We get it, we’ve all been there. Your phone screen cracks, your laptop won’t boot, or your iPad just stops charging. You open YouTube, type in a fix, and within minutes, you’re convinced you can sort it out with a heat gun, a blade, and a little bravery.
But here’s the truth. Some device repairs look simple on the internet, but trying them at home can end up doing more harm than good, especially with Apple devices.
In the Indian context, DIY repairs often go hand-in-hand with local market hacks, cheap tools, and limited guidance. And while that may seem like a cost-saving move, it could end up damaging your device beyond repair.
Here are the top 5 dangerous DIY tech fixes you should absolutely avoid, and also know why it’s smarter to leave them to trained hands.
1. Screen Replacements on iPhones or MacBooks
That cracked iPhone screen might seem like a straight swap job. Unscrew, lift, replace, done? Not really.
Source: Rapid Repair
Modern Apple devices are tightly packed. Replacing a screen requires careful detachment of flex cables, proper sealing, and recalibration for True Tone display or Face ID. One wrong move, and you can:
- Tear the display connector
- Lose Face ID functionality
- Leave gaps that let dust or water in
We’ve seen DIY fixes using Fevikwik (yes, seriously) to “seal” screens. So, please don’t try an iPhone screen replacement at home.
2. Battery Swaps Using Local Market Parts
We’ve heard it all, “Just get a ₹500 battery from Gaffar Market”, or “My mobile shop guy says he can do it in 10 minutes.”
Sure, he can. But what goes into your phone may not be an OEM battery. Cheap, non-certified batteries can:
- Swell and damage the device from the inside
- Overheat or even catch fire
- Drain faster than your old battery did
Replacing an iPhone or MacBook battery involves precision tools, calibration, and safety protocols. Not something your average toolkit can handle.
3. Liquid Damage DIY Hacks
Spilt chai on your MacBook? Dropped your iPhone in a bucket of water? Whatever you do, don’t try the “rice trick”. It doesn’t fix anything and may make things worse by trapping moisture inside.
Source: Phone Repair & More
Also, don’t use:
- A hair dryer (you’ll push moisture deeper)
- Isopropyl alcohol bought from a local medical shop (it’s often not pure)
- Cotton buds or tissue paper near the logic board
Liquid damage needs immediate professional cleaning, often under a microscope, with ultrasonic cleaners, tools you won’t find at home.
4. Trying to Fix Charging Issues by Cleaning the Port
We’ve seen people use safety pins, needles, and even toothpicks to “clean” their iPhone charging port. The result?
- Bent or broken pins
- Damage to the internal connector
- A port that stops working completely
If your device isn’t charging, it might be due to dust buildup, but cleaning it requires tools like compressed air or anti-static brushes, not sharp objects.
5. DIY Software Resets & Third-Party Flashing Tools
“iPhone stuck on Apple logo? Just flash it using this free tool.”
“MacBook slow? Reset the PRAM using Terminal commands.”
Be careful.
Random software downloads can contain malware, especially from unofficial Indian forums or Telegram groups. You could end up:
- Bricking your device permanently
- Locking it out of iCloud
- Losing all your data without backup
Even software resets must be handled carefully, preferably after taking a full backup and using official Apple tools.
Why It’s Riskier in India
In India, the risk with DIY is even higher due to:
- Availability of fake parts in local markets
- Limited access to high-quality tools
- Non-standardised repair advice floating online
- A culture of “jugaad” that sometimes ignores DIY phone repair risks
Plus, most Apple devices are expensive investments. One wrong fix and your warranty is void, or worse, the device becomes unrepairable.
DIY feels empowering, until it isn’t. Some fixes are best left to professionals who are trained, equipped, and experienced. So next time you’re tempted to open up your iPhone or MacBook with a screwdriver and a YouTube video, pause. Ask yourself, is this really worth the risk?
Because when it comes to your device, a safe repair is always better than a cheap fix gone wrong.
Read – How Often Should You Back Up Your Devices?
Got issues with your Apple Watch, iPhone, iPad, MacBook or any Apple device? Is a trustworthy repair centre not in sight? Don’t worry, the experts can help you get a free pickup and drop service and provide a bright repair solution for all your Apple woes. Call today for your iPhone battery replacement, screen replacement, and other top repair services.
