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Revamped version of the iPhone 3G with faster processing speeds. Repair of this device is similar to the 3G, and requires simple screwdrivers and prying tools. Model A1303 / 8, 16 or 32 GB capacity / black or white plastic back.

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Water damaged iPhone 3GS won't turn on

I picked up a Iphone 3GS to repair for a friend.

They had dropped it in water a while back and said it wouldn't come on.

I got it, plugged it up and the LCD is dim, but the charging logo shows up.

After leaving it on the charger for about 30 minutes it wouldn't come on. It finally didn't show anything so I unplugged it and plugged it back up and still the same thing.

Itunes doesn't recognize it, but I'm not sure it would if the phone is off.

Any ideas on what it could be?

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

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I already know how to tear down the phones... I do this as a side job, but I haven't had this particular issue before.

The inside looks clean already, so I was wondering what anyone thought it was... the board or the battery. I don't have either as spare parts at the moment so was curious to any input before I ordered parts.

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Thanks.... I got it to come one. I took it completely apart again and looked it over, still nothing I could see. I put it back together and this time it came on. I just have to get a new LCD for it as this one is dim/white. Thanks again!

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Andy, I definitely would start off with this guideIt is for a 3G but essentially the same procedure. I habitually change the battery on a liquid immersion. After that, reevaluate and see what you got. The order I'd proceed is Clean>new battery>LCD>logic board. Just my 2 cents....good luck.

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There isn't much that you can do with a water damaged phone if it is truly water damaged. One process that sometimes fixes these phones is opening them up(which iFixit has a great guide for) and seeing if there is corrosion anywhere. if there is you can take pure rubbing alcohol and a tooth brush and gently rub all the circuitry on the motherboard till it is very clean. If this lets it power on, but only when charging, then you probably also have a damaged battery and that may need to be replaced($20 from iFixit). This doesn't work 100% of the time but most of the time it does. Hopefully this can get the iPhone working again as they are great little devices.

Hope this helps.

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Andy will be eternally grateful.
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