How to Manage Cell Phone Repair and Replacement Costs
We’ve all fallen victim to the dreaded cracked screen, drained battery, or water-logged cell phone. Some of the most common cell phone concerns are easy enough to live with. They’re inconvenient, but if the phone still works and we can save some money, we often do.
But what can be done when using the rice trick or swapping in a new battery isn’t enough? Read on for a breakdown of common repair costs, tricks for managing cell phone repairs, and tips for saving when your cell phone has to be replaced.
What is the Average Cost to Replace a Phone Screen?
A cracked cell phone screen is a common problem. Small cracks in the corners that don’t interfere with the screen’s function are easy enough to ignore. But what does it cost when the whole screen cracks and you need to replace it with a new one?
Without a warranty or repair plan, the average cost to replace a cracked phone screen out of pocket is $277. However, the cost can range from under $100 to over $300, depending on the phone model and additional details.
According to Consumer Reports, a cracked screen is the most common cell phone repair. Dead batteries, charge port issues, water damage, and broken headphone jacks also made it to the top of the list.
How Can I Save on Cell Phone Repairs and Replacements?
Whether you’re fixing a broken power button or replacing a smashed screen, unexpected cell phone repairs can run us hundreds of dollars. Here are some of the best ways to save on repairs and replacements so they don’t run you off course:
- Buy phones with provider warranties or repair protection plans.
- Lock in a repair protection plan elsewhere if your service provider doesn’t offer them.
- Always use protective accessories.
- Choose a reputable repair service.
- Wait for a good deal.
Cell Phone Provider Warranties and Repair Protection Plans
Before you buy a new phone, always look at the fine print. Depending on the service provider and the cell phone model, your new phone may come with a warranty or repair protection plan. Many newer phones come with warranties that protect against certain issues, including manufacturer defects.
Repair protection plans, on the other hand, cover a wider range of problems. That wider coverage often comes with additional monthly charges. Again depending on the provider and the phone model, that monthly charge can vary greatly, so you’ll have to evaluate the costs.
A repair plan that costs $5 per month and covers everything, including cracked screens, may be worth the money. A repair plan that doesn’t cover cracked screens or costs upwards of $50 per month may not be worth it long-term.
Alternative Options for Cell Phone Repair Protection Plans
If your cell service provider doesn’t offer a repair protection plan, consider looking into external coverage. Companies like Syska, OneAssist, and SquareTrade offer protection plans for cell phones, laptops, and other electronics for a predetermined monthly fee.
Protective Accessories
The best way to manage cell phone repair and replacement costs is to first do what you can to avoid them. Always use screen protectors, phone cases that wrap around the edges, and other protective accessories.
Be sure to check the reviews before buying any new cell phone accessories, too. Some are made sturdier than others, and the last thing you want is to buy a case only to learn later that the screen can still shatter while inside of it.
Reputable Cell Phone Repair Services
Most, if not all, cell phone service providers also offer repair services when their clients break their screens or their batteries stop working. But going to the service provider for repairs could end up costing you significantly more than it would if you had gotten the repairs elsewhere.
It’s similar to when they tell you not to take your car to the dealership for an oil change. Instead of instantly going back to your service provider for repairs, call them for a quote first. Then, call two other reputable repair companies for quotes, too.
If you are a customer of a budget-friendly cell phone provider, you may be pleasantly surprised by the price. But this seems to be the exception rather than the rule. Once you have your three quotes, you’ll know how to get your phone fixed while keeping your expenses down. Be sure to check the reviews for them, too.
The Best Times to Get a Good Deal on a New Phone
Like other costly purchases, a bit of strategy can help you save up to 50% on your new phone. Keep an eye out for new models, as the previous ones tend to go on sale right before the new releases. Black Friday and Cyber Monday also provide significant discounts on phones and other electronics if you can wait it out a bit.
