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How to Replace the Motherboard or Main PCB Side Button on a Garmin Fenix 6 and 7 Smartwatch (DIY Repair Guide)
Are the buttons on your Garmin Fenix smartwatch becoming difficult to press? Are one or more buttons stuck or jammed? Dirt, moisture, corrosion, or normal wear can cause the tactile switch mechanism to jam over time. While a thorough cleaning may resolve issues caused by debris buildup, replacing the button is often the only solution when it is physically damaged or worn out.
In this DIY repair guide, we show you how to replace the tactile switch on the main board of a Garmin Fenix 6 smartwatch using OEM spare parts. The repair process is the same for the Fenix 7 as well. You will find all the tools needed for this repair, along with OEM replacement parts, below.
Want to get your smartwatch repaired by a professional? Send us your Garmin Fenix smartwatch, and our repair ninjas will restore your device 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 30-45 minutes to complete.
This repair involves handling delicate internal components, including small screws of different sizes, ribbon cables, a battery, a power board, 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 tactile button on the Garmin Fenix smartwatch yourself.
Replacement Parts You’ll Need
Restore the form and functionality of your Garmin Fenix smartwatch with original replacement parts. Select the OEM spares from the drop-down menu below and bring your device back to peak working condition.
- Garmin Fenix 7X, Fenix 7 Solar, Fenix Tactix 7 Tactile Button Switch Housing Press-In OEM Replacement Parts
- Garmin Fenix 7X, Fenix 7 Solar, Fenix Tactix 7 Tactile Button Switch Replacement OEM New
- Garmin Fenix 7 Tactile Button Switch Replacement OEM New
Get an OEM replacement tactile button for your Garmin Fenix 7 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 tactile 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 7 main board tactile switch replacement at home.
- T5 Screwdriver
- 1.5mm Flathead Screwdriver
- Nylon Spudger
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Soldering Iron
- Soldering Flux
- Soldering Wick
- 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 Jammed or Stuck Side Button on the Garmin Fenix Smartwatch at Home
In this detailed DIY repair guide, we show you how to replace the tactile switch on the Garmin Fenix main board at home. Follow the instructions and refer to the corresponding images to restore your device’s form and functionality.
Step 1: Extract the Display
1.1. Unfasten the 5 screws on the watch face using a T5 screwdriver and store them safely.
Expert Insight: 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.
2.3. Insert the nylon spudger into the groove on the side of the power board and gently pry it out.
Word of Advice: The 2 pins on the main board make contact with the display. Be careful not to bend or break them while prying the main board off the watch body.
2.4. Press all 5 switches on the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) or main board to identify the stuck or damaged tactile button.
Note: If you want to replace the button pusher, follow this link to read our step-by-step guide on how to replace the button pusher on the Garmin Fenix 6 smartwatch.
Step 3: Unsolder the Damaged or Jammed Tactile Button on the Main Board
3.1. Apply some soldering flux to the 5 connections that you want to unsolder.
3.2. With the help of a solder wick, unsolder the 5 wires connected to the worn-out tactile switch.
3.3. Clean the area with isopropyl alcohol.
Step 4: Install a New Tactile Button on the PCB
4.1. Apply some soldering flux to the area where you will attach the new tactile button.
4.2. Push the button inward using your finger and very carefully solder the first connection on the side to secure the tactile switch in place.
4.3. Solder the remaining 4 wires to form a secure connection.
4.4. Clean the area with isopropyl alcohol and a brush.
Step 5: Reassemble the Garmin Fenix Smartwatch
5.1. Before putting the Garmin Fenix smartwatch back together, test all 5 buttons to make sure they are working properly with an audible click.
5.2. Clean the watch surface with isopropyl alcohol to decontaminate the surface before final assembly and ensure a waterproof seal.
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.
5.3. Connect the ribbon cable to the power board.
5.4. Fasten the 2 small screws securing the power board.
5.5. Connect the ribbon cable from the display to the power board.
5.6. Fasten the 5 flattop T5 screws.
Congratulations! Your Garmin Fenix Smartwatch is Ready to Use
You have successfully replaced the stuck or jammed tactile switch on the Garmin Fenix main board. 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.