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
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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.
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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.
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Step 3. Insert the paper clip or SIM tool into the hole
This is the SIM holder exit button.
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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.
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Step 5. Glow into the SIM case
You can use a flashlight or carry your phone under a table lamp.
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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.
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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
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Step 1. Light into the headphone jack
One of the two liquid contact indicators on these models is located inside the headphone jack.
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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.
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Step 3. Put light into the charging port
The second indicator can be found on the bottom of the phone, inside the charging port.
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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.
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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.