How To Avoid Buying A Refurbished Phone?

1. Before Buying

Buy from Trusted Sellers

Choose certified platforms like Apple Certified Refurbished or JD.com's Certified Used Phones. These sellers provide inspection reports and warranties.

Avoid sellers who refuse to let you test the phone or meet in person.

Keep Proof

Ask the seller to sign a "No Repairs" promise. If they lie, you can ask for a refund.

Save chat history and payment receipts. Add notes like "Guaranteed original, no repairs" in transactions.

 

2. After Buying

Monitor the Phone

For iPhones: Go to Settings > Privacy > Analytics to check for crash logs (like "Panic-full"). Too many crashes may mean faulty parts.

For Android: Use apps like AccuBattery to track battery health. If it drops below 80% capacity, the battery might be fake.

Watch for Overheating or Slowdowns

Use apps like CPU DasherX to test performance. If the phone gets too hot (over 45°C) or runs slower than expected, it could have cheap replacement parts.

 

3. Get Help if Scammed

Use Professional Services

Visit repair shops like those in Huaqiangbei (China) or mail your phone to services like ZealerFix for an official report.

Apple users can pay for a Genius Bar checkup (tell them it's a third-party repair first).

Know Your Rights

In many countries, sellers must tell you if a phone was repaired. If they hide this, you can demand a full refund or even sue for compensation.

Report dishonest sellers to the platform or local consumer protection agencies.

 

High-Risk Phones and Parts

 

Phones Often Targeted

iPhones (X/XS/11 series) – Fake Face ID parts are common.

Huawei Mate 30/P40 – Screens are often swapped with cheaper ones.

Samsung S20/S21 – Many fake "waterproof" refurbished models.

Dangerous Replacement Parts

Expanded Storage (e.g., changing 64GB to 256GB) – Causes crashes and data loss.

Fake Batteries – Swell or leak over time.

Cheap Face ID Modules – Won't work on newer iOS versions.

 

Final Tips

Always compare small details (like screws and screen color) and use software tools to check a used phone. Buy from sellers with good return policies, and avoid deals that seem too cheap to be true. If you're stuck with a repaired phone, collect evidence (photos, reports) and take legal action if needed. Stay smart, and you'll find a great used phone without the risks!