Android Android Phones Phone Screen Cracked but Still Works — Should You Repair?: How to Fix It Yourself
Your phone screen is cracked but everything still works. Should you fix it now or wait? This guide helps you decide based on how bad the damage is and what it costs for your specific phone.
⚠️ Safety First
- A cracked screen can cut your fingers — especially on the edges.
- Cracks allow dust and moisture to enter the phone, which can cause more damage over time.
- If the crack is over the camera, your photos may be blurry or have flares.
Parts You May Need
Step-by-Step Repair
- 1
Assess the damage level
Look at the crack carefully. Is it a small corner crack, a single line across the screen, or a spiderweb of cracks? Small cracks in the corner are mostly cosmetic. A single line is stable and usually does not spread. Spiderweb cracks weaken the glass and will likely spread — these should be repaired or covered soon.
- 2
Check if touch still works everywhere
Run your finger across the entire screen, especially near the cracks. If touch is unresponsive or glitchy near the cracked area, the digitizer is damaged and the problem will get worse. If touch works perfectly everywhere, the crack is only in the outer glass layer.
- 3
Apply a screen protector as a temporary fix
If the crack is minor, applying a tempered glass screen protector over the cracked screen can prevent the crack from spreading, protect your fingers from sharp edges, and keep dust and moisture out. This can buy you weeks or months of normal use before deciding on a repair.
- 4
Compare repair costs to phone value
Look up the screen replacement cost for your phone model. For flagship phones (iPhone 15, Galaxy S24, Pixel 8), a DIY screen is $50-250 and professional repair is $100-350. If your phone is worth $400+, the repair makes sense. If the phone is worth less than the repair cost, consider upgrading instead.
- 5
Check your insurance and warranty
Check if you have AppleCare+, Samsung Care+, or carrier insurance (like Asurion). Most insurance plans cover cracked screens with a deductible of $29-99 — much cheaper than paying full price. Also check if your credit card offers phone protection for phones purchased with that card.
If That Didn't Work
- A cracked screen can lead to touch problems, water damage, and display failures if left unrepaired.
- Cracks tend to spread with temperature changes and additional minor drops.
- Some cracks are only in the screen protector, not the actual screen — remove the protector to check.
When to Call a Professional
If the crack is severe, if the screen leaks dark spots (LCD or OLED damage), or if touch is unreliable, repair it soon. A professional can typically replace a phone screen in 30-60 minutes. If the phone is under insurance, always file a claim before paying out of pocket.
Related Repairs
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional repair advice. All repairs are performed at your own risk. RepairItFree.com is not liable for any personal injury, property damage, device damage, voided warranties, or other losses resulting from the use of this information.
If you are unsure about any step — especially anything involving electricity, gas, water, or refrigerant — stop and consult a qualified professional. Your safety is more important than saving money.
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