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How to Fix the Left and Right Headband Ribbon Jack on the Apple AirPods Max 1st and 2nd Gen (DIY Repair Guide)
Do your Apple AirPods Max 1st and 2nd Gen (model numbers: A2096 and A3184) have no sound or produce intermittent audio? Do the headphones refuse to power on or enter pairing mode, or reset during charging but never power on? If you’re facing any of these issues, it may be time to replace the headband ribbon jack. A failing Bluetooth board or power board can also cause these issues. Always check the headband jacks first. Even slight wear or looseness can cause connection loss.
In this DIY repair guide, we show you how to fix the left and right headband ribbon jacks on the Apple AirPods Max (1st and 2nd Gen) using new OEM spares without needing technical skills or expertise. You will find all the tools required for this repair and original replacement parts below.
Want to get your headphones repaired by a professional? Send us your Apple AirPods Max (1st and 2nd Gen), and our repair ninjas will restore them to peak working condition. Follow the link, select the issues you’re experiencing, click Continue, enter your email ID, and click Get My Estimate to view the repair cost instantly.
Repair Difficulty
Moderate / Requires 20-35 minutes to complete.
This repair involves handling delicate wires, metal hinges, and screws. You don’t need prior experience or technical skills to complete this repair yourself. With the right tools, patience, and attention to detail, you can replace the Apple AirPods Max headband ribbon jack yourself.
Replacement Parts You’ll Need
Restore your Apple AirPods Max’s audio quality using original replacement parts. Select the OEM spares from the drop-down menu below and bring your device back to peak working condition.
- Apple AirPods Max 1st and 2nd Generation Headband Jack Repair - Kit
Get an OEM replacement headband ribbon jack for your Apple AirPods Max (1st and 2nd Gen) today. Click the link to visit our store, then scroll down to the Customers Also Add section to purchase the original replacement part and the tools you’ll need for this repair at a discount.
Tools You’ll Need
Before starting the Apple AirPods Max headband ribbon jack replacement, gather the following tools. Using the correct instruments will help you complete the repair successfully. We used the following tools and recommend them for a safe, professional-quality DIY fix at home.
Not ready to invest in tools yet? Find your device in our repair catalog, select the issues it’s experiencing, and send it to us. Our repair ninjas will restore your device to peak working condition.
Step-by-Step DIY Guide to Replacing the Left and Right Headband Ribbon Jacks on the Apple AirPods Max (1st and 2nd Gen) at Home
In this detailed DIY repair guide, we show you how to replace the worn-out headband ribbon jack on the Apple AirPods Max (1st and 2nd Gen) yourself. Follow each step carefully and use the accompanying images as a visual guide to complete the repair with confidence.
Step 1: Extract the Damaged Ribbon from the Headband Jack
1.1. Unfasten the 2 small silver screws from the headband jack with a T2 Torx screwdriver and place them carefully in the slots provided on the anti-skid rubber work mat.

1.2. Remove the top plate to reveal 2 more small screws. Unfasten them with the T2 Torx screwdriver and store them separately.

1.3. Peel the wire from the jack.

Step 2: Install New Ribbon
2.1. Take the new ribbon and align the pinhole with that on the jack. Press the two parts together with your fingers or a flathead screwdriver.


2.2. Align the small notch on the jack with that on the ribbon and stick them together.


2.3. Bend the ribbon and tuck it into the groove on the jack.

2.4. Peel the cover off the end of the adhesive tape and stick the jack on it.

Step 3: Assemble the Headband Ribbon Jack
3.1. Place the jack over the assembly and fasten the 2 small screws with a T2 Torx screwdriver. Install the jack in the correct orientation.

3.2. Bend the top part of the assembly over the ribbon.

3.3. Place the small metal cover over the ribbon so that it’s hidden completely.

3.4. Fasten the 2 screws to secure the assembly.

Congratulations! Your Apple AirPods Max (1st and 2nd Gen) Headband Ribbon Jack is Ready for Installation
You have successfully replaced the damaged headband ribbon jack on the Apple AirPods Max (1st and 2nd Gen). Install the assembly in your headphones to enjoy crisp audio. Test the fitment, audio quality, button response, and charging functionality to ensure the headphones are working properly.

If you found this guide helpful and would like to try your hand at DIY gadget repair, visit our store for essential tools and spare parts. You can also check out our at-home DIY headphone repair guides for other popular headphone brands, including Apple, Beats, Bose, and Sony.
Have questions or suggestions about this repair? Text a repair ninja or email us, and we’ll reply shortly.
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