How do I replace the battery in the iPod nano models?

If it is out of warranty, Apple once would replace the battery in any iPod nano model for a cost of US$59 plus US$6.95 shipping, but it no longer does.

However, a variety of more affordable third-party services also are available. Third-parties offer battery replacement services for considerably less than Apple charges and often sell "longer runtime than stock" batteries for self-installation as well.

Identification Help

If you are not sure which iPod nano you have, one way to externally identify these models is via a unique model number on the back of the device. Specifically, the original iPod nano is A1137, the 2nd Gen is A1199, the 3rd Gen is A1236, the 4th Gen is A1285, the 5th Gen is A1320 and the 6th Gen is A1366.

These models also can be differentiated by serial number with Everyi.com's Ultimate iLookup. Like the model number, the serial number is toward the bottom on the back of the device (or under the "teeth" on the clip) and also is available when plugged into a computer on the "Summary" tab in a modern version of iTunes (among other methods).

In addition to its serial number, Everyi.com's Ultimate iLookup feature can identify the iPod mini models by EMC number and order number, as well.

Battery Replacement Video Instructions

Replacing the battery in the iPod nano models -- regardless of generation -- is difficult and requires soldering. Professional installation is recommended.

Nevertheless, for tech savvy individuals, there are videos available that cover battery replacement for the iPod nano line. A selection of quality videos covering the original iPod nano as well as everything you need for the iPod nano 2nd Gen, 3rd Gen, 4th Gen, 5th Gen and 6th Gen follow for your convenience.

Original iPod nano (A1137)

Site sponsor Other World Computing has a step-by-step video for the original model:

iPod nano -- 2nd Gen (A1199)

PDASmart covers the 2nd Gen:

iPod nano -- 3rd Gen (A1236)

RepairsUniverse covers the 3rd Gen:

iPod nano -- 4th Gen (A1285)

PowerBookMedic [no longer online] covers the 4th Gen:

iPod nano -- 5th Gen (A1320) & 6th Gen (A1366)

iFixit has directions for the iPod nano 5th Gen that may be of interest and BadGizmo covers the 6th Gen with this helpful video:

From watching the applicable video you should be able to determine whether or not you feel comfortable replacing the battery in your particular iPod nano yourself or if you would instead prefer to pay a professional to perform the upgrade on your behalf.

Site sponsor Other World Computing offers high quality iPod nano batteries for those interested in do-it-yourself replacement.

Also see:

• How do I replace the battery in the full-size iPod models?
• How do I replace the battery in the iPod mini models?
• How do I replace the battery in the iPod touch models?
• How do I replace the battery in the iPod shuffle models?