iPod touch Home button replacement (Touch 4g)

[macstatic]

My iPod Touch 4g seems to have a worn out home button as the problem has only gotten worse recently. I've tried the calibration but it definitely seems like a hardware failure of the actual button so I'm trying to figure out how to fix this myself.

From what I've heard I can open up the device using a hairdryer (to soften the glue) which then gains me access to the button. I see replacements being sold at eBay but I'm not sure what I should look for: "home button flex cable", "Home menu gasket button" or "Home button with spacer"? I'm guessing the cable by seeing the photos...

 

[theatremusician]

It's a known (and really annoying) issue with the 4g iPod Touch. Apple should really have done a recall on this model.

 

[SusanK]

Workaround

Settings >accessibility> assistive touch

This may help until you are able to repair the home button. It's my permanent solution for the same issue.

 

[macstatic]

Good to know about the assistive touch if it stops working altogether.

So if this is a known and common issue, does it also mean that by replacing the actual mechanical button I'll be getting the same problem back soon?

 

[venomgt95]

Good to know about the assistive touch if it stops working altogether.

So if this is a known and common issue, does it also mean that by replacing the actual mechanical button I'll be getting the same problem back soon?

You'll have to replace the home button ribbon cable. My white 4g touch has the same issue. I just use assistive touch.

https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/iPod+Touch+4th+Generation+Home+Button+Ribbon+Cable+Replacement/3615

 

[6r4ff3r]

It happens sometimes in my iPod touch 4gen too, but unless Apple makes a recall, i will not spend money to change it. Assistive touch serves well for the purpose...

 

[Brian Y]

Good to know about the assistive touch if it stops working altogether.

So if this is a known and common issue, does it also mean that by replacing the actual mechanical button I'll be getting the same problem back soon?

Maybe, but it's such a cheap part, and they normally last a few years before going.

 

[AsmaMohd]

For complete information 4th generation home button replacement, follow the link: https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/iPod+Touch+4th+Generation+Home+Button+Ribbon+Cable+Replacement/3615

 

[ackmondual]

Settings >accessibility> assistive touch

This may help until you are able to repair the home button. It's my permanent solution for the same issue.

For me on my IpT5 running ios7.0.4
Settings > General > accessibility> assistive touch

First saw this on a floor model Iph6/+. Thought it was something new to that

 

[macstatic]

For complete information 4th generation home button replacement, follow the link: https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/iPod+Touch+4th+Generation+Home+Button+Ribbon+Cable+Replacement/3615

Excellent instructions! I've received my "home button ribbon cable" which I ordered from China via eBay so time permitting I'll give it a go. I'm a little nervous about damaging it though as (according to the instructions) there are some extremely delicate parts inside. Anyone here done the repair?