A cracked or shattered phone screen is one of the most common and frustrating problems smartphone users face. While it may seem like the end of the world when your screen is cracked, the good news is that replacing it is possible—whether you choose to do it yourself or seek professional help. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps for replacing a cracked screen, covering both DIY methods and when it’s best to visit a professional repair service.
Signs Your Screen Needs Replacement
Before diving into the repair process, it’s important to recognize when you need to replace the screen. Here are a few signs that your screen needs to be replaced:
- Cracks or Shattered Glass: This is the most obvious indicator that your screen needs replacing.
- Unresponsive Touchscreen: If your screen is cracked but still responsive, it might still be usable. However, if it becomes unresponsive to touch, it’s time to replace it.
- Screen Flickering or Lines: Visible lines or flickering on the screen could be a sign of underlying damage that requires a screen replacement.
- Visible Distortion or Dead Pixels: If parts of your screen appear discolored, distorted, or have dead pixels, the screen is likely damaged and needs replacement.
Option 1: Replacing the Screen Yourself
If you’re tech-savvy and have experience with phone repairs, replacing the screen yourself can save you money. However, this option requires precision, patience, and the right tools. Here’s a general guide on how to replace a cracked screen on your smartphone:
What You’ll Need:
- A replacement screen (make sure it’s compatible with your phone model).
- A small screwdriver set (preferably with a plastic pry tool).
- A suction cup tool (to help remove the screen without damaging it).
- Tweezers for handling small parts.
- A heat gun or hairdryer (for loosening adhesive).
- A plastic card or similar tool for separating the screen.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Turn Off Your Phone
Before starting, power off your phone completely to avoid damaging internal components. - Remove the Back Cover (if applicable)
Some phones have removable back covers. Use a plastic prying tool to gently remove the back cover and reveal the screws. - Unscrew the Phone’s Housing
Using the appropriate screwdriver, remove the screws securing the phone’s housing. These are typically small screws along the edges of the phone. Keep them organized so you don’t lose any. - Use a Suction Cup Tool to Lift the Screen
Attach the suction cup tool to the screen and gently pull to lift it away from the body. If the screen doesn’t come off easily, use a heat gun or hairdryer to soften the adhesive. Heat the edges of the phone for 1–2 minutes before trying again. - Disconnect the Battery and Other Cables
Once the screen is lifted, you’ll need to disconnect the internal cables. This usually includes the battery connector and the screen’s digitizer (touch function). Use tweezers or a plastic pry tool to gently disconnect these. - Remove the Cracked Screen
After disconnecting the cables, carefully remove the cracked screen. Be mindful of any fragile parts, such as the front camera, speaker, or other internal components. - Install the New Screen
Place the new screen into position and reconnect the internal cables and battery. Make sure the connections are secure. - Reassemble the Phone
Once the new screen is in place, reassemble the phone by securing the screws, replacing the back cover, and ensuring everything fits tightly. - Test the New Screen
Power the phone back on and test the new screen. Ensure that the touch response is working, there are no lines or flickering, and the display is clear.
Important Tips for DIY Screen Replacement:
- Always ensure you are using high-quality replacement parts. Cheap or incompatible screens may not work properly or could cause further damage.
- Be very careful when handling the internal components of your phone, as they are delicate and can be easily damaged.
- If you’re not confident in your repair skills, consider watching video tutorials specific to your phone model for better guidance.
Option 2: Taking Your Phone to a Professional Repair Service
If you don’t have the tools or experience to replace the screen yourself, it’s often best to take your phone to a professional repair service. Here’s what you should expect:
1. Visit a Certified Repair Shop or Authorized Service Center
Most phone manufacturers (such as Apple, Samsung, and Google) have authorized service centers where they perform repairs with genuine parts. However, third-party repair shops can often provide repairs at a lower cost.
2. Get a Quote and Time Estimate
When you visit a repair shop, the technician will assess the damage and provide a quote for the replacement. They will also give you an estimated time for when the phone will be ready for pickup.
3. Check the Warranty
Before proceeding with any repair, check if your phone is under warranty. If it is, the manufacturer may cover the repair, especially if it’s a hardware issue like a cracked screen. Some warranties may not cover accidental damage, but it’s worth checking.
4. Wait for the Repair
Depending on the shop and the extent of the damage, repairs can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Once the screen is replaced, the technician will test it to ensure it functions properly.
5. Pick Up Your Phone
After the repair is completed, you can pick up your phone and enjoy a brand-new screen. Make sure to check the quality of the replacement, including the touch response and display, before leaving the store.
Cost of Screen Replacement
The cost of replacing a cracked screen can vary depending on the brand and model of your phone. Generally:
- For budget smartphones, screen replacement may cost anywhere between £50–£150.
- For mid-range smartphones, expect to pay between £150–£300.
- For premium models (e.g., iPhones, Samsung Galaxy S series), the cost can range from £300 to £500 or more.
Additionally, if you opt for professional repairs, using original parts from the manufacturer may cost more than using third-party replacement screens.
When to Consider a New Phone Instead of Repairing the Screen
While replacing a cracked screen can breathe new life into your phone, there are times when it may be more cost-effective to replace the device entirely:
- The cost of repair exceeds the value of the phone: If the repair cost is close to the price of a new device, upgrading may be a better option.
- Your phone is outdated: If your phone is old and no longer receiving software updates, replacing the screen may not be worth the investment.
Conclusion
Replacing a cracked screen can be a straightforward process if done correctly, but it requires patience, the right tools, and careful handling of your device. If you’re up for the challenge, DIY repairs can save you money, but if you prefer convenience and a guaranteed quality repair, professional services are always a great option. In either case, taking steps to protect your phone with a screen protector and a sturdy case can help you avoid future screen damage.
FAQ’s
Yes, with the right tools and patience, you can replace the cracked screen yourself. However, it’s a delicate process.
The cost can range from £50 for budget phones to £500 for high-end models like iPhones, depending on the phone’s brand and model.
You’ll need a small screwdriver set, suction cup tool, heat gun, tweezers, plastic pry tools, and a replacement screen.
DIY screen replacement can take a few hours. Professional repair services may take a few hours to a day, depending on the phone.
If the repair cost is less than half the price of a new phone, it’s worth fixing the screen. Otherwise, consider upgrading.
