Tag: water damaged cell phone

  • 6 Important Things to Check Before Buying a Second Hand Mobile Phone (Used Phone)

    6 Important Things to Check Before Buying a Second Hand Mobile Phone (Used Phone)

    Buying a pre-owned smartphone can be a smart financial decision, especially for people who love upgrading often or want good features at a lower cost. A brand-new device may offer a fresh feel, but it is not always necessary when many used phones deliver strong performance at a fraction of the price.

    However, choosing a second hand device requires careful inspection. There are fake models, faulty units, refurbished devices with hidden problems, and phones with damaged parts. Proper checks help you avoid losses and ensure you get a long-lasting device.

    You should also know when it is time for an upgrade to a new smartphone. Whatever be your reasons to opt for a used smartphone, you must remember that purchasing a used or second hand device can be a tricky affair, what with the market flooded with plenty of faulty and fake cell phones.

    This guide covers detailed steps, expert advice, deep inspection tips, and important precautions. With the right knowledge, you can confidently evaluate any used smartphone and decide whether it is worth the price.

    Why Buying a Used Smartphone Can Be a Smart Choice

    Pre-owned smartphones have become popular for several reasons. Many people upgrade every year, leaving behind well-maintained devices. Others prefer older models because they still function well and cost less. Buying a used phone can also help reduce electronic waste, making it a more eco-friendly choice.

    But this choice only works well if you identify a device that has been handled with care. Without inspection, you may end up spending more on repairs than on the phone itself. That is why it is essential to follow careful evaluation steps.

    1. Confirm That the Device Is Not Stolen

    The first and most important step is confirming the phone’s legitimacy. Buying a device that has been stolen can cause serious problems later. The original owner may have reported it to authorities, and the network may block it permanently.

    Ask for the bill

    Request the original purchase invoice from the seller. A genuine bill includes the store name, purchase date, serial number, and buyer details. This helps prove ownership.

    Match the IMEI number

    Use *#06# to display the IMEI. Match the number with the one printed:

    • On the box
    • Inside the SIM tray
    • On the back sticker (if available)

    If all numbers match, the device is most likely legitimate.

    Use IMEI checker websites

    Several online tools verify whether a phone is blacklisted. Technicians strongly recommend this step to check via IMEI number because it takes seconds and prevents major issues later.

    Even if you are being lured to a deal that’s simply a steal, buying a stolen phone is a strict ‘no-no’. After all, why get into a trouble with the authorities at a later stage for spending your money on a device that has been reported as lost or stolen or for buying a second hand phone that may have been misused in the past for execution of unlawful activities?

    2. Identify Fake Models and Replicas

    Replica models look almost identical to original ones. They often copy the body design, logo placement, and packaging. Many buyers confuse them with real devices.

    Check model details inside settings

    Go to Settings → About Phone and check:

    • Model number
    • RAM
    • Storage
    • Processor
    • OS version

    Compare these with the official specifications provided by the manufacturer.

    Fake phones often show unusual software menus, mismatched RAM, or outdated security patches.

    Examine build quality

    Original devices typically feel:

    • Solid
    • Balanced
    • Premium in finishing

    Clone phones may feel lighter, hollow, or poorly assembled.

    Visit a service centre if unsure

    Authorised centres can check the device in minutes using internal tools. This is one of the best ways to confirm authenticity when buying an expensive used model.

    3. Inspect the Physical Condition Thoroughly

    A visual inspection gives you a clear idea of how the phone was used. A well-maintained device usually lasts longer.

    Check the exterior

    Look for:

    • Dents on the corners
    • Hairline cracks
    • Scratches on the camera lens
    • Loose frame
    • Damaged buttons

    Some scratches are normal, but major cracks indicate heavy falls.

    Test the display

    Turn on the display and check:

    • Touch responsiveness
    • Dead pixels
    • Uneven colours
    • Brightness uniformity
    • Backlight bleeding

    Touchscreens should respond smoothly. Lag or unresponsive zones show internal damage.

    Identify water exposure

    Even splash-resistant smartphones can get damaged when fully exposed to water. Most devices have a Liquid Damage Indicator (LDI). If it has turned pink or red, the phone has been exposed to moisture. Apart from falls, water damage is a common injury that is associated with mobile phones.

    Check the:

    • Charging port
    • SIM tray
    • Speaker grills

    Battery check (for removable batteries)

    Remove the back cover if applicable and inspect:

    • Battery bulges
    • Corrosion marks
    • Colour changes on the internal sticker

    Bulging batteries are unsafe and should not be used.

    Camera inspection

    Open the camera app and test:

    • Autofocus
    • Low-light performance
    • Sharpness
    • Colour accuracy

    Foggy or blurred photos may indicate moisture damage inside the lens.

    4. Run Diagnostic Tests Using Service Codes

    Most smartphones include hidden diagnostic tools. These allow buyers to test sensors and internal components.

    What you can test

    Diagnostic menus help you verify:

    • Touch sensitivity
    • Speaker volume
    • Microphone input
    • Vibration motor
    • Sensors (gyroscope, proximity, light)
    • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
    • LED flash
    • Battery health
    • Camera functions

    Technicians use these codes daily to identify issues quickly. Check these diagnostic secret codes of Android phones to perform various tests.

    To learn a lot of service codes and other mobile repairing tips, you can join the mobile repairing course offered at Prizm Institute’s training center in Kurla.

    Why this step is important

    Many internal issues are not visible from the outside. A diagnostic test reveals things like:

    • Failing sensors
    • Speaker distortion
    • Faulty microphones
    • Battery degradation
    • Display colour problems

    This is one of the best ways to ensure the phone is in good working condition.

    5. Test Ports, Buttons, Battery and Accessories

    Ports and buttons receive continuous use, so they often wear out faster.

    Charging port test

    Insert a charger and observe:

    • Does it charge smoothly?
    • Does the cable feel loose?
    • Does the charging stop when moved slightly?

    Poor charging ports are costly to repair.

    Battery behaviour

    Check for:

    • Fast draining
    • Heating
    • Sudden percentage drops

    Many modern phones show battery health inside settings.

    Buttons and fingerprint sensor

    Check the:

    • Power button
    • Volume keys
    • Mute switch
    • Home/fingerprint sensor

    Each should respond instantly.

    Earphones and speakers

    Plug in earphones and play music. Check:

    • Left and right channels
    • Audio clarity
    • Volume

    Test the loudspeaker with calls and videos.

    USB data transfer

    Connect the device to a computer. Ensure the data transfer starts instantly.

    6. Compare Prices and Negotiate Smartly

    Price comparison is a crucial step before buying any used smartphone. You should check:

    • Online marketplaces
    • Local phone shops
    • Certified refurbished stores
    • Exchange offers
    • Official websites

    Many times, a brand-new budget device may offer better value than an older flagship model. You should also know how to select and buy a new smartphone in case you are planning to buy a new handset.

    Negotiate based on condition

    Use the results of your inspection:

    • If the battery is weak → ask for a lower price
    • If the screen has scratches → negotiate a discount
    • If accessories are missing → reduce the offer

    Refurbished models with warranty

    Certified sellers often test and repair devices before selling them. Many of these come with a short warranty period. This adds safety and reduces the risk of hidden repairs.

    A smart buyer isn’t one who buys new, but one who buys wisely.

    Additional Expert Tips for Buyers

    Check for account locks

    Ask the seller to remove:

    • Google account
    • Apple ID
    • Screen lock

    A locked device may become unusable.

    Reset the device before purchase

    Always format the device in front of you to ensure there is no hidden data or security lock.

    Test network and connectivity

    Insert your own SIM and check:

    • Call clarity
    • 4G/5G connectivity
    • Wi-Fi stability
    • GPS accuracy

    Check storage performance

    Install an app or take a few photos to test how the device handles simple tasks.

    Look for signs of repair

    If screws are replaced or the frame is uneven, the device may have been opened earlier. This may indicate past damage.

    Ask about repair history

    Some sellers reveal repairs, but many do not. A quick question helps you understand past issues.

    Smart buyers compare, check, and choose – not chase.

    Conclusion

    Buying a pre-owned smartphone can save money, reduce waste, and still give you great performance – if you inspect it properly. By checking authenticity, verifying condition, running diagnostics, testing hardware, and negotiating smartly, you can choose a reliable device that lasts long.

    A little caution today prevents expensive repairs tomorrow. With the steps in this guide, you can make an informed and confident decision when selecting a used phone.

  • 5 Rumors About Cell Phone Repairs That You Should Ignore

    5 Rumors About Cell Phone Repairs That You Should Ignore

    Many people nowadays fix their phones after searching the internet for solutions. Along with good working solutions there are plenty of incorrect suggestions written by novices which tend to misguide people. 

    Prevalent are some rumors or myths which are running through cell phone users. As rumors always tend to be rumors and not facts, it is better you read this and get to know what these rumors really are.

    1.  Cell phone repair costs too much

    Most people think that if they would need their cell phones to be repaired they will have to pay through their nose to get their handsets repaired. WRONG. Agreed that there do exist some black sheep in this repairing business but then there are many honest Abduls also in the same trade. Not everybody is ready to fleece their customers. Maybe you may have had some bad experience once or twice in life but you do will come across many good repair centers/technicians that are very reasonable in their repair services and charges.

    Sometimes some spares are not easily available locally and these have to be shipped from outside, so what you are paying is not just for service but also for the parts which are going to be used in your handset. So perish the thought that cell phone repair is far too expensive. You can also learn to fix cell phones through Prizm Institute’s cell phone repair book.

    2. If a third-party center repairs my phone, warranty will be void

    If your cell phone needs to be repaired and you have still some time left in your warranty period, you have a feeling that if you give the phone to some other service center for repairs other than the company’s authorized service center, your warranty on the handset will be void.

    But if your phone is water logged or the display is damaged or broken, you have already exhausted your warranty, because the warranty does not apply to the fore mentioned damages. Also if the problem is just related to software or settings and the phone can be fixed without dismantling it, then you do not lose the warranty.

    cell phone repair myths

    3. Your handset will never be the same after repair

    This is all hearsay. This is truly a rumor. It is in fact very much possible that if your handset has broken due to you accidentally dropping it, it can easily be fixed. This is because by dropping the handset you may have broken its LCD. There are least chances that the motherboard may have got damaged. So by just changing the LCD, your handset will be as good as new.

    One thing is that if your handset is old or a low sales model in your country, then there may be difficulty in getting the spares, but if you search the internet for it,  then you are bound to get it from somewhere and get it fixed.

    4. Water Damaged Phones can be fixed with rice

    One perception is that if your phone is waterlogged and if you bury your handset in dry uncooked rice then due to moisture absorbing property in rice, it absorbs all the moisture from the phone and the phone starts working again. This is not true. Rice does have affinity to absorb moisture as well as water but it absorbs the water that is on the outside.

    What about the water that has seeped inside the phone which cannot be dried unless you use a blower or a hair dryer or you just keep the phone for a couple of days without using it. So this is just a rumor that water logged phones can be fixed by burying it in rice.

    Read How to repair water damaged phones

    5. Every phone can be easily repaired

    Some people think that any handset can be easily repaired. They are to some extent right but not fully right because in any given man-made machine there comes a stage when it crosses the limit when it can be brought back to life. This also implies to mobile phones because there comes a stage when the handset has to be discarded because it is beyond repair or you will have to spend so much on it for repairs with which you can buy a better and new handset. You may consider this option if you are an antique lover and you can have this as a museum piece. Ha Ha Ha.

    Don’t be so quick to believe what you hear because lies spread quicker than the truth!

     – Anonymous

    You can also validate or debunk internet rumors and other stories of unknown or questionable origin at snopes.com

    Read 36 Cell Phone Repair Business Name Ideas

    There are many more myths and rumors prevalent among people about cell phone repair. Please let us know if there are more to add to the list in the comments below. Please also consider sharing this article among your friends.