We have become so dependent on our cell phones that if something goes wrong with our device, we panic. The good news is a cell phone repair service center is never too far away. However, you need to be careful of the service you choose to ensure your phone is handled properly.
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Your First Recourse : your first option should be to bring the phone back to where you bought it. If there is still a warranty and the cause of damage is covered, your device will be repaired for free. If the warranty is up and you want to look for another repair center, it must be reputable.
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Warranty Length : the minimum warranty length offered in most mobile device repair shops is 30 days, with the maximum at six months. Bear in mind that warranty length can vary per shop and dependent on the extent of the damage.
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Inquire about the Warranty Coverage : most of the time the coverage includes service and parts, so if the damage falls under either category you will be covered. However, the coverage almost always never includes accidental dropping. This is usually the case with manufacturers’ warranties and the same rule applies to repair shop warranties.
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Ask about Any Discounts : if the repair shop has a website, check there first for any discounts or promos they are offering. Competition among these services is tight so don’t be surprised if they frequently offer discounts. However you need to be aware of the difference between low price and discounts. It is great to have a repair job done cheaply, but be wary if it is too cheap because it could mean the service wasn’t done right.
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Privacy Protection Concerns : this is one of the most important factors you need to consider. You store personal data on your phone, and the repair shop must provide details to ensure they are protected at all times during the repair process. Before turning over your phone, review the shop’s repair policies and practices and if you are comfortable with them.
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Ask about the Suppliers and Vendors : if your damaged phone requires replacing some parts, you should inquire where the shop gets their parts. Some components are OEM, others are aftermarket, and others are bought by repair shops from wholesale distributors or other companies. You also have to make sure the shop has a good relationship with vendors: with a solid relationship you can get an extended warranty on your phone.
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What Happens if Your Phone Suffers More Damage : if the repair shop is honest, they will ask you to sign a waiver that contains details of their policies including their accountability in case your phone suffers more damage. If there is no waiver or they don’t provide details about their responsibility, look for another repair shop that is more forthcoming.
As you can see, the best way to approach these services is to ask questions, as that will provide you with the information you need to know.