How to Replace the Headband Assembly on the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones (DIY Repair Guide)

Do your Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless Bluetooth headphones have a cracked, loose, or broken headband? Do you hear clicking or creaking sounds, intermittent audio in one ear, or does the touch panel register ghost inputs? If you’re experiencing any of these issues, replacing the headband assembly is the best option.

In this DIY repair guide, we show you how to replace the worn-out headband assembly on the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones at home using OEM spare parts. The headband assembly includes the main wire, the left and right hinge swivels, and a premium headband leather cushion. You will find all the tools that you need for this repair, along with genuine replacement parts, listed below.

Do you want to get your headphones professionally repaired? Send us your Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless headphones, 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 45-60 minutes to complete.

This repair requires carefully disassembling the left and right earcups, handling delicate internal components such as ribbon cables, connectors, and a battery, and storing screws and gaskets separately. You don’t need technical skills or prior experience to replace the headband assembly. With the right tools, a bit of patience, and attention to detail, you can repair your Sony XM5 headphones at home.

Replacement Parts You’ll Need

Restore the comfort, fitment, and audio quality of your Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless headphones with original replacement parts. Select the OEM spares from the drop-down menu below to bring your device back to peak working condition.

• Genuine Sony Headphones WH-1000XM5 XM5 Headband Swivel Assembly Replacements - Parts

• Sony WH-1000 XM3 XM4 XM5 XM6 Headphones Repair Screwdriver + Pry Tool Repair - Kit

Get an OEM replacement headband assembly for your Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless headphones 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 Sony XM5 headband assembly 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.

• 1.5mm Phillips Screwdriver
• 1.5mm Flat Screwdriver
• Strong Pry Tool
• Anti-static Heat-proof Rubber Work Mat

Don’t want to DIY? Let our certified techs handle the repair for you. Book your repair now.

Step-by-Step DIY Guide to Replacing the Headband Assembly on the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones at Home

In this detailed DIY repair guide, we show you how to replace the worn-out headband assembly on the Sony XM5 headphones. Follow each step carefully and use the accompanying images as a visual guide to complete the repair with confidence.

Step 1: Remove the Earpads

1.1. Use the pry tool at the top of the right earpad and gently pry it up. Repeat this at the bottom and sides until the earpad comes off.

1.2. Once the earpad is off, remove the cushion underneath.

1.3. Repeat the same process for the left earpad.

Step 2: Remove Screws and Covers

2.1. Start with the right side: remove the screws using the Philips screwdriver.

2.2. After the right side is complete, remove the screws from the left side.

2.3. Flip the headphones over and remove the touchpad from the right side and the cover pad from the left side by gently unplugging them. Set them aside.

Step 3: Disconnect Internal Components

3.1. Unplug the battery using the flathead screwdriver to carefully pry it out.

3.2. Disconnect the main internal wire from the power board using your fingernail and the flathead screwdriver to ease it up.

3.3. Unplug the charger port ribbon and the MS port ribbon from the power board.

Step 4: Remove the Power Board

4.1. Remove the two black screws holding the power board in place.

4.2. Move the power board aside carefully.

4.3. Remove the two hidden screws underneath the power board.

Step 5: Detach the Swivel Assembly

5.1. Use the flathead screwdriver to carefully lift the right swivel mesh halfway.

5.2. Free the clips underneath the mesh and remove the swivel assembly.

5.3. Repeat the same process on the left side. Note: You don’t need to unplug any ribbons on the left side.

Step 6: Install the New Headband Assembly

6.1. Take the new headband assembly and begin by assembling the left side first. Place the assembly into position.

6.2. Fasten the two screws to secure the assembly. Tuck the wire under the mesh and press the mesh down.

6.3. Plug the main internal wire into the Bluetooth board and secure it under the clip.

6.4. Attach the left ear cup by screwing it back into place. Ensure it is tightly secured.

Step 7: Reassemble the Right Side

7.1. Repeat the same steps on the right side, making sure to pull the power board through the mesh before fastening it down.

7.2. Reattach the power board with the two screws, making sure all wires are tucked in properly.

7.3. Connect the main internal wire and secure it under the clip. Then reconnect all the ribbons to the power board.

7.4. Plug in the battery last, ensuring it is fully connected.

Step 8: Final Assembly

8.1. Reconnect the touchpad and left-side cover pad, ensuring they are aligned and secure.

8.2. Fasten all remaining screws on both sides.

8.3. Reattach the right earpad by pressing it down firmly on the top, bottom, and sides until you hear it click into place.

Congratulations! Your Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones are Ready to Use!

You’ve successfully replaced the headband assembly on your Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones. Check the audio quality, charging stability, touch response, and comfort to confirm the device has been repaired professionally.

If you found this guide helpful and would like to try your hand at DIY gadget repair, check out our store for essential tools and spare parts. You can also check out our at-home headphone repair guides for other popular brands, including Apple, Beats, Bose, and Sony.

Have questions or suggestions about this repair? Text a repair ninja or email us, and we’ll respond as soon as we can.