The use of technology has rapidly increased the pace of our lives. We have taken major strides in the field of communication, and computing technologies. Mobile phones have brought the world at our feet. With every new phone coming up with an additional set of functionality, the future does look promising.
However, every technology has its pros and cons. One of the cons of using mobile phones is its vulnerability to hardware and software failures. Also, since most of our phones are now becoming sleeker and lighter, they are susceptible to physical damages as well.
The repair and overhaul of our mobile phone become a tedious task. Some cell phone repair shops may charge you exorbitant rates for minor services as well, while others may lack the desired technical expertise to deliver the right results. One of the most common issues that people face is a breach of their data at mobile repair shops.
Since, all of our data ranging from bank account details, photos, contacts, etc. are stored on our mobile phones, it is essential that your mobile repair shop takes utmost care to ensure your data is safe. Let us look at a few things that you must keep in mind before choosing your mobile repair shop:
1) Check for Authenticity
The primary result that one expects after getting their mobile phones repaired is that their initial problem must be solved. Merely solving the issue won’t be enough as you would want your mobile phones to sustain these changes. No one likes to bear the cost of repeated servicing after the initial expenditure. This is the reason why one must always verify the authenticity of the mobile repair shop.
Although some mobile repair shops may work independently and may not be affiliated to any brand like Apple, they must use genuine spare parts and tools. Genuine spare parts come with a warranty, so in case of repeated failures, you can choose to avail the warranty and get your phone repaired sans extra cost. The reason why you get a warranty on genuine spare parts is that they generally undergo rigorous tests and quality checks. This is particularly useful in case of an iPhone where the cost of spare parts is high.
Authenticity is not only limited to spare parts and tools but also in their payment methods. You must ensure that the shop that you’re choosing for your repair work must have the legal authority to collect payments from you. In case of any fraudulent ways of extracting money, these shops can be dragged to the court. However, shops that only have a physical existence and are non-existent on paper cannot be under any legal implications and may turn out to be a money-making venture.
2) Compare Your Shops
Even if there is a shop that you frequently trust for your mobile phone repairs, you must always insist on comparing a few shops for the same set of services that you require. It is quite possible that a part is available at cheaper rates at some other shops due to affiliate discounts and corporate partnerships. Some mobile phone repair shops may even waive off a certain amount as a discount for first-time repairs.
A healthy comparison involves using the right parameters and setting the criteria for evaluation. You cannot compare a cat and a dog, similarly, you cannot blindly judge by amount. Your decision should take into account the quality of services that you’re getting against the amount of money that you’re spending.
If a mobile repair shop uses genuine spare parts and has a team of highly trained technicians, you can be assured of reliable service that will never fail you. It is conspicuous that the prices at such repair shops are higher than conventional shops. However, for minor hardware issues like screen repair, generally, any shop would suffice.
It is also advisable that you look for services online as online stores offer huge conveniences like pickup and delivery of phone. Some have a feature where clicking on a simple link like ‘fix my phone‘ can get you in touch with customer service.
The progress of your repair, the amount that you’re being charged and other details are constantly updated on these websites such that you are constantly in the loop. Online stores are also known for providing huge discounts. The only downside of using these services that you cannot verify the authenticity of the parts and the services once your phone gets delivered.
3) Ask for Quotations
A quotation is simply the estimated cost of repairs and spare parts that are required for repairing your mobile phone. It provides a detailed analysis of the brand if they are using a spare part, the service charges and the taxes levied. It grants you an insight into what your cost would be.
If the cost of repairing your phone exceeds its current value, it is futile to undertake these repairs, and instead one can opt for buying a new phone. If you do not ask for a written quotation, there are chances that your mobile repair shop may deviate from the initial quotation and add escalations to your cost under various heads.
The most important reason why one must insist on a quotation is that helps you compare the costs that may be incurred at various and introduces you to different terms and conditions. These terms and condition may provide you with a glimpse of policies followed by the shop. Some shops may complete shying away from offering you a warranty on their repairs, and this may burn a hole through your pocket later.
The quotation also contains information about the modes of payment and conveniences provided. Some shops may ask for the entire cost to be paid upfront while others may charge a certain percentage of your total cost as the initial payment.
In case of major repairs, where the cost is quite high, you may ask for an installment-based payment or try to cover your payment through an insurance agency. It is of utmost importance that you get acquainted with the service and financial policies of a mobile repair shop before taking any decision.
4) The Turnaround Time
The cumulative time required for completing your repairs depends upon various factors like the number of phones in the queue for repairs, the availability of spare parts and the availability of skilled labor for undertaking the restoration.
If a particular part or set of parts aren’t available with the mobile repair shop, then the turnaround time in such scenario is quite high, as the shop has to specially order a piece for you and wait for its delivery before proceeding for the actual repair.
In case of an emergency, comparing the turnaround time of various shops can help you get a rough estimate of the actual time that may be required in repairing. As the value of time is much higher than money, you must decide to choose a shop with the least time of repair.
It is important that your shop adheres to the timeline and communicate with you regarding any unwarranted delays. Not sticking to their initial promises may prove to be cumbersome for you as delays may paralyze your daily functioning as all our tasks and functionalities involve the use of smartphones at some point. You do not want to face delays that may hamper your daily routine.
Choosing the right mobile phone repair shop is the first step toward getting your phone back. It also ensures that the life your mobile phone is enhanced after undergoing a repair and not the other way round. Following these guidelines may ensure a hassle-free experience for you and can prevent incurring major costs in the future.
