If you have dropped your phone in water you can almost be certain there is internal damage. But what if you just dropped it on the floor?
There are several indicators that your phone has been internally damaged. If you notice any changes to how your phone typically operates that is the easiest way to tell. Other indicators include apps crashing, battery running down faster than it normally does, your camera is taking forever and the phone is just generally running way slower than usual. If your phone is automatically shutting down and rebooting this is a big warning sign that you may have internal phone damage. Screen discoloration or brightness changes as well as a slow or unresponsive touchscreen and pixel dead spots are also indicators. Your phone may not be charging or it may also overheat, even when you aren’t using it.
These are all key factors telling you something is wrong and you need to have your phone looked at by either the manufacturer or a phone repair shop. Sometimes your warranty may cover certain damages so it’s important to have a look at the warranty booklet and the date it is in effect. Keep in mind, if you try out some DIY fixes you run the risk of voiding your warranty, so it’s better to take it in to an expert.
How Long Will My Phone Last if the Screen is Cracked?
Depending on the size of the crack and if it’s affecting the touch sensitivity and pixels you can sometimes go a month or so before needing to replace the screen. You have options when it comes to screen replacement. There are DIY kits that cost around $20 allowing you to change out your screen yourself. It is highly recommended that you take it to a phone repair shop or to the store you purchased it from, such as the Apple Store. While this option costs more, they are better equipped and have the expertise to replace the screen properly without causing further damage. Furthermore, cracks in your screen can also cut your fingers, so it’s best to get it fixed sooner rather than later.
What do I do if the Back of my Phone has Cracked?
If you’ve cracked the glass on the back of your phone, it’s a pretty easy fix. If the damage is not affecting the functioning of your phone, try getting a good, solid phone case to hold it together. This helps to stop the spread of the crack and protects your hands from getting cut. If the damage is really bad and affecting phone function, you will likely have to take it in to get it professionally repaired. This is sometimes covered by your warranty.
Can you Really Use Baking Soda or Toothpaste to Fix a Phone Screen?
There are many DIY “Hacks” out there to fix a touchscreen. Do they work? Not really. It may help make the screen look shinier because it makes it really clean, but it often does more harm than good. You’re essentially rubbing off the screen’s protective coating.
The same goes for glass buffing products, turtle wax, coconut oil and all the other “home fixes” for a scratched screen. If you really must use a scratch remover try using a screen protector instead. It will make it a little shinier and protect it from further damage. If the damage is severe, you may have to take it in to be replaced.