This wikiHow teaches you how to check if your iPhone has water damage by looking for a specific indicator on the device.
Step
Method 1 of 2: iPhone 5, 6, and 7. models
Step 1. Straighten the paper clip or look for a SIM card pry tool
To find the water contact indicator on an iPhone 5, 6, or 7 model, you need to open the SIM card case.
Step 2. Locate the SIM card holder
You'll see the SIM card holder along the right edge of the iPhone, with a small hole at the bottom.
Step 3. Insert the paper clip or SIM tool into the hole
This is the SIM holder exit button.
Step 4. Apply pressure so that the SIM tray pops out
With a little pressure, the SIM tray will pop right out. Make sure you don't lose the card when you remove the SIM tray.
Step 5. Glow into the SIM case
You can use a flashlight or carry your phone under a table lamp.
Step 6. Look for the red contact indicator with water
If your iPhone comes into contact with liquid near the SIM holder, you'll see a red indicator in the center of the holder's hole.
- On iPhone 7 models, the indicator is a strip that fills about half the slot.
- On iPhone 6 models, the indicator is close to the center but not exactly centered.
- On iPhone 5 models, the indicator is round and in the center of the latch.
Step 7. Find out the replacement options
If your iPhone is water damaged, you can try to repair it yourself, but you'll most likely need a replacement. Water damage is not covered under warranty, but if you get insurance from an authorized reseller, you may be able to get a replacement.
Method 2 of 2: iPhone 3GS, 4, and 4S models
Step 1. Light into the headphone jack
One of the two liquid contact indicators on these models is located inside the headphone jack.
Step 2. Look for the red liquid contact indicator
If you see a red line when you peek into the hole, it means that the liquid contact indicator has been exposed.
Step 3. Put light into the charging port
The second indicator can be found on the bottom of the phone, inside the charging port.
Step 4. Look for the red liquid contact indicator
If the indicator hits the water, you'll see a small red line in the center of the port.
Step 5. Find out the replacement options
If the indicator shows contact with water, you can try to fix it yourself. However, you will most likely need a replacement, especially if the water has been settling for some time.
Water damage is not covered under warranty, but you may be able to get a replacement from an authorized reseller
Tips
- Liquid Contact Indicator does not turn red quickly. If you find a red indicator on your iPhone, it means that the device has probably been submerged in or exposed to water or other liquid form for some time.
- Take your iPhone to the nearest service center after detecting any water damage to prevent serious problems.
