How to Fully Restore and Repair a DMG-01 Game Boy (Step-by-Step Guide)

How to Fully Restore and Repair a DMG-01 Game Boy (Step-by-Step Guide)

There’s something special about the original Nintendo Game Boy (DMG-01)—the iconic gray brick that started it all. But after decades of use (and years in storage), many of these retro handhelds need more than new batteries. Faded screens, sticky buttons, corroded battery contacts, and even broken PCB connections are common issues.

In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to tear down, clean, and refurbish a Game Boy DMG-01 from start to finish, including tools you’ll need and how to fix damaged circuit board traces. Whether you’re a collector, reseller, or just want to play your childhood games again, this tutorial has you covered.

Why Refurbish a DMG-01 Game Boy?

  • Preserve gaming history: These handhelds are over 30 years old, and restoring them keeps retro gaming alive.

  • Improve functionality: Cleaning and repairing a Game Boy fixes dim screens, bad button response, and power issues.

  • Increase resale value: A fully refurbished DMG-01 can sell for 2–3x more than an untested or broken unit.

  • Customize your handheld: Add a new shell, backlight mod, or custom sticker for a personalized touch.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before starting your Game Boy restoration, gather these tools and supplies:

  • Tri-wing screwdriver (Nintendo-specific)

  • Small Phillips screwdriver

  • Plastic opening tool or spudger

  • 90%+ isopropyl alcohol

  • Microfiber cloths and cotton swabs

  • Soft-bristle toothbrush

  • Contact cleaner (DeoxIT recommended)

  • Soldering iron, fine-tipped

  • Rosin-core solder

  • Copper jumper wire (for PCB trace repair)

  • Multimeter for continuity testing

Optional:

  • Replacement screen lens, button pads, or aftermarket shell kits.

  • Game Boy refurbishment kits with all the above included.

Step 1 – Disassemble the Game Boy

  1. Remove the batteries and game cartridge.

  2. Unscrew the six tri-wing screws on the back.

  3. Gently separate the case halves, being careful of the ribbon cable connecting the screen board.

  4. Detach the ribbon cable to fully separate both halves.

💡 Tip: Keep screws organized in a small container to avoid confusion during reassembly.

Step 2 – Clean the Shell and Buttons

  1. Wash plastic parts (except electronics) in warm water with mild dish soap.

  2. Use a toothbrush to scrub out grime and dirt buildup around button holes and edges.

  3. Rinse, dry completely, and wipe with a microfiber cloth.

  4. Clean button contacts with isopropyl alcohol for better responsiveness.

Step 3 – Clean the PCB

  1. Use a toothbrush dipped in isopropyl alcohol to remove dirt, dust, and corrosion.

  2. For battery acid corrosion, scrub lightly with vinegar, then neutralize with alcohol.

  3. Spray contact cleaner into the power switch and button pads for improved conductivity.

Step 4 – Repair Broken PCB Traces and Connections

If your Game Boy has no power or dead buttons, you may have a damaged trace or cold solder joint.

  1. Use a multimeter to check continuity on suspect lines.

  2. Scrape off the protective mask at each end of the broken trace.

  3. Apply a thin layer of solder to both ends, bridging the gap with copper wire if needed.

  4. Re-solder lifted component legs or replace faulty parts where necessary.

Step 5 – Reassemble and Test

  1. Reconnect the screen ribbon cable.

  2. Replace buttons and pads, ensuring proper alignment.

  3. Screw the case back together without overtightening.

  4. Insert batteries and test sound, screen, and button input.

If the screen is still faded or has lines, a screen replacement or polarizer fix may be necessary.

Optional Mods for Your Refurbished Game Boy

Once the Game Boy is running perfectly, you can upgrade it with:

  • IPS backlight display for modern brightness levels.

  • Custom shells and buttons for a unique look.

  • High-quality audio amp mods for improved sound.

  • Custom stickers or labels for a personal or branded finish.

🛠 Sound like too much of a chore? I sell them ready to play out of the box!

You can get your own here!!

Final Thoughts

Refurbishing a DMG-01 Game Boy is one of the most rewarding retro gaming projects you can tackle. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can fully restore a decades-old console to its former glory—or even give it a modern twist with upgrades and custom designs.

Whether you’re fixing a personal keepsake or restoring units to sell, this process saves vintage hardware from landfill and keeps classic gaming alive.

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