Check Yourself! Before ...

crwdns2853023:0crwdne2853023:0

When I found my daughters video iPod docked in her iHome with a cracked video display, I thought it had finally taken a drop from no return, either accidental or on purpose in attempt at an upgrade to an iPod Touch or new iPhone 4s. I had experience with battery replacement on a Video iPod so after finding the price for a color display to be very reasonable, I decided I would attempt the repair as the ifixit guides are are super easy to follow, what did I have to lose right? Before ordering the display, I decided to take the iPod apart and checked everything (or at least I thought I did), to make sure there wasn't anything else I needed. I ordered, it arrived quickly and away I went.

crwdns2853024:0crwdne2853024:0

You always need the right tool for the job, so if you don't have them, spend the little extra for the screwdriver. The iPod came apart easily and as expected. I replaced the front panel as well as the video display and was putting it back together but something was wrong as it would not properly close. I tried to force it, which I NEVER recommend and broke the new front panel I just purchased. Upon further investigation, I found the battery was bad. (see photos). What it appears is the battery overheated and failed, causing the battery expand which broke the video display. Fortunately I did not blame my daughter for breaking her iPod. I have come to find out that this is a known issue with these older batteries. I have since received a replacement battery and everything is back in good working order. Thanks ifixit.

crwdns2853025:0crwdne2853025:0

No matter how old your product, I would recommend visiting your local Apple store first and see what they are willing to do. Maybe I was lucky, but I have been overwhelmed by the level of assistance they have given me, going as far as replacing my iPhone for free when I cracked the screen. Outside of that, free yourself from distraction, take your time and you can make any of these fixes.