How to Check if Your iPhone Has Water Damage
Straighten a paper clip or obtain a SIM removal tool., Find the SIM tray., Insert the paper clip or SIM tool into the pinhole., Apply pressure to pop the SIM tray out., Shine a light into the SIM tray., Look for a red water contact indicator...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Straighten a paper clip or obtain a SIM removal tool.
To find the water contact indicator on any iPhone 5, 6, or 7 model, you'll need to open the SIM tray. -
Step 2: Find the SIM tray.
You'll see the SIM tray along the right edge of the iPhone, with a small pinhole at the bottom. , This is the SIM tray's eject button. , With a little pressure, the SIM tray should pop straight out.
Make sure you don't misplace your SIM card while the tray is out. , You can use a flashlight or just hold the phone up to a desk lamp. , If the iPhone has contacted a liquid near your SIM tray, you'll see a red indicator in the center of the tray opening.
On iPhone 7 models, the indicator is a strip that takes about half the slot.
On iPhone 6 models, the indicator is near the center, offset just a little.
On iPhone 5 models, the indicator is round and in the center of the slot. , If you have water damage, you can try to repair it yourself, but chances are that you'll need a replacement.
Water damage is not covered under AppleCare, but if you have insurance through your carrier you may be able to get a replacement. -
Step 3: Insert the paper clip or SIM tool into the pinhole.
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Step 4: Apply pressure to pop the SIM tray out.
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Step 5: Shine a light into the SIM tray.
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Step 6: Look for a red water contact indicator.
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Step 7: Contact your carrier for replacement options.
Detailed Guide
To find the water contact indicator on any iPhone 5, 6, or 7 model, you'll need to open the SIM tray.
You'll see the SIM tray along the right edge of the iPhone, with a small pinhole at the bottom. , This is the SIM tray's eject button. , With a little pressure, the SIM tray should pop straight out.
Make sure you don't misplace your SIM card while the tray is out. , You can use a flashlight or just hold the phone up to a desk lamp. , If the iPhone has contacted a liquid near your SIM tray, you'll see a red indicator in the center of the tray opening.
On iPhone 7 models, the indicator is a strip that takes about half the slot.
On iPhone 6 models, the indicator is near the center, offset just a little.
On iPhone 5 models, the indicator is round and in the center of the slot. , If you have water damage, you can try to repair it yourself, but chances are that you'll need a replacement.
Water damage is not covered under AppleCare, but if you have insurance through your carrier you may be able to get a replacement.
About the Author
Gregory Stokes
Specializes in breaking down complex practical skills topics into simple steps.
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