How to Install Sony WH-1000XM3 Side Slider Cover Parts
Did the plastic rim on your Sony WH-1000XM3 side slider crack or break off, so the headband won’t adjust anymore? This guide shows you how to swap in our upgraded slider cover parts at home, with no soldering and no need to open the ear cups.
Watch: Sony WH-1000XM3 side slider cover installation
Ready to order? Grab the XM3 slider upgrade kit.
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Shop the XM3 Slider Kit: $44.99What You’ll Need
The kit covers both sides of the headphones:
- Inner and outer side cover slider parts for both sides (left and right)
- The tools needed for the repair (included with the kit)
- The original screws from your headphones (you will reuse them)
You may also need:
- Small wire clippers, only if a thin piece of the old plastic rim is still attached
Step-by-Step: How to Replace the Sony WH-1000XM3 Side Slider Covers
Step 1: Remove the screws holding the two pieces together
Unscrew the screws that hold the inner and outer slider pieces together. Set them aside somewhere safe because you will reuse them on the new parts.
Tip: Put the screws in a small dish or cup so they don’t roll away. You need every one of them.
Step 2: Separate the old pieces
With the screws out, the pieces should come apart easily. If they’re still stuck together, gently pry them apart with a plastic pry tool. If the thin plastic rim is still partly attached, cut it away with wire clippers.
Step 3: Remove the wire bracket screw
On the inside of the part, use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw holding the wire bracket.
Step 4: Slide off the outer piece
Once the wire bracket is loose, slide the old outer slider piece off.
Step 5: Remove the inner piece
Use the Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws holding the mounting plate on the inner piece. Then lift the inner piece off with a gentle sweeping upward motion.
Step 6: Install the new inner piece
Use the same gentle sweeping upward motion to fit the new inner piece onto the silver mounting plate, lining it up with the screw holes and the small posts. Once it’s aligned, secure it with the original screws.
Tip: Don’t over-tighten. The plastic can strip out, so stop as soon as the screws are snug.
Step 7: Slide on the new outer piece
Slide the new outer piece into place.
Step 8: Reattach the wire bracket
Line up the wire bracket screw with the hole on the inside of the part and tighten it until it’s just snug. It’s very important not to over-tighten this one.
Step 9: Snap the pieces together
Line up the inner and outer pieces and gently snap them together.
Step 10: Install the remaining screws
Put the original screws you removed in step 1 back in to hold the new parts together. A gentle snug fit is plenty.
Step 11: Test the headband and repeat
Try adjusting the headband. It will feel tighter and different from the original Sony parts at first, and it loosens up a bit with use. Repeat the steps on the other side.
Get your XM3 headband adjusting again.
Usually ships within one business day from Fox Lake, IL. Small USA family business, established in 2014.
Get the XM3 Slider Kit: $44.99Why Do the Sony WH-1000XM3 Slider Covers Break?
The side slider cover wraps around the headband with a thin plastic rim. Every time you adjust the headband or fold the headphones, that rim flexes, and over time it cracks and breaks off. Once it’s gone, the headband won’t hold its size. It’s a very common XM3 problem.
Replacing the original Sony part means taking the headphones apart and soldering. Our upgrade kit is designed and made in the USA from strong PA-Nylon 12, installs with a screwdriver and comes with a lifetime warranty. The parts are black with a mildly rough texture, so the color won’t exactly match the original, but they make your headphones usable again.
All Replacement Parts for the Sony WH-1000XM3
More parts made to fit the XM3:
Battery
XM3 Replacement Battery
3.7V 1000mAh Li-Ion battery to restore battery life. $29.99
Shop NowTools
Sony Headphones Repair Tool Kit
Screwdrivers, pry tools and spudgers for XM2 to XM5 repairs. $17.99
Shop NowFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need to solder anything?
No. These parts install with a screwdriver. No soldering is needed.
Are tools included?
Yes. The kit includes the tools needed for the repair. You reuse the original screws from your headphones.
Does the kit cover both sides?
Yes. It includes the inner and outer slider parts for the left and right side.
Are these original Sony parts?
No. They are CentralSound replacement parts, designed and made in the USA from PA-Nylon 12. They are black, have a mildly rough texture and will not exactly match the original color.
Why does the headband feel tight after installing?
That is normal with the new parts. It loosens up a little with use, making it easier to adjust.
Will this fit the WH-1000XM2 or MDR-1000X?
No. This kit fits the WH-1000XM3 only. For those models, see our WH-1000XM2 and MDR-1000X slider kit.
DISCOVER · REPAIR · REVIVE
Your XM3s aren’t done yet.
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Shop the XM3 Slider KitBrowse All Sony Parts