Samsung Galaxy Note 3 Repair

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can you replace just the glass layer of the screen?

  In most cases no, the majority of today’s devices have a multi-layer (or ‘composite’) screen, which includes the AMOLED or LCD panel as well as a variety of layers (including the top glass digitizer) manufactured together into a single component. 

  Technically, it is possible to replace just the glass digitizer on a composite screen, however we don’t offer this option since it significantly affects the performance and longevity of your device. If your device comes from the factory with a separate glass digitizer (like some iPad models and a few entry-level phones), it is possible to replace separately without replacing the LCD.

  For more information on the pitfalls of glass-only repairs (or re-glassed screens), we have included a summary of our research as well as customers’ experiences in our Blog section.

• How do I know if my battery needs replacing?

  The lithium ion battery in your device should operate for around 500-600 ‘cycles’ before you begin to notice a decrease in its capacity (the maximum amount of usage between charges). Around this time, your battery may only be able to hold 70-80% of its original capacity – so even with a full charge, your battery will hold less power than when it was new.

  What is a battery cycle? A battery cycle is considered ‘full-charge-to-full-discharge’ – so partial charges count only as partial cycles (it doesn’t hurt lithium ion batteries to partially charge them).

  For this reason, we see most battery replacements in the device’s second year (since many users run through a full cycle or more every day).

  Fonelab’s free Battery Health Check lets you know how many cycles your battery has used, as well as its remaining capacity. We stock a wide assortment of batteries and can replace them right in our store lab.

• What is Fonelab’s Warranty?

  Fonelab’s Warranty covers manufacturer-related defects on components installed by Fonelab as well as the workmanship associated with the repair; it’s similar to having your original manufacturer’s warranty on the repaired component(s).

  The Warranty does not cover supplemental damage (which can be defined as any damage unrelated to the repair, including, but not limited to accidental or physical damage or liquid damage to the device). For this reason exclusions include, but aren’t limited to, physical and/or liquid damage, batteries, liquid damage recovery and any third-party send-away repairs (separate warranties are offered by the various manufacturers; for instance, Samsung’s central service centre provides a 90-day warranty). Liquid damage and subsequent physical damage which occurs after a completed repair will void this warranty.

  For screens, typical symptoms that would indicate a manufacturer’s defect are changes in colour reproduction, sharpness and/or touch sensitivity. Screens that become blank or show lines (usually vertical) indicate that the phone has experienced an impact event or pressure that has damaged the display panel itself, or the connections between the various layers of the display panel, including the display controller board and cables. These issues are not covered by manufacturers’ or Fonelab’s Warranty. 

  Fonelab’s Warranty is exclusively for the benefit of the original customer of the repair, and is non-transferable.

• What is Fonelab’s Free Diagnostic?

  A Fonelab technician will identify the most likely root cause of your device issue, including hardware or software testing as well as external physical inspection. 

  If the issue can be resolved with a repair, a quote will be provided (there’s no obligation to proceed with the repair). Sometimes the identified issue can be resolved without requiring a repair.

  Opening of the device and/or internal inspection is available for a minimal fee depending on the device model.

• Do I need to backup my personal data before a repair?

  We recommend that you back up your personal data (contacts, photos, etc.) at home prior to any repair or service.

  Most physical repairs (screen replacement, charging port repair, etc.) don’t affect your device’s software, however there is always a risk of data being affected when a device is opened.

  Manufacturer warranty repairs and Fonelab’s Software Services require modification of your device’s software and will over-write/erase your personal data.

  Data backup and transfer services are available in-store for a fee (repair times will be extended depending on the amount of data on your device).

  For free at-home back-up options, please visit our Blog.