Dropping an iPhone in water, spilling a drink, or using it in heavy rain is more common than most people admit — especially in Auckland’s wet, humid climate.
Unfortunately, liquid damage is not covered under Apple’s standard warranty, even on newer models with water resistance. Acting quickly and correctly can make the difference between a successful repair and permanent failure.
This guide explains what to do immediately, what not to do, and when to seek professional iPhone repair in Auckland.
First: Turn Your iPhone Off Immediately
If your iPhone has been exposed to liquid:
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Remove it from the liquid as quickly as possible
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Turn it off straight away
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Do not press buttons to “check if it still works”
Liquid itself isn’t always the main issue — electrical current flowing through wet components causes short circuits and corrosion. Keeping the phone powered off reduces the risk of further damage.
If the phone is already off, do not turn it back on.
Dry the Outside (But Avoid Heat)
Gently dry the exterior using:
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A clean towel or cloth
❌ Do not use:
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Hair dryers
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Heaters
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Microwaves
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Ovens or hot surfaces
Excessive heat can:
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Warp internal components
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Push moisture deeper into the phone
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Cause permanent battery or screen damage
Do NOT Rely on “DIY Fixes” (Rice, Silica, Air Drying)
Common myths include:
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Putting the iPhone in rice
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Leaving it near a fan
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Letting it “air dry” for days
These methods may absorb surface moisture, but they do not remove liquid trapped inside the phone or stop corrosion on the logic board. In many cases, they simply delay proper repair while damage continues internally.
Get Professional Help as Soon as Possible
For the best chance of saving a liquid-damaged iPhone:
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Take it to a professional repair centre within 24–48 hours
At Advanced Computers, liquid-damaged iPhones are assessed using professional cleaning methods designed to:
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Remove moisture safely
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Stop corrosion from spreading
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Restore electrical connections where possible
Early intervention significantly improves repair success rates and can prevent the need for costly full device replacement.
How to Check If Your iPhone Has Liquid Damage
Apple installs Liquid Contact Indicators (LCIs) in iPhones to show whether the device has been exposed to liquid.
How LCIs Work
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Normal colour: white or silver
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After liquid contact: solid red
LCIs are not triggered by normal humidity or temperature changes — only direct liquid exposure.
You may be able to see the LCI using:
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A torch
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A magnifying glass
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The SIM tray opening (on many models)
Once an LCI is triggered, Apple classifies the device as liquid damaged.
Important: Even “Water-Resistant” iPhones Can Fail
Newer iPhones are rated as water resistant — not waterproof.
Water resistance:
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Degrades over time
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Is affected by drops and wear
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Does not protect against salt water, sugary drinks, or chemicals
We frequently see liquid damage in relatively new devices, especially after exposure to rain, coffee, or condensation.
When to Book iPhone Repair in Auckland
You should seek professional iPhone repair if:
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The phone won’t turn on
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The screen flickers or shows lines
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Buttons or speakers stop working
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The phone overheats or drains battery rapidly
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Face ID, cameras, or charging stop functioning
Liquid damage symptoms can appear days or weeks later, even if the phone initially seems fine.
iPhone Liquid Damage Repair in Auckland
Advanced Computers provides professional iPhone repair services from our Penrose and North Shore (Rosedale) locations.
Our technicians assess liquid damage carefully and advise on the most cost-effective repair options before proceeding.
Final Advice
There is no guaranteed “home fix” for liquid-damaged iPhones. The safest approach is:
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Power off immediately
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Avoid heat and DIY remedies
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Seek professional assessment as soon as possible
Quick action gives your iPhone the best chance of recovery.