Fixability Index

AirPods 4 repairability

By Fixability Index · Updated 26 September 2026

The earbud batteries are soldered in and epoxy seals the charging case, making battery or USB-C service destructive.

What to check before buying

Replacement parts
The earbud batteries are soldered in; epoxy seals the charging case.
Repair documentation
iFixit’s teardown shows destructive opening for both earbuds and charging case.
Case variant
Standard A3058 and ANC A3059 use different charging cases.

Earbud batteries

iFixit reports that prying an earbud open is likely destructive and its internal batteries are soldered. The charging case is also epoxy-sealed around its battery and USB-C port.

Two versions

Standard and ANC AirPods 4 have different cases and model numbers. The ANC case adds wireless charging and a speaker; a replacement case must match the version.

Sources

  1. AirPods 4 Repair HelpiFixit
  2. Wireless earbud repairability findingsiFixit

Related products

Headphones

AirPods Pro 2

Parts
Replacement ear tips are available; Apple offers service for an affected bud or case.
Documentation
Apple has service guidance; iFixit shows the sealed internals and an ear-tip guide.
Battery
Bud and case cells are sealed, so battery age matters when buying used.
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Headphones

Sony WH-1000XM5

Parts
Ear pads are sold through Sony’s parts channel; a broken-headband service offer is US-specific.
Documentation
Sony’s WH-1000XM5 pad guide covers replacement, not internal battery service.
Pad wear
Compressed pads can weaken the seal and noise cancellation without an electronics fault.
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