How to Fix a Stuck or Worn-Out Side Button Pusher on the Garmin Fenix 6 Smartwatch (DIY Repair Guide)

Are the buttons on your Garmin Fenix 6 becoming difficult to press? Are one or more buttons stuck or jammed? In some cases, dirt, moisture, corrosion, or normal wear can cause the button mechanism to deteriorate over time. While a thorough cleaning may resolve issues caused by debris buildup, replacing the button pusher is often the only solution when it is physically damaged or worn out.

In this DIY repair guide, we show you how to clean gunk buildup around the button assembly and replace the damaged side button pusher on the Garmin Fenix 6 using OEM spare parts. You will find all the tools needed for this repair, along with OEM replacement parts, below.

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Repair Difficulty

Moderate / Requires 20-30 minutes to complete.

This repair involves handling delicate internal components, including small screws of different sizes, ribbon cables, a battery, power boards, and connector ports. You don’t need technical skills or prior experience to complete the repair. With the right tools, a bit of patience, and attention to detail, you can replace the side buttons on the Garmin Fenix 6 yourself.

Replacement Parts You’ll Need

Restore the form and functionality of your Garmin Fenix 6 with original replacement parts. Select the OEM spares from the drop-down menu below and bring your device back to peak working condition.

• Garmin Instinct Vivoactive Forerunner Fenix Venu Motherboard Main PCB Side Buttons - Parts

Get an OEM replacement side button for your Garmin Fenix 6 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 Garmin Fenix 6 side button replacement, gather the following tools. Using the correct instruments will help you complete the repair successfully, without damaging delicate internal components, including cables, circuit boards, and connector ports. We used the following tools and recommend them for a safe, professional-quality DIY Garmin Fenix 6 side button replacement at home.

• T5 Screwdriver
• 1.5mm Flathead Screwdriver
• Nylon Spudger
• Isopropyl Alcohol
• Heat-Proof Anti-Static Rubber Work Mat

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 Worn-out, Jammed, or Stuck Side Button on the Garmin Fenix 6 Smartwatch at Home

In this detailed DIY repair guide, we show you how to replace the side button on the Garmin Fenix 6 at home. Follow the instructions and refer to the corresponding images to restore your device’s form and functionality.

Step 1: Separate the Display

1.1. Unfasten the 5 screws on the watch face using a T5 screwdriver and store them safely.

Ninja Tip: The Garmin Fenix 6 uses different-sized screws in different locations. Store them separately in the slots provided on the anti-skid heat-proof rubber work mat.

1.2. Gently lift the display on the side with 2 buttons to reveal the ribbon cable. Use a nylon spudger to disconnect the cables, then carefully store the display.

Step 2: Extract the Power Board

2.1. Disconnect the second ribbon cable using a nylon spudger.

2.2. Unfasten the 2 T5 screws and store them safely.

Word of Advice: The T5 screws on the power board have a dome-shaped top, unlike the T5 screws on the watch face, which have a flat top.

2.3. Insert the nylon spudger into the groove on the side of the power board and gently pry it out.

2.4. Test the 5 buttons on the power board to confirm they are moving freely. If these buttons are stuck or jamming, you will have to micro-solder new buttons. In our case, these buttons are fine. So, we’ll replace the button pusher on the side of the watch.

Step 3: Remove the Worn-out Button Pusher

3.1. Push the C-clamp, holding the button pusher, from the socket using a flathead screwdriver and set it aside.

3.2. Extract the jammed button by pushing it from the inside using the flathead screwdriver.

3.3. Remove the small metal washer and store it safely.

Step 4: Install a New Button Pusher

4.1. Clean the area surrounding the button using isopropyl alcohol on a brush, cotton swab, or Q-Tip.

Quick Tip: If the button pusher is not physically damaged, cleaning the area and the components can sometimes fix the jamming issue.

4.2. Make sure the new button pusher has a black O-ring. This is crucial for a waterproof seal.

4.3. Insert the small metal washer.

4.4. The activity button needs to go in the right orientation for a proper fit. Align the indent on the new button pusher with the notch in the watch body where the button will sit.

4.5. Press and hold the button as you insert the C-clamp, securing the pusher in place.

Step 5: Assemble the Garmin Fenix 6

5.1. Attach the power board to the watch body and fasten the 2 silver screws. Align the side with the 3 PCB buttons with the 3 pusher buttons on the watch shell.

Important Note: Some Fenix models may have metal plates on the sides for GPS and reception. If your variant has them, be careful to put them back in before reassembly.

5.2. Connect the ribbon cable to the power board.

5.3. Clean the watch surface with isopropyl alcohol to decontaminate the surface before final assembly and ensure a waterproof seal.

5.4. Connect the ribbon cable from the display to the power board.

5.5. Fasten the 5 flattop T5 screws.

Congratulations! Your Garmin Fenix 6 Smartwatch is Ready to Use

You have successfully replaced the stuck or jammed button pusher on the Garmin Fenix 6. Press the buttons multiple times to confirm tactile feedback and that they aren’t jamming. Inspect the watch casing for proper alignment and ensure the seals are properly installed.

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 smartwatch repair guides for other popular brands, including Apple, Fitbit, and Samsung.

Have questions or suggestions about this repair? Text a repair ninja or email us, and we’ll reply shortly.