Cell phone repair is surrounded by false information. Figuring out warranties and prices for repairs is tricky enough, so it is important not to believe the common myths and half-truths about mobile phone repair. Here are five misconceptions to avoid.
- It will void your warranty.
This “myth” is actually partially true. While most devices are covered by a one-year manufacturer’s warranty which only cover defects in software or construction, if the customer breaks the phone then the warranty is voided immediately. The warranty was voided once the phone was broken though, so repairing will not affect the warranty. However, if the problem is not your fault but the manufacturer’s, then you may be able to make use of the warranty instead of paying for mobile phone repair out of pocket. - You’ll just break the phone even more.
Many phone shops are very knowledgeable about their work. In fact, it is easy to find a reputable phone repair shop. Keep an eye out for their repair warranty information, check their online presence, and see if they are open about pricing. If you don’t trust putting your phone in the hands of someone else, there are plenty of guide videos on the internet that safely take you through basic phone repairs yourself. - Repair isn’t worth the money, just replace your phone.
People who claim this about phone repair are usually referring to the prices listed by phone retailers. Why pay over $100 for a phone repair when the phone only costs $120 in the store? The reason this type of thinking is misleading is because those low prices for the phone are often relying on the stipulation that you will buy a phone plan along with the phone. The whole price of the phone may really be closer to $500 or $600. With this taken into consideration, $100 doesn’t seem too bad for a quick repair. Often, something like an iPhone screen repair will cost anywhere from $80 to $115 for labor and parts, which is much cheaper than replacing the entire phone. - Repairing a phone takes forever.
I know this is incorrect from personal experience. I had a broken display on my basic phone. When I took it into a mobile phone repair shop, I had to wait for a part to be ordered (I didn’t have a very common phone). Once the part came in I waited for about 10 minutes for the repair to be completed, and during that time the repairman took a moment to talk to another customer.Time really depends on the repair you need, but for most mobile phone repairs, the time will range from 10 minutes to 2 days. - All repair shops are certified.
Thinking that every technician with a repair shop is certified and trustworthy can lead to further damage. Many repair shops are run by self-taught technicians, meaning that they simply got the hang of repair and now run their own shop. Reputable shops will be open about their pricing policies and any warranties they may offer. Don’t be drawn in by good deals; as mentioned previously, a screen repair may cost anywhere from $80 to $115, so if a shop is offering it for $35 to $50 then they are most likely using low-grade parts that will only lead to more problems down the road. Check common prices for your repair and compare it to the prices you are being offered.
