What happens if you don't fix a cracked screen?

If you choose not to fix a cracked screen, several issues can arise, ranging from minor inconveniences to more severe problems. Here’s a breakdown of the potential consequences of leaving a cracked screen unrepaired:

1. Further Damage to the Screen

• Spreading Cracks: A crack, if left untreated, can worsen over time. Small cracks can spread further with everyday use, eventually leading to a larger, more expensive repair or even complete screen failure.
• Touch Sensitivity: The touchscreen functionality may degrade. As cracks expand, certain areas of the screen might become less responsive to touch, leading to frustration when using the device.

2. Potential Display Issues

• Dead or Stuck Pixels: Cracks can sometimes damage the underlying LCD or OLED panel, causing dead or stuck pixels. You may notice certain parts of the screen no longer display images correctly, or there could be color distortion.
• Color and Brightness Issues: A cracked screen could affect how colors appear on the display, leading to inconsistent brightness or washed-out colors, especially in the cracked area.
• Display Flickering: The damage might cause parts of the screen to flicker or become distorted, making it harder to view content clearly.

3. Compromised Protection of Internal Components

• Exposing Internals to Dust and Moisture: A cracked screen can compromise the structural integrity of the phone, leaving the internal components vulnerable to dust, dirt, or moisture. This exposure can damage internal circuits, the battery, or other sensitive parts, leading to further problems down the line.
• Water Damage: If the screen crack goes unnoticed, it may eventually allow water to seep inside the device, potentially leading to water damage, which could be more expensive to repair than the screen itself.

4. Decreased Resale or Trade-In Value

• Reduced Value: A phone with a cracked screen typically has a significantly lower resale or trade-in value. If you decide to sell or trade in your device later, the crack can result in a much lower offer than if the screen was intact.
• Impact on Warranty: If the screen is cracked and the device is under warranty, most warranties will not cover the damage, as they often exclude accidental damage. This means that if you encounter other issues with the phone later on, you may be left paying for repairs on top of fixing the screen.

5. Increased Risk of Injury

• Glass Shards: If the crack is severe or the glass begins to break off, it can pose a risk of cutting you, especially when handling the phone. Tiny shards of glass may come loose, increasing the potential for injury.
• Screen Fragmentation: Over time, a cracked screen can become even more fragile, and if it’s left unchecked, the glass might shatter further. This not only makes the phone harder to use but also increases the risk of injury.

6. Impact on User Experience

• Viewing Difficulties: Cracks can obscure your view, making it harder to read text, watch videos, or play games. If the crack is in the middle of the screen, it could be especially bothersome when viewing images or watching videos.
• Frustration in Daily Use: The inability to interact with your device properly due to touch sensitivity issues, screen distortions, or just the distraction of a visible crack can lead to frustration and a reduced user experience.

7. Risk of Device Malfunctioning

• Internal Damage: A cracked screen can cause stress on the internal components. For instance, the impact of a cracked screen may have been strong enough to damage the phone’s motherboard, or the crack could interfere with the screen’s connection to the device.
• Battery Drain: In some cases, the damage can even affect your phone’s battery. Some users have reported that a cracked screen may lead to overheating or issues with power management.

Should You Fix It Immediately?

While a cracked screen might still function initially, ignoring it can lead to escalating costs and damage in the future. If you leave the crack unaddressed:

• Minor Damage can quickly turn into Major Damage as the screen continues to degrade, making a repair more costly.
• Screen Protectors: If the crack isn’t too severe, you can apply a screen protector to reduce the risk of further damage and keep glass shards from falling off. However, this is just a temporary solution and won't fix the underlying issue.

When Should You Repair the Screen?

• If the crack affects touch functionality, viewing the display, or if the device is exposed to water or dust, it’s a good idea to repair it sooner rather than later.
• If the crack is superficial and doesn’t interfere with your experience, you can wait until you’re ready for an upgrade, but keep in mind the potential risks.

Summary

• Cracked screens can worsen over time, affecting the display, touch functionality, and the phone's internals.
• Ignoring repairs may lead to higher repair costs down the line, especially if the damage spreads.
• Exposure to elements (like water or dust) and the risk of injury make it important to repair a cracked screen sooner rather than later.
• If the crack doesn't interfere with functionality, and you’re careful with your phone, you can wait, but it’s better to get it fixed before more serious issues arise.