Water damage is one of the most frustrating issues iPhone users face, even with advancements in water resistance technology. Many users believe their device is fully protected, but the truth is that no iPhone is completely immune to water damage, and one wrong move can lead to serious consequences. Whether it’s an accidental dip in the pool, a spilled drink, or a sudden rainstorm, water exposure can cause significant damage to the internal components of an iPhone.
But there is good news for iPhone users. The probability of getting a water damaged iPhone is far better compared to other brands such as Samsung Galaxy S series. At our service center, we specialize in iPhone repair and have a success rate of fixing up to 95% of water-damaged iPhones.
This blog post will explore whether water-damaged iPhones can be repaired, delving into the repair process, costs, and available options.
We will provide a clear and practical guide on what steps to take immediately after water exposure, what repair options are available, and when it might be better to consider a replacement instead. By understanding the effects of water on your iPhone and the realistic chances of successful repair, you can make informed decisions and take the right actions to potentially save your device.
How Water Damages an iPhone Internally
Water damage is more than just moisture inside your iPhone; it can lead to severe internal issues affecting various critical components. When water enters an iPhone, it has the potential to compromise its functionality in numerous ways, often causing irreversible damage. Here’s a detailed look at how water affects different internal components of an iPhone.
Effects of Water on Internal Components
Motherboard (Logic Board)
The motherboard is essentially the brain of your iPhone, responsible for coordinating all of its functions. When water comes into contact with the motherboard, it can create short circuits by bridging electrical pathways that should remain isolated. Corrosion can also start to form on the delicate metal connectors, leading to further dysfunction. Once corrosion begins, it can continue to spread, even if the device is dried out, eventually causing components on the motherboard to fail.
Connectors and Ports
iPhones have multiple connectors, including the Lightning port, headphone jack (in older models), and internal connectors linking the motherboard to other components. Water can infiltrate these areas and cause instant or delayed malfunctions. For example, the Lightning port may become corroded, leading to charging issues or failure to recognize accessories. These connectors are very susceptible to corrosion, which may prevent proper electrical contacts, rendering charging or data transfer impossible.
Battery
The battery is another component highly vulnerable to water damage. Exposure to water can lead to chemical reactions inside the battery that not only reduce its capacity but also make it unsafe. In severe cases, a water-damaged battery can swell, leak harmful chemicals, or even explode. Furthermore, short-circuits caused by water can lead to a sudden discharge or complete battery failure, leaving the phone unable to power on.
Screen (LCD or OLED Display)
The iPhone screen, whether LCD or OLED, is particularly sensitive to water damage. Water can seep in through the edges and create noticeable problems like discoloration, unresponsive touch functionality, or dark spots under the screen. This is often due to moisture penetrating the layers of the display, affecting its backlight or causing permanent stains between the layers. An affected screen might also start flickering or show horizontal or vertical lines, indicating that the internal connections have been damaged.
Internal Sensors and Camera Modules
Water damage can affect the internal sensors, such as the accelerometer, gyroscope, or proximity sensor, leading to erratic behavior or complete failure of these functionalities. The camera modules are also prone to water intrusion, which can result in blurry images or foggy lenses due to condensation. If water reaches the sensitive components within the camera, it may permanently affect autofocus or stabilization features, making it difficult to take clear pictures or videos.
Speakers and Microphone
The speakers and microphone are designed with small openings that make them particularly vulnerable to water damage. When water enters these components, it can cause muffled audio, reduced volume, or even complete audio failure. The moisture can lead to corrosion in the speaker coils or microphone elements, which compromises their performance. Even after the phone has dried, sound quality may remain degraded if corrosion has set in.
Symptoms of Water Damage
When an iPhone comes into contact with water, it may start displaying a range of symptoms—some of which are immediate, while others could take hours or even days to become noticeable. Recognizing these symptoms early can be crucial for minimizing damage and improving the chances of successful repair. Here are some of the most common immediate symptoms of water damage:
iPhone Won’t Turn On
One of the most alarming signs of water damage is when the iPhone does not turn on at all. This could be due to short circuits or damage to the internal components, like the battery or motherboard. If pressing the power button yields no response, it’s a strong indication that water may have compromised the power system.
Distorted or Unresponsive Screen
Water can cause the screen to appear distorted, with odd colors, flickering, or dark spots visible beneath the glass. In some cases, the screen may become entirely unresponsive to touch inputs, indicating damage to the digitizer, the component responsible for translating touch actions into commands.
Unresponsive Buttons
Physical buttons, like the volume buttons, power button, or the home button (in older models), may become unresponsive after water exposure. This occurs when water infiltrates and corrodes the internal mechanisms of these buttons, preventing them from making the necessary electrical contacts.
Overheating
If the iPhone begins to heat up excessively after water exposure, this is a clear sign of an internal short circuit. Overheating might result from water bridging connections within the motherboard, causing components to work improperly and generate more heat than usual.
Battery Issues
The battery may drain unusually quickly or refuse to charge altogether after water exposure. In some cases, users may see erratic battery percentage readings or sudden shutdowns, even if the battery indicator shows adequate power. These symptoms suggest that water has affected either the battery or its connections.
Muffled or Distorted Audio
If you notice that audio from the speakers is muffled, crackling, or completely absent, this could mean water has infiltrated the speaker grille. Water can dampen the speaker coils, leading to reduced volume or distorted sound until it dries—though corrosion could cause permanent damage.
Connectivity Issues
Water damage can also affect the Lightning port, resulting in charging issues or preventing data transfer when connected to a computer. In addition, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity might be impaired if the relevant components are compromised.
Camera Fogging
Moisture within the camera lenses can lead to foggy or blurred images. You might also notice condensation on the inside of the lenses, which is a sign that water has found its way into the camera module.
Water Damage Indicator (Liquid Damage Indicator, LDI)
Apple has built-in Liquid Damage Indicators (LDIs) within iPhones to make it easy to determine if water damage has occurred. The LDI is a small strip that changes color—typically from white or silver to red—when it comes into contact with moisture. On most iPhone models, the LDI can be found in the SIM card slot or near the charging port. Inspecting this indicator is a good first step in assessing whether the device has experienced water exposure.
Identifying these symptoms quickly can help mitigate further damage and increase the chances of saving your iPhone. If you notice any of these signs after water exposure, it is important to take immediate action, such as turning the device off and seeking professional help.
Water Resistant vs. Water Proof
With advancements in smartphone technology, many iPhone models now come with some level of water resistance. However, a common misconception is that water-resistant means waterproof. Understanding the distinction between these two terms is essential to prevent costly mistakes that could lead to serious damage to your iPhone.
Clarifying Misconceptions
Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof
Water-Resistant means that the device is designed to withstand some exposure to water but is not impervious to all forms of water ingress. Water resistance typically depends on rubber gaskets and seals, which can weaken over time or after physical impact.
Waterproof, on the other hand, implies that a device is entirely immune to water penetration under all conditions. However, no iPhone is considered completely waterproof; instead, they come with varying degrees of water resistance.
Understanding IP Ratings
The Ingress Protection (IP) rating is an industry standard that defines the level of protection a device has against dust and water. For instance:
- IP67: This rating means the device can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes. The number 6 indicates a high level of dust protection, while 7 represents a moderate level of water resistance.
- IP68: This rating is slightly better, allowing immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. However, the exact depth and time may vary slightly based on the manufacturer’s specifications.
It’s crucial to understand that these ratings are conducted under controlled conditions, and real-world scenarios can differ greatly. An IP68-rated iPhone may survive accidental drops in water, but it is not guaranteed to remain unaffected, especially under conditions outside the scope of the rating.
Scenarios Where Water Resistance Fails
Saltwater Exposure
Saltwater is highly corrosive, and iPhones are not designed to resist it effectively. Saltwater can cause rapid corrosion of internal components, and even brief exposure can render water-resistant seals ineffective. An IP rating does not account for saltwater exposure, which makes the iPhone particularly vulnerable if dropped into the ocean or any saltwater body.
High-Pressure Scenarios
The water resistance rating for an iPhone is valid under specific low-pressure conditions. If the device is exposed to high water pressure, such as being submerged in deep water or coming into contact with strong water jets, it can overwhelm the seals. This is why taking an iPhone into a swimming pool, especially to any significant depth, can be risky.
Worn-Out Seals
Water resistance in an iPhone is largely due to the rubber seals and adhesive that protect its internal components. These seals are not permanent—over time, they degrade and can become compromised. Physical impacts, such as drops or bumps, can also weaken the seals, making the device less water-resistant than it was when new. Users should be aware that their device’s water resistance decreases naturally over time.
Temperature Variations
Sudden changes in temperature can cause the rubber seals in an iPhone to expand or contract, leading to gaps that water can exploit. For example, taking an iPhone from a hot environment to a cold body of water can weaken the seals, allowing water to enter more easily.
Real-Life Usage vs. Testing Conditions
The tests for IP ratings are conducted in controlled environments—typically with still, fresh water, at specific depths and times. Real-life conditions are much more unpredictable. Factors such as the type of water (chlorine, soap, salt), motion (such as dropping a phone into a fast-moving stream), and the condition of the phone (previous damage or wear) can all compromise the phone’s resistance.
Water resistance in iPhones is a great feature to provide some protection against accidental spills or brief exposure to water, but it is by no means a guarantee of complete safety. Users should be cautious, understanding that there are limitations to this feature, and prolonged or challenging water exposure can still lead to damage.
What to Do Immediately After Water Damage
If your iPhone has been exposed to water, acting quickly can significantly improve the chances of saving it. Water damage can have a range of effects, and taking the right steps right away is essential. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do—and what to avoid—immediately after your iPhone gets wet.
Step-by-Step Actions to Take
Turn Off the Device
As soon as your iPhone gets wet, turn it off immediately. This helps prevent short circuits that could permanently damage internal components. If the phone is already off, do not attempt to turn it on.
Remove the iPhone from Water Quickly
If the iPhone is still in water, remove it as quickly as possible. Every second counts when it comes to reducing the extent of internal water exposure.
Remove Accessories and SIM Card
Take off any protective case, unplug any cables, and remove all accessories. These items can trap moisture, making it harder for the phone to dry. Remove the SIM card and tray to allow more airflow inside and reduce the chance of corrosion around the SIM contacts.
Gently Dry the Exterior
Use a soft, absorbent cloth to gently pat down the exterior of the iPhone. Focus on drying the screen, sides, and ports (e.g., Lightning port, speakers). Avoid excessive force to prevent water from being pushed further inside.
Position the iPhone to Drain
Place the iPhone in an upright position on a dry cloth or paper towel, ideally standing on its base. This helps any water inside to drain out of the openings naturally.
Let It Air Dry
Leave the iPhone in a dry area with good ventilation to allow it to air dry. If possible, place it near (but not directly on) a gentle heat source, like a dehumidifier or a fan, which can help speed up evaporation without exposing the device to high heat.
Use Desiccants
To further aid drying, place the iPhone in a container with silica gel packets if available. These packets are much more effective at absorbing moisture compared to rice and help remove water more efficiently.
What Not to Do
Do Not Use a Hair Dryer
A hair dryer, even on a cool setting, can push water deeper into the phone or damage sensitive components with excessive heat. Hot air can also melt adhesives that contribute to the iPhone’s water resistance.
Do Not Put the iPhone in Rice
Contrary to popular belief, placing an iPhone in rice is not an effective way to dry it. Rice is not very efficient at absorbing moisture, and grains or dust from the rice can get lodged in the phone’s ports or openings, causing additional issues.
Avoid Shaking or Blowing into Ports
Shaking or blowing into the phone can inadvertently push water further into internal components. This increases the risk of damage and can cause the water to reach areas that were previously unaffected.
Do Not Charge the Phone While Wet
Never plug in your iPhone while it is wet or damp. Charging while wet can cause electrical shorts, damaging both the battery and other internal components. Wait until you are confident that the device is completely dry before attempting to charge it.
Do Not Use Heaters or Microwaves
Exposing your iPhone to high heat, like from an oven, heater, or microwave, can irreversibly damage the internal components and cause the battery to swell or even explode. These methods are extremely dangerous and should never be attempted.
Taking the right actions immediately after water exposure is crucial to prevent further damage and improve the likelihood of recovery. The key is to act quickly but carefully—turn off the device, remove as much water as possible, and avoid common mistakes that could make the situation worse.
Assessing the Extent of Damage
After an iPhone has been exposed to water, it’s important to assess how much damage may have occurred. While some problems are immediately evident, others may require careful inspection. Here’s how you can conduct a basic assessment of your iPhone to gauge the extent of the water damage and determine whether professional help is required.
DIY Inspection Techniques
Check for Visible Water in Ports
Start by inspecting the Lightning port, speaker grilles, and SIM card slot for any visible signs of water. Use a flashlight to get a better view, and look for any moisture or pooling. If water is present, leave the phone upright to continue draining before attempting further inspection.
Look for Condensation Under the Camera Lens
Check both the front and rear camera lenses for any signs of fogging or condensation. Condensation is a clear indication that water has made its way into the internal components of the phone. If you notice any fogging, it’s a sign that drying efforts need to continue or that professional intervention may be needed.
Listen for Unusual Sounds
Once the iPhone has dried for a sufficient amount of time, try playing audio through the speakers. If you hear muffled or crackling sounds, it means moisture may still be trapped inside the speaker components. Unusual noises can also indicate damage to internal circuits.
Test Button Responsiveness
Press all the physical buttons on the iPhone, such as the power button, volume buttons, and (if applicable) the home button. If any of these buttons feel stuck, do not respond properly, or require extra pressure to function, it is likely that water has infiltrated their mechanisms.
Check the Screen for Discoloration
Power on the phone (only if you are sure it’s dry) and look for any discoloration, dark spots, or flickering on the screen. If you notice any unusual colors or display issues, it’s likely that water has affected the screen’s internal components.
Inspect the Liquid Damage Indicator (LDI)
Locate the Liquid Damage Indicator (LDI) inside the SIM card tray slot. The LDI is usually a small white or silver sticker that turns red or pink when exposed to moisture. If the LDI has changed color, it confirms that water has entered the device.
Signs That Professional Help is Needed
The Phone Doesn’t Power On After Drying
If, after ample drying time (at least 24-48 hours), the iPhone still does not power on, it’s time to seek professional help. This is an indication of internal component failure that will likely require specialized repair tools and expertise.
Overheating or Unusual Behavior
If the phone turns on but starts to overheat or behaves erratically—such as random shutdowns, unresponsive touchscreen, or continuous rebooting—this means that there could be internal shorts or damage to key components. Continued use in this state could cause further harm.
Persistent Display or Audio Issues
Any persistent issues with the screen (e.g., lines, discoloration, unresponsive touch) or audio problems (e.g., distorted sound, non-functioning speakers) indicate that internal circuits or components have been compromised. These problems typically require a professional technician to diagnose and repair.
Corrosion is Visible
If you notice any visible signs of corrosion around the charging port, SIM tray, or any other exposed connectors, it’s time to bring the device to a repair professional. Corrosion is an ongoing process that can continue to damage the phone even after it has dried out.
Battery Swelling
If the back of the iPhone appears to be bulging or if you notice the screen starting to lift away from the frame, this could indicate battery swelling, which is dangerous. Swollen batteries are a hazard and need to be addressed immediately by a professional.
Repair Options for a Water-Damaged iPhone
When faced with a water-damaged iPhone, understanding your repair options is crucial to make an informed decision. There are different routes you can take—either using Apple’s official repair services or opting for a third-party repair shop. Below, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of each option, as well as provide information on component-specific repairs and cost estimates.
Apple Repair Services vs. Third-Party Repair Shops
Apple Repair Services
Cost and Warranty Implications:
Going to an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP) is often seen as the most reliable option. However, Apple does not usually repair water-damaged phones—they will likely offer a device replacement instead. The cost for replacement can be substantial, particularly if your device is out of warranty. For models such as the iPhone 13, replacement costs can easily range from $400 to $600. If your iPhone is covered under AppleCare+, the cost will be significantly lower (usually between $99 to $129 for a replacement).
Availability and Quality:
Apple technicians are highly trained, and using Apple’s services ensures that only genuine Apple parts are used. Any repairs or replacements done by Apple will also maintain the warranty (if still active). However, appointments at Apple Stores can be difficult to get, especially in busy areas, and turnaround times can vary from a few days to a week.
Third-Party Repair Shops
Cost and Flexibility:
Reputable third-party repair shops can be a more affordable option for addressing water damage. Depending on the extent of damage, third-party repair costs can range from $100 to $300, depending on the components that need replacing. Many third-party shops will attempt to repair individual components, which can be significantly cheaper than replacing the entire device.
Warranty Considerations:
One downside of using third-party services is that any repairs conducted outside of Apple will void any remaining Apple warranty. This is particularly important if your device is still under warranty or AppleCare+. However, many reputable repair shops offer their own warranties (typically ranging from 30 days to 6 months) on parts and labor, providing some peace of mind.
Availability and Turnaround:
Third-party repair shops are often more accessible, with same-day repairs being common for minor issues. They also tend to have shorter waiting times compared to Apple Stores, making them a more convenient option if you need your phone back quickly.
Component-Specific Repairs
Battery
A water-damaged battery can often be replaced, and third-party shops generally offer this service at a reasonable cost (between $50 to $100). Apple may replace the entire device rather than just the battery, which can be significantly more expensive.
Screen
If water damage has affected the display, such as causing discoloration or making it unresponsive, the screen can usually be replaced. Third-party shops charge between $100 to $250 for screen replacements, while Apple charges significantly more—often $300 or higher, depending on the model.
Charging Port
The charging port is another component that can often be salvaged. If corrosion has not spread too far, it can be cleaned or replaced. Third-party shops typically charge between $70 and $120 for charging port repair or replacement.
Motherboard (Logic Board)
The motherboard is the most critical part of an iPhone, and unfortunately, it is the least likely to be successfully repaired if it has been damaged by water. Corrosion can affect multiple circuits and connections, making repair efforts complex and often unsuccessful. Replacing the logic board is usually cost-prohibitive, and in most cases, a replacement device is recommended.
Speakers and Microphone
Water damage to speakers or the microphone can often be fixed through cleaning or replacement. At Fixsquad, we don’t charge clients anything if the device gets fixed after cleaning.
Success Rate of Water-Damage Repairs
Water-damaged iPhones present unique challenges when it comes to repair. While there are success stories, it’s important to understand the various factors that influence the likelihood of a successful recovery. At Fixsquad, we pride ourselves on achieving a high success rate, successfully fixing nearly 95% of the water-damaged phones we handle. Here’s a deeper look at what influences repair success and what you can realistically expect.
Factors Influencing Repair Success
Type of Water (Salt vs. Fresh)
Fresh Water: Freshwater exposure, such as tap or rainwater, is generally less damaging compared to saltwater. This is because fresh water does not contain corrosive elements that aggressively attack internal components. The success rate of repairs is higher if the phone is exposed to fresh water, especially if action is taken quickly.
Saltwater: Saltwater, on the other hand, is far more harmful due to its corrosive nature. The salts present in seawater expedite the corrosion process, affecting the internal circuits, connectors, and motherboard. Even a brief exposure to saltwater can significantly reduce the chances of successful repair. At Fixsquad, we’ve found that prompt attention is critical when dealing with saltwater damage, and immediate efforts to clean and neutralize the salts can greatly improve outcomes.
Duration of Exposure
The amount of time that the iPhone spends submerged or exposed to water plays a crucial role in determining repair success. The longer the device remains in contact with water, the more likely it is that the internal components will be severely damaged. Quick retrieval and immediate action are key to increasing the chances of a successful repair. Ideally, removing the phone from water within seconds to minutes and beginning the drying process immediately can significantly boost the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Speed of Response
The speed with which you take action after exposure is also crucial. Turning off the device immediately, removing any accessories, and allowing the phone to dry without attempting to power it on all contribute to better repair outcomes. At Fixsquad, we’ve seen that iPhones brought in shortly after exposure have a much higher success rate compared to those that were left unattended for hours or days. Speed is truly of the essence when it comes to minimizing internal damage.
Realistic Expectations
Despite the many successful repairs, it is essential to have realistic expectations when it comes to water-damaged iPhones. Not all devices can be fully restored to their original state, and there are often lingering issues that may continue to affect the phone even after repairs. Here are some factors to consider:
Lingering Corrosion
Corrosion is a significant problem with water-damaged devices, especially if they have been exposed to saltwater. Even after thorough cleaning and repairs, microscopic corrosion may continue to spread over time, potentially causing issues down the line. This is why we recommend bringing your device to a professional like Fixsquad as soon as possible—early intervention can limit the spread of corrosion and improve long-term outcomes.
Battery Problems
The battery is often one of the first components to be affected by water damage. While it is usually possible to replace a damaged battery, the new battery may still be susceptible to issues if corrosion has spread to the connectors. In some cases, users may experience reduced battery life or even sudden shutdowns after a water damage repair.
Potential for Unstable Performance
Even if a water-damaged iPhone is repaired successfully, there is a possibility that it may not perform as reliably as before. Some users report occasional unresponsiveness of buttons, a slower touchscreen response, or inconsistent charging. While these issues can often be mitigated with additional repairs, they are a potential risk for any water-damaged device.
Motherboard Damage
The motherboard (logic board) is the heart of an iPhone, and any damage to it can be catastrophic. While we at Fixsquad have the tools and expertise to perform intricate board-level repairs, not all damage can be fixed completely. If the main circuits or chips are too severely corroded, a complete recovery might be impossible.
Our Approach at Fixsquad
At Fixsquad, our technicians are highly skilled in handling water-damaged iPhones, and our success rate is among the best in the industry. We are proud to report that we successfully fix around 95% of water-damaged phones that come to us. Our process includes careful disassembly, thorough cleaning of all components using specialized solutions, and a meticulous diagnostic procedure to identify and replace damaged parts. We understand how critical it is to recover your data and restore your device, and we make every effort to maximize the success of each repair.
While a high percentage of water-damaged iPhones can be repaired, it’s important to remember that each case is unique. By understanding the factors that influence repair outcomes and having realistic expectations, you can make informed decisions and take the best course of action for your device.
