camera module can restore full functionality. This detailed repair guide explains how to safely replace the front selfie camera or rear camera modules on the Samsung Galaxy A21s using professional repair techniques.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced DIY technician, follow each step carefully to avoid damaging flex cables, connectors, or the motherboard.
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Repair Difficulty ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Moderate)
Estimated Repair Time: 60 — 75 Minutes
Device Type: Smartphone
Repair Type: Front Camera & Rear Camera Module Replacement
Reasons for Camera Replacement
You may need to replace the camera modules if you experience:
- Camera showing black screen
- Blurry or unfocused photos
- Camera app crashing or freezing
- Dust or moisture inside camera lens
- Rear camera not detecting properly
- Selfie camera not working during video calls
- Focus or stabilization problems
Replacing faulty camera modules restores image clarity and proper autofocus performance.
Before You Begin
Compatibility and Model Numbers
- Samsung Galaxy A21s 5G
This repair guide based on Samsung Galaxy A21s Model.
Model Numbers | SM-A217F, SM-A217F/DS, SM-A217F/DSN, SM-A217M, SM-A217M/DS, SM-A217N
Tools Required
- Mobile phone heating pad or hairdryer/heat gun
- Plastic pry tool / card pry
- Suction cups
- Phillips #00/#000 screwdrivers
- Tweezers (for connectors)
- B7000 glue or double-sided adhesive (for back cover)
- Rubber bands or bonding clips to secure the back cover
Using proper tools reduces the risk of damaging the phone.
How to Find Tools and Parts
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- Compatible Parts –
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Step-by-Step Samsung Galaxy A21s Camera Replacement
Step 1 — Remove SIM Tray
Power off the phone completely.
Remove the SIM tray using a SIM ejector tool before opening the device.
Step 2 — Heat the Back Cover
The rear cover is secured with adhesive.
Place the back cover side on a heating pad and select the mobile phone heating option.
Alternatively, heat gently around the edges using a hair dryer or heat gun until adhesive softens.
Avoid overheating the device.
Step 3 — Remove the Back Cover
Use a suction cup to create a gap between the frame and rear cover.
Insert a plastic pry card and slide around the edges to cut adhesive.
⚠️ The fingerprint sensor cable connects the back cover to the motherboard.
Disconnect the fingerprint connector carefully before removing the back cover completely.
Step 4 — Remove Mid Frame
Remove all 15 Phillips screws securing the plastic mid frame.
Insert a plastic pry tool around the edges and gently release plastic clips.
Lift and remove the mid frame.
Step 5 — Disconnect Battery
Disconnect the battery connector to prevent accidental electrical damage during repair.
Step 6 — Remove Logic Board
Undo the screw securing the logic board.
Disconnect:
- Main flex ribbon cable
- Antenna connector.
Carefully lift and remove the logic board from the device.
Step 7 — Remove Camera Modules
Locate camera connectors on the logic board.
Disconnect:
- Front selfie camera (top right area)
- Front depth camera module
- Rear triple camera assembly.
Apply gentle pressure from the front side if needed to release the rear camera module.
Remove only the faulty camera unit that requires replacement.
Step 8 — Install New Camera Module
Place the replacement front or rear camera onto the logic board.
Reconnect all camera flex connectors securely.
Ensure connectors align properly before pressing down.
Step 9 — Reinstall Logic Board
Place the logic board back into the device body.
Reconnect:
- Antenna cable
- Main ribbon flex cable
- Battery connector.
Secure the motherboard screw.
Step 10 — Reinstall Mid Frame
Position the mid frame onto the body.
Check that all clips snap securely into place.
Install all fifteen screws.
Step 11 — Reinstall Fingerprint Sensor
Apply slight heat to soften adhesive holding the fingerprint sensor on the back cover.
Push gently to release the flex.
Reconnect the fingerprint flex cable to the logic board.
Step 12 — Reattach Back Cover
Check whether adhesive remains strong.
If necessary:
- Apply B7000 glue, or
- Install new double-sided adhesive.
Align and press the back cover firmly onto the body.
Step 13 — Secure Adhesive
Use bonding clips or rubber bands to apply pressure while adhesive cures.
Leave secured for some time before powering on the device.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Do I need to replace all rear cameras together?
No. You can replace only the faulty camera module if others are working properly.
Q2. Will camera replacement erase my data?
No. This repair does not affect stored files or applications.
Q3. Why is my camera blurry even after cleaning the lens?
Internal sensor damage or autofocus failure usually requires camera replacement.
Q4. Can this repair fix camera shaking or focus issues?
Yes. Replacing the module usually restores autofocus and stabilization.
Q5. Should I test the camera before sealing the phone?
Yes. Always power on and test cameras before sealing the back cover.
Troubleshooting (Q&A)
Q1. Camera not detected after replacement?
Reconnect camera flex connectors and ensure they are properly aligned.
Q2. Phone not powering on?
Check battery connector seating and motherboard screw installation.
Q3. Fingerprint sensor not working?
Reconnect the fingerprint flex cable securely.
Q4. Dust visible inside camera lens?
Remove module and clean surrounding area before reinstalling.
Q5. Rear camera shaking or not focusing?
Verify camera module compatibility and connector alignment.
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