To remove an Onn tablet battery, you must open the tablet's sealed back casing and carefully disconnect the internal battery connector. This guide provides the exact physical steps to remove onn tablet battery safely, with special attention to swollen battery hazards and the tools required for a sealed device.
Before you start: safety warnings and warranty notice
Lithium-ion batteries, especially swollen ones, pose a serious fire and chemical burn risk. If your Onn tablet's battery is visibly bulging, do not puncture, bend, or apply excessive heat to it. Attempting this repair will void your one-year manufacturer warranty, which only covers defects in materials and workmanship. If you are uncomfortable with any step, or if the battery is severely deformed, seek professional repair services instead of risking personal injury or property damage.
Step 1: Gather the right tools for a sealed tablet
Because Onn tablets are manufactured with a sealed back casing, you cannot simply pop the cover off. You will need a heat gun or hair dryer to soften the adhesive that bonds the back cover. Plastic pry tools are essential for separating the casing without scratching or cracking the plastic, while a suction cup helps create the initial gap for the pry tool. Tweezers allow you to handle the small battery connector, and a precision screwdriver set is necessary for removing any hidden screws that may secure the cover or battery bracket.
Step 2: Power off and prepare your Onn tablet
Fully power down your Onn tablet by pressing and holding the power button, then selecting "Power off" from the on-screen menu. Do not skip this step, as working on a powered-on device risks short-circuiting the motherboard. Prepare a clean, flat, and static-free workspace. An anti-static wrist strap is recommended, but if you don't have one, touch a grounded metal object before handling internal components to discharge static electricity.
Step 3: Soften the adhesive and remove the sealed back cover
This is the most delicate part of the process. Apply heat evenly along the edges of the tablet using a heat gun on low or a hair dryer on high, holding it a few inches away from the surface. The goal is to soften the adhesive, not to melt the plastic or overheat the battery. Once warm, place a suction cup near the center of the back cover and pull up gently to create a small gap. Insert a plastic pry tool into that gap and slide it along the edges, applying steady pressure to release the clips and adhesive. Work slowly around the entire perimeter, reheating any stubborn spots. Do not use metal tools, as they can scratch the casing or short-circuit internal components. Once the cover is free, lift it off and set it aside.
Step 3a: Locate the battery compartment
With the back cover removed, you will see the battery, which is typically a rectangular or square component occupying a large portion of the interior. It is usually secured with adhesive or a metal bracket. Look for any visible screws holding the battery or its connector in place and remove them with the appropriate screwdriver. Do not attempt to lift the battery yet if it is still connected.
Step 4: Safely disconnect the battery cable
Locate the battery cable where it plugs into the motherboard. This connector is usually a small, flat white or black plug with a thin wire. Use a plastic pry tool to gently lift the connector straight up from its socket. Do not pull on the cable itself, as this can tear the wires. If the connector has a latch or retaining clip, flip it up with the pry tool before attempting to disconnect. Once detached, gently move the cable away from the motherboard to prevent accidental reconnection. Avoid using metal tweezers or screwdrivers near this connection, as a short circuit can permanently damage the tablet.
Step 5: Remove the swollen or old battery
Now you can safely remove the battery. If the battery is swollen, treat it as a hazardous material, do not bend, crush, or puncture it. Swollen batteries are fragile, and any puncture can cause a violent chemical fire. Gently lift the battery by its edges using your fingers or plastic pry tools. If the battery is secured with strong adhesive, apply a small amount of heat around the battery compartment to soften the adhesive, then use a gentle rocking motion to release it. Never use sharp objects like screwdrivers or knives to pry the battery out. Once removed, note the battery's model number and specifications, which are printed on the battery's label. This information is essential for purchasing a replacement. Search online using that model number to find a compatible replacement battery for your Onn tablet.
Step 6: Reassemble your tablet or seek professional service
If you have a replacement battery, connect it by plugging the new battery connector into the motherboard socket, ensuring it clicks firmly into place. If you are reusing the old battery (which is not recommended if it is swollen or failing), simply reconnect it. Place the battery back into the compartment, making sure the cable is routed correctly and not pinched. Align the back cover with the tablet body and press it down along all edges until it snaps back into place. Reinstall any screws you removed. Power on the tablet to verify the new battery works. If the tablet does not power on, or if you are not confident in your repair, contact Onn Customer Support at 866-618-7888 or take the device to a professional repair service like Batteries Plus. Old batteries must be disposed of responsibly, do not throw them in the trash. Take them to a local electronics recycling center or a retailer that accepts lithium-ion batteries for proper disposal.
