Below is a list of Frequently Asked Questions about the repair smartphone.

General Questions

What does it mean for your technicians to be “Apple and Lenovo Certified”?

TechRestore is proud to have years of Lenovo Certified Experience and decades of Apple Certified experience. These major brand certifications verify that TechRestore is invested in your experience and our staff. It also proves our understanding of the operating systems and core functionality of your devices. Additionally, these certifications help keep us trained on new technology allowing proper troubleshooting, diagnostics, and a quicker resolution.

How much do you charge for diagnostics?

Let’s be honest, not all machines are worth repairing and we don’t believe you should invest in something blindly, therefore diagnostics are always FREE at TechRestore. This allows us to have an educated discussion concerning your device failure PRIOR to you investing into the device.

How long do diagnostics take?

Diagnostics provided by a Certified Technician typically take between 24-48 business hours. Additionally, we offer a “Hot Bench” service that will move you to the front of the “Diagnostic Line” for those times where you just can’t wait. To keep our service equitable for all, there is a $50 charge for this service. Ask your associate for further details!

How long will you have my computer?

After the diagnostic time (typically 24-48 business hours) a Certified Technician will reach out with their findings, cost to resolve and approximate turnaround time. Some issues can be resolved without parts, others may need to be ordered and both will affect turnaround time. Some effects are also outside of our control like part availability and ship times. When you speak to your technician, they will be able to give you a better idea but typical machines take 5-7 days if parts are needed. Of course TechRestore stocks most Apple iOS parts and many other commonly replaced parts.

How long does it take to fix my phone?

TechRestore prioritizes phone repairs over all others. This gives us the ability to fix your phone in about an hour for most issues.

How long does it take to fix my iPad?

TechRestore loves to fix iPads and we do so for schools across the nation. Due to this volume, our iPad turn around time is typically 2-3 days.

What brands of computers do you repair?

We work on all major device brands such as Dell, HP, ASUS, Lenovo and others. Don’t be shy. Bring us your device and if we can’t answer your questions, we’ll find you someone who can!

What types of Smartphones do you repair?

With over 50 years experience, we repair all major brands of smartphones including Apple, Samsung, Motorola, and LG.

I tried repairing my smartphone myself, can I still bring it in for repair or diagnostic?

Yes, no problem, we are here to help!  Just box it all up and bring it in.  One of our Certified Technicians will be able to sort it out and get you fixed up.

I have multiple issues with my smartphone, can I get a deal on multiple repairs?

Yes you can, give us a call and describe your problem and we will see what we could do for you.

Will a technician assist me personally for help with my device?

TechRestore is always thrilled to provide assistance and are happy to resolve some of the easier issues at the counter, free of charge. This includes use questions, change in settings or the like. Issues like resets, restores, account issues etc. are more complex and take an increasing amount of time and resources. To complete these, TechRestore does charge a small nominal fee (Typically $25-$40) to cover our costs. Unfortunately at this time we do not offer classes or blocks of time for purchase.

Can I trade in my device for cash?

Around here, we like to think that your device still has value after 5 years. We won’t pay you in iTunes gift cards either. As long as the device is an Apple, is no more than 10 years old, and in good working condition, we will not only offer you what Apple would offer, but we’d give you an extra 10% on your trade-in! Once the offer is made, you’ll get paid on the spot.

If my device is broken and/or no longer works, will TechRestore purchase it from me for parts?

Unfortunately, we do not purchase devices just for parts. However, if you need to get rid of your device in a safe manner, we will dispose of it properly. We will also ensure that data erasure meets or exceeds all local, state and federal guidelines. A certificate of destruction can be requested for a $20 fee per drive. Volume discounts available.

What is an Apple ID?

Your Apple ID is the way that Apple identifies you, tracks your purchases and makes all of your devices work seamlessly together. Every iPhone, iPad, iPod and Mac user needs one (and the best part is, it’s FREE!) If you’ve used the iTunes or App Store, you’ve got an Apple ID.

How do I know that my phone is connected to an Apple ID?

To ensure your device is properly signed into your Apple ID, go into your iPhone settings. The top of the page should show you a name and an e-mail. That is the specific Apple ID that is attached with that particular device.

Do I have to make an appointment?

No appointment is necessary at TechRestore. We are here for your convenience. We operate on a first-come first-serve basis. We are open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 6. P.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Mail in Repair Questions

What does free shipping mean?

TechRestore is proud to offer FREE return UPS ground shipping on all paid repairs. For our EDU customers, we provide free inbound AND return shipping with 3 or more repairs.

Can I mail in any device for repair?

You can mail-in anything listed on our site. If you have any questions or your device is not listed please call and our technicians will assist you.

Do I have to include my passcode with my phone?

Electronics are complex. Some repairs and upgrades require admin permission to complete. In order to be sure we have addressed all the issues, not just the obvious ones, our techs need to be able to thoroughly test your device before (if possible) and after repair. In most cases, that will require unlocking it. We will NEVER access or share any of your information. We also know there are special circumstances in which you will not be allowed to give us the information needed to do this, and we will work with you if that is the case. This also decreases the chance of undetected issues and repeat visits to fix them. We want you to sing with joy when you get your device back!

Do you need my SIM card?

No we do not need your SIM card but without it we cannot fully test your device.

What should I include when I am shipping my device to you?

It depends. If you are having trouble with an accessory (ie: power supply, monitor, bluetooth device, etc) then please include it when you bring or ship your device. If you have an Apple device, we have chargers, so if charging is not the issue, you don’t need to bring a charger (in fact, please don’t, we’d hate to mix it up with ours!). If you have a PC or Chromebook, we WILL need your charger no matter what. There are many makes and models of PC’s and Chromebook and there’s a different charger for just about every one (we’ll give it back). Still not sure? Contact us with the details and we will give our recommendation about what to include.

Liquid Damage Service

What should I do if my device falls in water or another liquid?

Do not turn on your device. It’s best if you bring it the next day or even the same day, as we will have a better chance of repairing it. Of course if you can’t make it to one of our locations, try to dry it out, then bring or mail your device to one of our locations.

My device was water damaged and now everything seems to work fine except for one function, do I still need the full water damage service?

The easiest answer to that question is to simply call us at one of our locations so our technicians can diagnose the problem.

How long do water damage repairs take to complete?

Water damage repairs generally take between 24 and 72 hours to complete depending on the level of damage. This estimate can vary, however, depending on the extent of the damage to the logic board and other components.

Glass & LCD Replacement Service

After dropping my phone it has become unresponsive to touch, does the glass repair fix this issue?

Yes, any non responsiveness your phone is suffering due to a drop will be corrected with the LCD & Digitizer repair, as the Digitizer that is being replaced is the part responsible for all touch functionality. Check out our glass replacement article to learn more about broken glass and the repair process.

How do I know if I need the LCD repair or not?

If the actual screen of the phone is bleeding, white, or has any dead pixels then you’re going to need to select the LCD & Glass option as the LCD has suffered irreversible damage. Still not sure? Send a picture of the current condition of the phone while it is powered on to support@smartfix.linethemes and we will do our best to diagnose it.

BuyBack Program

How do you evaluate the device?

TechRestores evaluation is completed via a multi-step process.

First, we ensure the device received matches the device selected during the trade in process. After verification we will assess the physical condition using our 35-point inspection process. This step is the longest as we ensure proper grade, no liquid damage, proper parts, no water damage etc. Lastly, we ensure all data has been securely erased and all personal information has been removed. After verification, we will send your payment via the method selected. If anything is discovered during the evaluation, we will offer an updated quote. If not approved, we are happy to ship your items back.

What About My SIM?

Keep it! Your SIM is not needed for the trade in process nor evaluation. We recommend just recycling as it won’t be needed in your new device either. If you forget, no worries TechRestore will gladly recycle for you.

What does “unlocked” mean?

For your device to be considered “unlocked” is can not be associated or tied to a carrier and your commitment must be completed. Since an “unlocked” phone is worth more, we recommend reaching out to your carrier prior to trade in to unlock.

How long is my quote good for?

Your TechRestore quote is good for 14 days. If your device is received after this time period, we will need to reevaluate using current market value.

How soon after delivery will my device be evaluated?

It is our goal to have evaluations on all device(s) completed within 2 business days after the delivery. Due to volume, sometimes we fall short. Therefore, we ask for a total of 4 days.

How do I ship my device?

We are happy to provide a prepaid label from FedEx or UPS. If the carriers servers are down, sometimes a label will not auto generate. No worries though, we are happy to help. Just reach out to us at 1-888-64-RESTORE and we will manually get one to you. Please make sure to share your email address too so you can receive updates, track and ensure delivery.

I haven’t received a Confirmation Email

First step, ensure that the email address provided is valid if so, check your Spam and Junk folders. Depending on your email provider, some emails may be mistaken and misrouted. If still nothing, feel free to reach out to us at 1-888-64-RESTORE

Lost or Stolen Device

Full stop, don’t try it, we don’t accept them. During our evaluation process, TechRestore uses state-of-the-art tools that will discover if the device is in either status.

How will I be paid?

We are happy to provide a few different methods of payment. Zelle is the preferred and quickest method available. Secondly we offer a mailed check. A bit slower, but complete payout is received. Lastly, we also offer PayPal. Please keep in mind that if PayPal is selected, they will charge 2.9% + $0.30 of your total payment as their seller fee which is not covered by TechRestore.

Do I need to erase my data?

YES! It is always best to ensure proper data erasure prior to selling any device. This includes the removal of iCloud and/or Google Lock . Without this removed, we will be unable to process your trade in.

How to remove iCloud activation lock

How to remove Samsung reactivation lock

(pull info from this page https://sellshark.com/remove-samsung-lock)

How to remove Samsung reactivation lock using a Web browser remotely

(pull info from this page https://sellshark.com/remove-samsung-lock)

Remove Google Activation Lock: On Your Device

(pull info from this page: https://sellshark.com/remove-google-lock)

Remove Google Activation Lock: Online

(pull info from this page: https://sellshark.com/remove-google-lock)

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