Check for physical damage on your mobile device

Last Update date : Mar 14. 2024

All devices assessed to have physical damage or related causes will not be covered under warranty. However, we will be happy to repair or fix it, but note that it will be handled as an out-of-warranty repair and you will be charged for parts and labor. 

Phone repair

Device damage examples include, but are not limited to:

  • Cracked, black spot, or bleeding screen
  • Liquid damage
  • Missing screws or buttons
  • Damaged ports
  • Hardware modifications
  • Damaged back cover

Such issues can be considered mishandling and can be confirmed by a Samsung Service Center technician.

There are different types and intensities of damage that can result in different issues. Learn how to fix the damage by visiting your nearest Samsung Service Center. 

1. Cracked screen

When a direct, physical force is applied to a device, it is common for a device’s glass display screen to shatter or crack. To some degree, you can minimize damage with a case or a screen protector, but if the damage is present, a repair may be necessary – as soon as possible.

cracked screen

2. Black spot on the screen

A black spot that resembles an ink stain may appear on displays where the glass screen is not damaged, but the inner portion of the screen mechanisms have been damaged due to prolonged, continuous pressure. 

Black spot on the screen

3. Pixel bleeding

Pixel bleeding generally occurs due to a direct impact on your device. This may cause black or other colored lines in the pixel rows or columns to show up.

pixel bleeding on the screen

Method of Screen Replacement

Complete screen replacement

This repair method replaces the entire screen. This process takes place after a technician determines that a complete screen replacement is required. The total repair cost may depend on warranty, insurance, and the model of the device. 

Component Repair

Samsung has launched component repair  A component repair does not replace the whole screen, but only replaces parts as necessary, such as the display panel or tempered glass while reusing the front case. This lowers the cost of the repair when compared to a complete screen replacement. This type of repair is limited to certain models and may not be available depending on the severity of damage to the device.

Have you accidentally dropped your device in the water but can’t visit your local service center immediately? First, it is crucial to power off your device. This is due to the potential damage or corrosion that can occur in the internal mainboard from the heat that is generated by your device. 

Check 1. Turn off your device

If your device is waterlogged, make sure to turn it off. Moisture in the device can cause serious damage or corrosion to the mainboard. If the battery is removable, quickly remove the case, battery, USIM, etc. If your device is a newer model without removable batteries, immediately turn off your device.

Check 2. Remove moisture

After turning off your device, quickly dry off your phone. Remove as much moisture as possible from the battery, USIM, memory card, etc. using a dry towel or a clean cloth. Check also the areas where water can enter, such as the earphone jack or charging port. Use a cotton bud to ensure complete moisture removal.

Check 3. Remove foreign debris

If liquids such as drinks, seawater, or chlorinated pool water, etc. get in your device, it is extremely important to remove the salinity or impurities as soon as possible. This is because the foreign debris may speed up the corrosion of the mainboard. After turning off your device, take out any removable parts, soak in clean water for approximately 1~3 minute, then rinse. Afterward, follow Check 2 and thoroughly dry your device.

Check 4. Air dry

After removing the moisture or impurities, leave your device to dry in a well-ventilated area or in the shade with cool air (from a fan). Air drying is recommended for devices that are waterlogged. Please note that attempting to rapidly dry your device using a hair dryer or hot air may damage your device. 

Check 5. Check the waterproof rating

Most Galaxy models are dustproof and waterproof and feature the highest rating of IP68. Although the highest ratings support up to 30 minutes of waterproofing at a depth of 1.5m, it should not be used in deeper areas or areas with high pressure. Your device may become waterlogged if it is at a depth of 1.5m for longer than 30 minutes. 

If you want to check Samsung phones with an IP68 rating, you can check more at 'Water and Dust IP Ratings on Galaxy device' with Samsung Support.

Moisture may be present in your device even after a period of drying, so it is best not to power on your device until you visit a service center to have it checked. Please bring your waterlogged device to an Authorized Service Center as soon as possible.

  • Dustproof and waterproof support may differ based on the device model, so be sure to check the device’s user Manual.
  • An IP (Identification code for Protection) rating refers to the protection code of solids and liquids and is a grade established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) regarding the durability of electronic devices against external impact and foreign debris. The first digit represents the dustproof grade (0~6) and the second digit represents the waterproof grade (0~8). In general, a waterproof rating of 4 or higher is classified as water-resistant.

 Hardware modification means any repair or physical change made to the device's hardware not performed by the manufacturer or an authorized service center.

Back glass refers to a device’s back cover case that is made from glass. If the back cover case is damaged due to physical impact or a fall, it can be replaced at Samsung Authorized Service Center. The cost and method of repair may also depend on the model and whether there is internal damage that needs to be looked at in addition to replacing the external back cover case.

All Samsung products come with a manufacturer’s warranty.  If you need to make a warranty claim, it’s best to contact us, so we can help guide you through the process.

To confirm the length of your warranty for other products, it can be found on our Warranty Information page or register your product at At Your Service or Samsung Members.

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