iFixit, the company that sells repair tools and parts for electronics, will soon provide repair kits for Kobo's colored e-readers. If you own one, it should be exciting news as you'll have everything needed to self-repair your device.
iFixit's kit often supplies repair guides and tutorials that walk you through the repair process step-by-step. You don't need prior electronics experience to understand them.
iFixit's kit support will make a handy repair person out of you
Rakuten Kobo e-book readers are tablet-like devices that you use to read digital books. They use electronic ink (e-ink) screens to offer a reading experience that's close to traditional books. They are available in various models, screen sizes, storage capacities, and features. Depending on the one you have, you may be able to browse the internet, play audiobooks, and do more.
Unlike Kindle and other devices, Kobo e-readers have a smaller market share, so there's lower demand for the products and their replacement parts. If something bad were to happen to your e-reader, and you've run out of warranty coverage, you would have a hard time getting it fixed, especially in regions where Rakuten Kobo isn't popular.
Thankfully, iFixit has announced that it'll make original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement parts available for select Kobo e-readers. Starting today, the parts will come with comprehensive installation guides. Kobo's latest e-reader models will be the first to receive this support, including the Kobo Clara Colour, Clara BW, and Libra Colour.
Replacement parts to expect in iFixit's kits
iFixit will provide batteries, motherboards, screen assemblies, as well as front and back covers. You can buy them from Kobo's repair hub webpage, along with tweezers, screwdrivers, and other tools the site recommends for the part you're fixing.
Each part has an illustrative OEM guide that shows you what to do. You'll also see useful tips like the repair difficulty and estimated repair time. This information helps you determine if you're really the right person to be fixing your e-reader.
While Kobo's deal sounds rosy, we checked out all three supported e-readers and they had a 6/10 rating. That tells me that they're moderately difficult to repair. So, you should expect challenges, especially if you suck at gluing electronics — or just assembling anything altogether. Even with the right tools, you want to take your time and be careful to avoid complications.
Access Kobo's self-repair resources on the website
Parts and guides for Kobo e-readers are now available for purchase on iFixit's website. Kobo Clara's parts alone had a cost range from $30 to $90. A genuine Kobo Libra Colour screen assembly cost as high as $129. If you're comfortable handling delicate electronics repairs and feel confident enough to follow iFixit's guides, then self-repair is worth the shot.
But if your device has a combination of multiple problems, it's better to see a professional, or just buy a new one. A cheaper solution is to download ebook apps from the Google Play Store that turn your regular phone or tablet into an e-book reader.
