Yes, it is possible to fix an iPhone screen that is showing lines or is otherwise damaged. There are a few different options for repairing an iPhone screen depending on the extent of the damage and your comfort level doing the repair yourself.
What causes lines or visual defects on an iPhone screen?
There are a few common causes of lines or weird visual issues showing up on an iPhone’s screen:
- Damaged LCD – If the LCD panel inside the iPhone is damaged, either from dropping the phone or from pressure on the screen, it can cause lines, discoloration, or black/blurry spots.
- Faulty screen cable – The thin cable that connects the iPhone’s screen to the logic board can become loose or damaged, causing lines or screen artifacts.
- Digitizer damage – The digitizer is the touch-sensitive layer on top of the LCD. If it gets damaged, it can cause lines on the screen.
- GPU/logic board issues – In some cases, lines or screen problems may be due to an issue with the phone’s logic board or GPU rather than the screen itself.
Often visual screen defects will start small but get progressively worse over time. The sooner you can repair the issue, the better.
Should you repair the screen or replace the whole phone?
If your iPhone is still relatively new and you want to save money, repairing just the screen is a good option. Screen repairs and replacements are significantly cheaper than replacing the whole phone.
However, if the phone is very old and slowing down, or has other issues like battery life problems, it may make more sense to put that repair money towards a replacement iPhone altogether.
Here are a few factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your iPhone:
- Age of the iPhone – Older models like the iPhone 6 and earlier often aren’t worth the cost of a screen repair.
- Other issues – If you’re having multiple issues like battery life, performance, etc. it may be time for an upgrade.
- Cost of screen repair vs. replacement iPhone – Compare the cost to see which makes more financial sense.
- Availability of parts – Getting quality replacement parts for really old iPhone models can be tricky.
- Your budget – Repairing generally costs significantly less than a new iPhone.
In general, if your iPhone is less than 2 years old, a screen repair is probably worth considering. Any older than that, it may be better to put the money towards a newer device.
DIY iPhone screen repair options
Many iPhone screen issues like cracked glass or unresponsive touch can be fixed with DIY repair kits ordered online. Here are a few things to know about DIY iPhone screen repair:
- Difficulty level – DIY iPhone repair requires very delicate work. You’ll need steady hands, good fine motor skills, and patience.
- Risk of damage – If you don’t follow instructions carefully, you can damage cables and other components.
- Special tools – You’ll likely need special prying tools, suction cups, and screwdriver bits.
- Adhesive issues – Getting the old screen off and new screen sticky adhesive aligned can be tricky.
- Inconsistent part quality – Replacement screens and parts vary widely in quality.
If you decide to do a DIY iPhone screen replacement, be sure to watch tutorial videos first and order a screen repair kit that includes all the necessary tools and components.
DIY iPhone screen repair kits
Here are a few reputable sources for DIY iPhone screen repair kits:
- iFixit – Offers screen repair kits for all iPhone models with detailed, step-by-step guides.
- Amazon – A wide range of iPhone screen repair kits are sold here. Read reviews carefully to assess quality.
- eBay – Individual components like replacement LCDs and digitizers can be found here, often at cheap prices.
- Mobile Defenders – Specializes in iPhone parts, with full screen replacement kits available.
- Repairs Universe – Sells kits for the latest iPhones as well as older generations.
Be sure to select the exact repair kit for your specific iPhone model so all of the included tools and parts will fit correctly.
Professional iPhone screen repair
For those who don’t feel comfortable doing DIY iPhone repairs, taking your phone to a repair shop is the easiest solution. Benefits of professional iPhone screen repair include:
- Expert technicians – Avoid botched DIY errors and get your repair done right the first time.
- Quality parts – Repair shops have access to high-quality OEM screens and components.
- Warranty on work – Most offer warranties on screen repairs, often 90 days or longer.
- All tools included – Specialized tools needed for iPhone repair won’t come out of your pocket.
- Fast service – Often same day or next day, while you wait in many cases.
Two options for professional iPhone screen repair are local repair shops and mail-in services.
Local iPhone repair shops
Finding a quality local iPhone repair shop involves some research, as the level of service and parts quality can vary greatly. Here are a few tips for finding a good local iPhone screen repair shop:
- Check reviews on Google, Yelp, etc. Look for consistent positive feedback.
- Call around for quotes and compare pricing.
- Ask about their parts sourcing and warranties.
- See if they offer free diagnostics to confirm the problem.
- Find out how long repairs typically take and if expedited options are available.
Well-reviewed local iPhone repair shops often provide the fastest service, sometimes even while you wait. And you can speak directly with the technicians doing the work on your phone.
Mail-in iPhone screen repair
Another convenient option is to mail your iPhone to a repair company. Advantages of mail-in iPhone screen repair include:
- Reputable national brands to choose from.
- Techs experienced with high iPhone repair volume.
- Convenient door-to-door service.
- Guaranteed fast repair turnaround time.
- Warranty on workmanship.
- Customer service team available for questions.
Two of the most popular mail-in iPhone screen repair options are:
- uBreakiFix – Offers quick mail-in service starting at $129.95 for iPhone 6 and newer models.
- CPR Cell Phone Repair – Mail-in screen replacement service starting at $114.99.
To use a mail-in service, you’ll need to request a prepaid shipping kit, then send your iPhone off for repair. It will be shipped back to your door once complete.
Finding iPhone screen replacement parts
One key to a successful DIY iPhone screen repair is finding a high-quality replacement LCD and digitizer screen assembly. Here are a few tips for sourcing iPhone replacement screens:
- Shop around and compare prices – Prices can range from $50 to over $150 for the same part.
- Read customer reviews – This can reveal issues with fit, picture quality, touch response, etc.
- Buy an LCD + digitizer pre-assembly – This avoids any difficulty assembling them.
- Confirm compatibility with your iPhone model – The part number should match your exact iPhone.
- Choose an OEM part if possible – While more expensive, these Apple original screens offer the highest quality.
Some good sources for replacement iPhone screens include Mobile Defenders, Repairs Universe, and Amazon from marketplace sellers with strong reviews. iFixit also sells very high-quality iPhone screens.
Does Apple offer iPhone screen repair?
Yes, you can get iPhone screen repair done at Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers. Here are a few things to know about Apple iPhone screen repair:
- Expensive out-of-warranty cost – Apple charges $199 to $329+ depending on the iPhone model.
- Quality OEM parts – Genuine Apple screens are used.
- Techs trained by Apple – Expert service and repairs.
- Limited repsair options – Apple Stores will only do full screen replacements, not component-level fixes.
- Repair timeline – Can take 3-5 business days on average.
Going through Apple is advisable if your iPhone is still under warranty, as repairs will be free. Out-of-warranty, the cost is often considerably more than high-quality third-party iPhone screen repair options.
Preventing future iPhone screen damage
No matter how careful you try to be, accidents happen and iPhone screens get damaged. However, you can take a few preventative steps to minimize the chance of cracking or breaking your iPhone’s screen:
- Use a protective case – Cases with raised edges help protect the screen from drops at angles.
- Install a screen protector – Glass or high-quality plastic screen protectors prevent scratching and absorb impact.
- Avoid excessive pressure on the screen – Don’t sit or put heavy objects on your iPhone.
- Be mindful where you place your phone – Hard surfaces like tile and concrete are more likely to crack the screen if dropped.
- Never use cleaning products on the screen – Many chemicals can damage the oleophobic anti-fingerprint coating.
Cases with built-in screen protectors offer the most comprehensive protection for your iPhone’s display. And being mindful of how you handle and place your phone can significantly reduce the chances of accidental screen damage.
Conclusion
It is possible to successfully fix an iPhone with screen lines or other visual defects. For minor screen issues, DIY screen repair kits provide a low-cost option if you have the technical skill and patience to complete the delicate repair process. For fast, reliable iPhone screen fixes, professional repair shops and services offer quality screen replacements without the hassle and risk of DIY repairs. With the right high-quality replacement part and proper installation, an experienced technician can often restore an iPhone with a damaged screen to like-new condition.
