When faced with water damage, a common challenge in iPhone repair, this guide provides a thorough set of fixes designed to help users effectively respond to and resolve the issue.
1. Quickly remove the device from the water and power it off:
- Remove your iPhone from water as quickly as you can to ensure safety. Minimise contact time with water to minimise damage.
- If iPhone has been switched off, there is no need to attempt to switch it on; if it is still on, switch it off immediately to prevent further damage.
2. Check external ports and connections:
- Carefully inspect your phone's external ports such as the charging port, headphone jack, and SIM card slot for corrosion. If these ports need to be cleaned, use alcohol with an anti-static brush. If it is difficult to clean them by yourself, it is recommended to replace the ports or components.
- Pay special attention to cable ends, battery contacts, connectors, plug pins, and fuses, as these parts are prone to corrosion due to water and are common areas that cause mobile phone malfunctions. Also, test all buttons and functions for proper operation.
3. Check the SIM card tray:
- Use a special tool (e.g. SIM card ejector or paper clip) to carefully insert it into the opening of the SIM card tray and gently push the tray to eject it. Afterwards, pull it out completely and observe if any of the LCI markings turn red. This helps to determine partial water ingress.
4. Detect the battery condition:
- As water damage may cause the iPhone battery to short-circuit, which in turn can lead to fire or chemical hazards. Always take precautionary measures if you notice any damage or unusual swelling of the battery.
- Avoid touching the damaged battery directly and place it in a fireproof container for disposal at a professional recycling centre.
5. Check the logic board:
- Carefully inspect the logic board and its connecting parts for signs of corrosion. Pay particular attention to the areas marked red by the LCI, which may be a sign of corrosion or damage.
- After removing the logic board, if you find any residual corrosion or material on other parts, you should also follow the relevant guidelines for removal.
- Finally, use a soft brush to gently remove corrosion and water stains from the logic board and other components. If the problem remains unresolved, damage to components under the EMI shield may be involved, in which case the shield should be removed and the board cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner.
