Recommended Free Tools
You can replace the Sony WH-1000XM5 ear pads yourself, but Sony recommends using an Authorized Service Center. If you do the repair at home, use the specified disassembling tool, release the six attachment claws gently, and avoid touching the exposed driver. After fitting the new pads, adjust the headband and earcups so the pads sit snugly around your ears.
Before you start
Sony’s WH-1000XM5 support article, last modified November 21, 2024, says owners can replace the earpads but recommends having an Authorized Service Center do it. For DIY replacement, Sony specifies replacement earpads and a disassembling tool, sold separately. The Sony parts listing includes a model-specific earpad assembly; a listing does not confirm current stock or availability in every country.
- Turn off the headphones before beginning.
- Use replacement pads designed for the WH-1000XM5 and the specified disassembling tool.
- Work carefully around the exposed driver and internal cushioning; if you are not comfortable removing the pad assembly, use an Authorized Service Center.
How to remove and install the ear pads
1. Locate the attachment claws
Hold the earcup housing plate steady. Trace the inner edge of the cushion to find the six claws that secure the pad assembly. Sony’s support instructions show their approximate positions around the earcup.
2. Release the old pad
Insert the disassembling tool behind the earpad plate at Sony’s specified point between claws. Lift gently until one claw releases, then move around the perimeter in small steps. Do not pull on the cushion itself or lever against the housing block; force can damage the assembly.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches#1 Best Overall
- Easy Installation: Smooth installation with this complete replacement ear cushions kit compatible with Sony XM5 headphones. No special tools are needed and the package includes a step-by-step guide for you to follow along.
- Unmatched Comfort and Thickness: These replacement ear pads are made from a new softer leather and memory foam combination that finds the perfect balance of comfort and durability. We also increased the thickness of our Sony XM5 Earpads to prevent painful mashing of your ears into the drivers. No need to break these ear pads in, they feel soft from Day 1.
- Enhanced Sound: Old, beat-up ear cushions negatively affect the sound performance of your headphones? These earpads for Sony XM5 Over Ear Headphones comfortably conform to your ear, blocking out noise and dialing in the sound, so you can drift off into the beats.
- Rugged Durability: The inside seams on this replacement ear cushion kit for Sony XM5 Headphones are made with added stitching reinforced with glue, to prevent your cushions from splitting and increase their lifespan.
- Fits Like A Glove: These ear pads, made by Wicked Cushions, fit the following model of Sony Headphones only: Sony Wh1000-XM5 Headphones.
3. Check the cushioning underneath
Once the pad is off, do not touch the exposed driver. Check that the cushioning material over the housing remains in place. Sony warns that if it comes off or is positioned incorrectly, noise cancellation may work poorly and echo may occur. Reposition it carefully if needed, without touching internal parts.
4. Align the replacement
Match the pad’s L or R marking and uneven features to the corresponding earcup. The pad’s two rear pegs must line up with the two small holes in the housing. Orientation matters: Sony notes that misaligned claws prevent correct installation.
Rank #2
- Easy Installation: Smooth installation with this complete replacement ear cushions kit compatible with Sony XM5 headphones. No special tools are needed and the package includes a step-by-step guide for you to follow along.
- Unmatched Comfort and Thickness: These replacement ear pads are made from a new softer leather and memory foam combination that finds the perfect balance of comfort and durability. We also increased the thickness of our Sony XM5 Earpads to prevent painful mashing of your ears into the drivers. No need to break these ear pads in, they feel soft from Day 1.
- Enhanced Sound: Old, beat-up ear cushions negatively affect the sound performance of your headphones? These earpads for Sony XM5 Over Ear Headphones comfortably conform to your ear, blocking out noise and dialing in the sound, so you can drift off into the beats.
- Rugged Durability: The inside seams on this replacement ear cushion kit for Sony XM5 Headphones are made with added stitching reinforced with glue, to prevent your cushions from splitting and increase their lifespan.
- Fits Like A Glove: These ear pads, made by Wicked Cushions, fit the following model of Sony Headphones only: Sony Wh1000-XM5 Headphones.
5. Seat and check the clips
Press around the pad until all six claws click into place. Gently pull the pad to check that it is secure, then smooth any wrinkles as Sony instructs. If the clips do not line up or the pad does not sit evenly, remove it and check its orientation and peg alignment rather than forcing it.
Adjust the fit after replacement
Sony’s WH-1000XM5 Help Guide recommends extending the slider fully before putting on the headset, then adjusting it until the headband touches the top of your head. Rotate the left and right earcups so the pads fit snugly all around your ears. Sony warns that failing to adjust the slider can cause discomfort or weak noise cancellation.
Rank #3
- Crafted from customized memory foam, it's not too stiff to cause ear fatigue, nor is it too soft to be squishy or lack in support. It strikes an ideal balance and conforms seamlessly to your ears for extended listening sessions
- Redefined soft synthetic leather. Gentle on your skin while restoring your headphones with a delicately textured, brand-new feel
- Hybrid Sealing combines reinforced stitching and heat sealing, so you no longer need to worry about ear pad splitting apart
- Engineered to be robust and resilient, these pads ensure that your headphones stay in prime condition for years to come, effortlessly withstanding daily wear and tear
- Easy Installation: Includes a pry tool for added convenience. Enjoy a hassle-free installation process that quickly gets you back to your music
Choosing replacement pads
You can use genuine Sony parts or consider model-specific third-party pads, but compatibility alone does not establish that a pad will feel better or preserve the headset’s original performance. Compare the exact WH-1000XM5 fit, material, thickness, attachment alignment and return policy before buying. Neither the cited Sony parts listing nor the manufacturer information establishes a best option for comfort, sound, noise cancellation or durability.
Dekoni Audio’s installation information notes that greater pad depth can interfere with capacitive wear detection on its design. That is manufacturer guidance about a design constraint, not independent comparative testing; it does not show how every aftermarket pad will behave.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Easy Installation: Smooth installation with this complete replacement ear cushions kit compatible with Sony XM5 headphones. No special tools are needed and the package includes a step-by-step guide for you to follow along.
- Unmatched Comfort and Thickness: These replacement ear pads are made from a new softer leather and memory foam combination that finds the perfect balance of comfort and durability. We also increased the thickness of our Sony XM5 Earpads to prevent painful mashing of your ears into the drivers. No need to break these ear pads in, they feel soft from Day 1.
- Enhanced Sound: Old, beat-up ear cushions negatively affect the sound performance of your headphones? These earpads for Sony XM5 Over Ear Headphones comfortably conform to your ear, blocking out noise and dialing in the sound, so you can drift off into the beats.
- Rugged Durability: The inside seams on this replacement ear cushion kit for Sony XM5 Headphones are made with added stitching reinforced with glue, to prevent your cushions from splitting and increase their lifespan.
- Fits Like A Glove: These ear pads, made by Wicked Cushions, fit the following model of Sony Headphones only: Sony Wh1000-XM5 Headphones.
Rank #4
- Easy Installation: Smooth installation with this complete replacement ear cushions kit compatible with Sony XM5 headphones. No special tools are needed and the package includes a step-by-step guide for you to follow along.
- Unmatched Comfort and Thickness: These replacement ear pads are made from a new softer leather and memory foam combination that finds the perfect balance of comfort and durability. We also increased the thickness of our Sony XM5 Earpads to prevent painful mashing of your ears into the drivers. No need to break these ear pads in, they feel soft from Day 1.
- Enhanced Sound: Old, beat-up ear cushions negatively affect the sound performance of your headphones? These earpads for Sony XM5 Over Ear Headphones comfortably conform to your ear, blocking out noise and dialing in the sound, so you can drift off into the beats.
- Rugged Durability: The inside seams on this replacement ear cushion kit for Sony XM5 Headphones are made with added stitching reinforced with glue, to prevent your cushions from splitting and increase their lifespan.
- Fits Like A Glove: These ear pads, made by Wicked Cushions, fit the following model of Sony Headphones only: Sony Wh1000-XM5 Headphones.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
