iPhone Seller's Guide

How to Tell if Your iPhone Has Water Damage

Water damage is a common problem with cell phones that can cause a significant drop in value, and can often void any warranties you may have. Most mobile phones, including the iPhone, have some sort of water damage indicator.

The 3G, 3GS, 4, and 4S have indicators both in the headphone jack, and on the bottom of the dock-connector housing. The new iPhone 5 features one water damage indicator on the inside of the nano SIM card slot. This is located on the right side of the device.

The best way to look at the indicator is by aiming a flashlight or lighted magnifying glass into the jack. If the iPhone has been submerged in liquid, or has liquid damage, this circular indicator would be triggered and colored red or pink. If the indicator has been triggered, the repair is most likely not covered by the warranty.

For more at information see Apple's Support Site.

What to do if your iPhone gets wet

• Immediately turn off the phone. Do not turn it back on, charge it, or connect it to a computer or other device.
• Second, hand dry your phone as best you can with a soft cloth. Remove your SIM card and pat down any excess moisture and wipe out the headphone and charge ports.
• Next, quickly place the phone in a bag of uncooked rice and let it sit for 48 hours in a dry place. You can also add silica packages to the rice to help the absorption process. The rice will absorb any moisture that remains in the phone.
• After 48 hours have passed remove your phone, re-insert the SIM, and try turning it back on. With a little bit of luck you may have saved your iPhone from a watery fate.