How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Phone Screen

 Let’s be honest—cracked screens are a part of life for many of us. I’ve spent years fixing phone screens, and while some repairs are straightforward, others come with hidden challenges. One big factor that can drive up the cost? Water damage.

In this post, I’ll walk you through my experiences with screen repairs and explain why water damage can complicate things.

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Water Damage

Water Damage: The Hidden Cost of Screen Repairs

Cracked screens are bad enough on their own, but if water has seeped into the phone through the damaged screen, the repair costs can skyrocket. Here’s why:

1. Water Can Damage Key Components
   When water enters a phone, it doesn’t stop at the screen. It can reach sensitive components like the motherboard, battery, and charging port. I’ve seen cases where a seemingly minor crack turned into a major issue because the phone’s internals were fried by moisture.

2. Corrosion Complicates Repairs
   Even if the phone works initially, water exposure can cause corrosion over time. This means you might fix the screen only to face bigger issues later. In these cases, I often have to clean or replace additional parts, which adds to the cost.

3. It Requires Extra Diagnostics
   A phone with water damage needs a thorough diagnostic to ensure all components are working properly. This takes more time and effort, which can increase the labor cost.

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How Much Does It Cost?

For a phone with just a cracked screen, repairs typically range from $100 to $400, depending on the brand and model. But if water damage is involved, you could be looking at $300 to $600 or more, especially if multiple components need replacement.

Here’s a breakdown of what you might encounter:

• Screen Replacement Only: $100–$400.
• Water Damage Repair: Add $50–$200 for diagnostics, cleaning, or replacing corroded parts.
• Severe Damage: If the motherboard or other critical components are affected, the repair could cost as much as buying a new phone.

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What You Should Do If Your Phone Has Water Damage

If your phone has both a cracked screen and water damage, here’s my advice based on experience:

1. Turn It Off Immediately
   Don’t try to power it on or charge it—it might cause a short circuit.

2. Avoid DIY Repairs
   Water damage is tricky, and without proper tools, you could make things worse.

3. Get It Checked by a Professional
   A repair expert will clean the internal components, assess the damage, and give you a realistic quote. In my shop, I always advise clients to prioritize internal repairs before fixing the screen if water damage is present.

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Protecting Your Phone from Future Damage

After repairing your phone, take steps to protect it:

• Use a waterproof case to minimize water exposure.
• Apply a durable screen protector to prevent cracks.
• Be cautious around water—even "water-resistant" phones aren’t invincible.