>
How to Replace a Damaged Hinge Swivel (Left and Right) on the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones at Home?
Are the hinges on your Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones broken or loose? If the earcups feel unstable, rotate unevenly, won’t hold their position, or show cracks around the hinge joint, the swivel mechanism may be worn or damaged. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to replace the swivel hinge.
In this DIY repair guide, we show you how to replace the damaged left and right hinge swivels on the Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless Bluetooth headphones with OEM spare parts. You will find all the tools needed for this repair, along with OEM replacement parts, below.
Prefer a professional fix? Send us your Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones and let our repair ninjas restore your device to optimal working condition. Follow the link, select the issues you’re experiencing, and click See Estimated Total to view the total repair cost instantly.
Choose Your Repair
Use the links below to navigate to the appropriate repair tutorial and follow the step-by-step instructions to begin the repair.
Repair Difficulty
Difficult / Requires 60-90 minutes to complete
This repair requires carefully cutting delicate wires, removing and storing small screws, and precisely reassembling critical internal components, such as power boards, ribbon connectors, Velcro straps, and gaskets. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you can complete this DIY repair at home.
Replacement Parts You’ll Need
Restore the form, function, and longevity of your Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones with OEM spare parts. Select the original replacement parts from the drop-down menu below to return your device to peak performance.
- Replacement Headband Hinge Swivel (Left or Right) for Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones Repair. Select the correct side and color from the drop-down menu below.
- 16-Pin Plastic Main Wire Connector for Sony Headphones WH-1000XM5 XM5 Headband Assembly.
Purchase original replacement swivel hinges (left or right) and 16-pin connector for your Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless Bluetooth headphones today. On the product page, scroll down to the Customers Also Add section to find all the tools you need for this repair in one place.
Tools You'll Need
Before starting the swivel hinge replacement on the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Using the proper tools helps you complete the repair safely while protecting the headphone’s delicate internal components. We used the following tools and recommend them for a smooth, professional-quality DIY swivel hinge replacement at home.
- Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones Repair Screwdriver and Pry Tool Repair Kit
- Anti-Static Parts Organizer Mat
- Fabric Glue
- Flexible Rubber Clear Tubing
Not ready to invest in tools? Find your device in our Repair Catalog, select the issues it’s experiencing, and send it to us. Our repair ninjas will handle the rest for you.
Step-by-Step DIY Guide to Replacing the Left Hinge Swivel on the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
This step-by-step DIY guide explains how to replace the left swivel hinge on Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones if it is worn or broken. Follow the instructions carefully to restore your device’s functionality and longevity using the original replacement parts.
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
1.1 Before tearing into the left earcup, you must disconnect the battery, which is located inside the right earcup. Start by inserting the strong metal pry tool under the right earpad and unclip the fasteners around the edges.
1.2 Remove the mesh and store it safely.
1.3 Using the 1.5mm Phillips screwdriver, extract the 8 small silver screws holding the exterior touch panel together.
1.4 Peel away the adhesive tape over the battery using the flathead screwdriver.
1.5 Disconnect the battery connector.
1.6 Separate the touch panel to create more space to work with.
Step 2: Remove the Left Earpad Cushion
2.1 Insert the metal pry tool under the left earpad cushion and unclip the fasteners holding it in place.
2.2 Separate the mesh and store it safely.
2.3 Extract the 8 small silver screws holding the back cover in place.
2.4 Take the back cover off.
Step 3: Remove the Internal Components
3.1 Using a flathead screwdriver, disconnect the main internal cable wire from the Bluetooth port.
3.2 Detach the 2 screws holding the worn hinge swivel using the Philips 1.5mm screwdriver.
3.3 Unclip the MS Cable to avoid damaging it.
3.4 Using a flathead screwdriver, peel away the gasket.
3.5 Peel away the gasket halfway to expose the tabs on both ends of the hinge swivel. The left earcup should be free. Pop it out of the way and store it safely.
Step 4: Remove the Damaged Hinge Swivel
4.1 Separate the plastic tab from the main internal cable. The tab on the other side pops out easily. Store them safely as you’ll need them during reassembly.
4.2 Locate the side of the cable connector where the wire ends are visible. Using a flathead screwdriver, break the plastic wire clips by inserting the tip into the small crease and gently prying until the clip snaps open. Once removed, discard the old connector clip.
4.3 Separate the wires into small groups of 6 and twist them together into pigtails. This will keep them organized and make reinstallation easier. You can leave the final 2-3 wires as they are. This will help during reassembly.
4.4 Using the flathead screwdriver, extract the main cable from the broken hinge swivel.
4.5 Extract the single screw holding the worn hinge swivel.
4.6 Store the plastic tab carefully.
4.7 Use the 1.5mm Phillips screwdriver to remove the small screw holding the base of the hinge mechanism.
4.8 Insert a metal pry tool under the plastic tab and gently lift it away from the hinge mechanism. Pop the clip off one side, then repeat the process on the other.
4.9 Use the flathead screwdriver to separate the adhesive from the tab. Don’t remove the adhesive from the other end of the headband, as you’ll need it during reassembly.
4.10 Remove the plastic tab and store it safely.
4.11 Extend the headband adjuster all the way and pull it toward you and down to dislodge the socket.
4.12 Tuck the small Velcro strap back into place. It increases friction inside the headband slider, helping keep the earcups in a comfortable position.
4.13 Extract the single screw holding the slider mechanism in place using a Phillips 1.5mm screwdriver.
4.14 Pry the inner black plastic piece up using a flathead screwdriver and remove the remainder of the hinge swivel.
Step 5: Glue the Headband Fabric (Optional)
5.1 Take a bit of fabric glue on the flathead screwdriver and apply it evenly on the plastic rim.
5.2 Press on the fabric using your thumb toward the side with the freshly applied adhesive to put it back into shape. Tuck the excess fabric under the plastic rim for a taut fit.
5.3 Wait for around 10 minutes for the adhesive to cure.
Step 6: Install the New Hinge Swivel
6.1 Take the plastic part and guide the twisted wires through the opening.
6.2 Insert the twisted wires into a rubber-based tube to help guide the wires through the new hinge. This will prevent tangling and make reinstallation easier.
6.3 Feed the rubber tube through the new hinge swivel.
6.4 Push the wires from the other side as you pull the rubber tube.
6.5 Align the screw hole with the one on the black inner component, press the parts together, and secure them with the screw. If the small Velcro strap falls out, reattach it with fabric glue. Do not discard the Velcro strap.
6.6 Push the bottom edge of the new hinge swivel first, followed by the top end. Apply gentle pressure to make sure it pops into place. Slide the mechanism to ensure proper functioning.
6.7 Push the plastic tab over the edge of the plastic rim on which the fabric sits.
6.8 Install the Phillips screw on the plastic tab.
6.9 Feed the twisted wires through the small opening in the new hinge swivel, pull it through, and push the wire into the groove provided on the hinge swivel.
6.10 Install the plastic tab and screw it down with a 1.5mm Phillips screwdriver.
Step 7: Reassemble Your Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
7.1 Unwind the wires and insert them into the new plastic main wire connector. Align the clips at the ends of the wires with the connector to ensure they are oriented correctly. Each wire should click into place and fit snugly. Match the wire colors with those in the other earcup to confirm the correct order, or refer to the reference image in the top-right corner of the image below.
7.2 Install the 2 black tabs. If you’re unsure which tab goes on which side, place them into the dedicated grooves on the earcup to determine the correct order.
7.3 Install the 2 screws securing the black tabs on the new hinge swivel with the earcup.
7.4 Press the gasket back into place. It is secured with adhesive and should stick easily.
7.5 Attach the MS connector.
7.6 Plug the main wire into the Bluetooth port. Tuck any loose wires into the hook under the connector.
7.7 Install the back cover.
7.8 Flip it over and fasten the 8 small screws.
7.9 Reinstall the mesh.
7.10 Align the semi-circular tab at the bottom of the left earpad cushion with the earcup and press along the sides to clip it into position.
Step 8: Reconnect the Battery
8.1 Take the right earcup and reattach the main battery connector. You can use the flathead screwdriver to press it down securely.
8.2 Stick the adhesive tape back over the battery connector.
8.3 Reattach the touch panel ribbon.
8.4 Attach the touch panel, flip the earcup over, and fasten the 8 small silver screws.
8.5 Align the semi-circular plastic tab on the earpad cushion at the bottom of the earcup and press it securely in place.
Step-by-Step DIY Guide to Replacing the Right Hinge Swivel on the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
This step-by-step DIY guide explains how to replace the right swivel hinge on Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones if it is worn or broken. Follow the instructions carefully to restore your device’s functionality and longevity using the original replacement parts.
Step 1: Remove the Ear Pad and Mesh
1.1 Insert the pry tool under the ear pad and gently lift to release the clips. Once they come loose, pull the ear pad away.
1.2 Remove the mesh cover inside the speaker housing.
Step 2: Remove the Screws and Touch Pad
2.1 Using a 1.5mm Phillips screwdriver, remove all silver screws inside the speaker housing.
2.2 Flip the headphones over and carefully pull off the touch pad to expose the broken hinge swivel.
2.3 Use the flathead screwdriver to release the ribbon cable from the clip.
Step 3: Disconnect the Battery and Main Wire
3.1 Peel off the adhesive strip to access the battery and wires.
3.2 Pull the battery connector out.
3.3 Unplug the main wire from the power board.
Step 4: Expose and Remove the Hinge Swivel
4.1 Use a flathead screwdriver to wedge between the speaker housing and the gasket. Carefully pry it up, but do not remove it completely—lifting it halfway is enough to expose the internal tabs.
4.2 The power board partially covers one of the screws securing the hinge. To access it, remove the two Phillips screws securing the power board, then disconnect the three ribbon cables.
4.3 Gently lift the power board just enough to access the hidden screw underneath. Be careful not to pull too hard, as the ribbon cables are still connected.
4.4 Locate the two small black screws on the exposed tabs, which secure the hinge swivel in place. Use a 1.5mm Phillips screwdriver to remove them.
4.5 Pull the hinge swivel downward until it releases from the headband.
4.6 Save the plastic pieces from the hinge for reassembly.
Step 5: Remove the Old Hinge Swivel and Manage Wires
5.1 Remove the silver screw securing the wire clip in place. This screw is located near the hinge swivel.
5.2 Use a flathead screwdriver to break the plastic wire clip. Insert the flathead into the small crease and gently pry it apart until the clip snaps open.
5.3 Carefully pull out the wires from the broken clip. Since Sony designed it this way, this is the only way to release the wires for hinge replacement.
5.4 Separate the wires into small groups of six and twist them together into pigtails. This will keep them organized and make reinstallation easier.
5.5 Once all wires are removed, discard the broken clip and pull the wire bundle completely through the hinge.
5.6 Remove the final Phillips screw securing the hinge swivel in place.
5.7 Use a small pry tool to lift the hinge tab slightly. Then use a flathead screwdriver to gently break the adhesive underneath, taking care not to remove it, as it helps hold the components together.
5.8 Grab the headband and hinge swivel, then pull the hinge swivel downward while making sure it is fully extended. Once it loosens, remove it completely.
5.9 If the Velcro piece at the bottom of the hinge comes loose, do not discard it—you will need it for reinstallation.
5.10 Remove the last remaining screw that was securing the hinge swivel.
5.11 Use a flathead screwdriver to pry up and remove any remaining pieces of the old hinge swivel.
5.12 Discard the broken hinge swivel, as it is no longer needed.
5.13 Apply fabric glue to reattach the Velcro to its original position. Use a flathead screwdriver to spread the glue evenly. Allow the glue to dry for a few minutes before continuing.
Step 6: Prepare the New Hinge Swivel
6.1 Take the new plastic part and install it by threading the wire bundle through its designated opening. Carefully slide the part down along the wire bundle until it reaches its mounting position.
6.2 Insert the wire bundle into a rubber-based tube to help guide the wires through the new hinge. This will prevent tangling and make reinstallation easier.
6.3 Feed the rubber tube with the wires through the new hinge swivel, carefully pulling the wires through to the other side.
6.4 Once the wires are fully pulled through, remove the rubber tube, making sure the wire bundle remains intact and untangled.
Step 7: Install the New Hinge Swivel
7.1 Align the new hinge swivel with its mounting position, ensuring the wires are routed correctly and not pinched.
7.2 Secure the hinge by reinstalling the screws on both sides of the hinge swivel.
7.3 Clip the hinge into the headband by gently pressing it until it locks into place.
7.4 Slide down the plastic piece to cover the hinge and secure it properly.
7.5 Install the second screw to finalize the hinge attachment and ensure it is firmly in place.
7.6 Feed the wire through the opening, ensuring it is properly routed and not twisted.
7.7 Put the plastic tab back in place and secure it with a screw.
Step 8: Organizing Wires, Pigtailing, and Securing with Plastic Tabs
8.1 Insert each wire into the designated slot in the new plastic wire clip, ensuring they match the correct order. Press down gently on each wire to make sure it is fully seated in the clip.
8.2 Pigtail all wires together to make them tight and secure.
8.3 Put the plastic tabs back over the clip, ensuring they snap into place.
Step 9: Attach the Hinge to the Cup and Reinstall the Power Board
9.1 Place the hinge back into the ear cup, making sure it aligns properly with the mounting points.
9.2 Secure the hinge to the cup by fastening the screws removed earlier.
9.3 Place the power board back into its original position, ensuring it aligns properly with the mounting points, then secure it by fastening the two Phillips screws removed earlier.
9.4 Reconnect the main ribbon cables, ensuring each one is properly inserted into its connector.
9.5 Press down gently on each ribbon cable to confirm it is fully seated in its connector.
9.6 Reconnect the battery cable, making sure the connection is firm and properly aligned.
Step 10: Reconnect the Touchpad and Secure the Speaker Housing
10.1 Plug the touchpad ribbon cable back into its connector, ensuring it is fully inserted and secured.
10.2 Close the ear cup by carefully aligning the speaker housing and pressing it back into place.
10.3 Secure the speaker housing by reinstalling all the Phillips screws removed earlier.
Step 11: Reinstall the Mesh and Earpads
11.1 Place the mesh cover back onto the speaker housing and press it down to secure it.
11.2 Align the ear pad with the cup and press around the edges until it snaps securely into place.
Congratulations! Your Sony WH-1000XM5 is Ready to Use
You have successfully replaced the hinge swivels on your Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless Bluetooth headphones. Check the audio quality, touch controls, and Bluetooth pairing to confirm the device is functioning properly.
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 headphones 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.