Today we'll be tackling an all-too-common issue: water-damaged iPhone 12. It's one of the many problems we encounter in the device repair industry, and I'm eager to walk you through the steps to effectively solve it and explain the pricing involved.

The process starts by removing two Torx screws at the bottom of any iPhone model, which we do using a precision screwdriver from the well-known brand, Quianli. We then heat the chassis edges to 150°C using a hot air station, softening the adhesive securing the screen, making it easier to lift.


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We use a suction cup to create a small gap and then a super-fine pick to carefully raise the screen. A more durable plastic pick helps cut the remaining adhesive connecting the screen to the chassis. Next, we begin the most critical process - a thorough visual inspection of the motherboard and surrounding areas.

We check the humidity stickers. The one we're examining shows slight signs of water contact. The corrosion near the camera area is significantly more apparent, though. Beneath a flex, another humidity sticker has turned red, indicating extensive moisture contact. This is the reality of dealing with a water-damaged device, each one being a unique case.

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After identifying the moisture-affected areas, we move to remove the motherboard by detaching all screws and flexes. Two connectors, displaying considerable corrosion, suggest that the screen might also be damaged. These minor details help us gauge the water damage inside the phone, ultimately aiding us in speeding up the repair.

A visual inspection under a microscope reveals burned connectors. A good microscope is essential for any mobile repair technician. I started with a binocular microscope from Motic during my time at a company while dedicating my free time to repairs. It's common to invest your free time into honing your skills, though not everyone is willing.

To remove the iPhone 12's motherboard, we need to remove the battery. This task has become more complicated over time due to Apple engineers. Increasingly complex repairs lead to higher costs because of the time required.

Next, we deal with a flex located beneath the motherboard. A touch of isopropyl alcohol helps soften the adhesive. After that, we free the flex by removing three screws and a protective plate. We carefully lever a small connector with precision tweezers. Finally, we remove the motherboard from the chassis.

We cut the protective foam tape to have complete control of the connector. The preliminary cleaning starts next, removing all the rust and dirt from the connector using a piece of cotton and contact cleaner, though isopropyl alcohol works too.

The resin surrounding the connector is cut with a number 11 scalpel, making it easier to solder the burned pins. We use solder paste and a fine-tip soldering iron set at 350°C to restore these pads. Patience is key, especially since this moisture-ridden area will take time for the solder to adhere to the pads. Some flux can improve soldering, followed by thorough cleaning to remove excess flux.

We assemble the motherboard and screen in fast-forward and put in the battery to power on the device. Seeing the logo on screen is a good sign; we wait for the operating system to load. Upon successful loading, we conduct necessary tests.

In this specific case, we provide the cleaning free of charge and bill for the screen. Since it's an expensive screen, this approach is preferable. And there we have it, a successfully revived water-damaged iPhone 12. I hope you found this informative and it gave you a glimpse into our lab operations. I'm Leonardo, and until next time, goodbye!

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