Many people walk around with cracked iPhone screens for months, even years. It’s easy to adapt to the spider web of cracks as long as the phone still works. But when it comes time to trade in or sell that device, those cracks could cost you hundreds of dollars in lost value. What seems like a minor cosmetic issue actually makes a massive difference in what buyers are willing to pay for your cracked phone.
The market for iPhone screen replacements has grown tremendously in recent years, with options ranging from official Apple repairs to third-party services. This expansion means getting your screen fixed is more affordable than ever before. Many consumers fail to realise that a relatively small investment in fixing a screen can yield returns of three to four times that amount when trading in or selling the device.
Real Trade-In Value Differences
The numbers speak for themselves. Take the iPhone 11 Pro as an example. A model with a cracked screen might fetch around £180-£220 in trade-in value. That same phone with a pristine screen? Easily £350-£400. That’s a difference of about £180 just for fixing the screen, which typically costs between £60-£120 depending on where you get it repaired.
Similar patterns emerge across all models. An iPhone 12 with screen damage might trade in for £230, while one in excellent condition could get you £400 or more. Even older models show significant differences—an iPhone XR with a cracked screen might only get you £100, whereas a flawless one could fetch £220.
Why such a stark difference? Buyers and trade-in programmes assess devices based on their resale potential. A cracked screen immediately signals that the new owner will need to invest in repairs, and that cost gets deducted from what they’re willing to pay you. Plus, they can’t be sure if there’s additional damage beneath the surface that the cracks might be hiding.
When to Repair Before Selling
Not every screen repair will yield a positive return on investment. The key is knowing when it makes financial sense to fix before selling. As a general rule, newer and higher-end models benefit most from pre-sale repairs.
For premium models like the iPhone 13 Pro Max or iPhone 14 Pro, screen repairs almost always pay for themselves several times over. The trade-in value difference can be £200-£300, while the repair might cost £100-£150. That’s a clear win.
Mid-range models like the standard iPhone 11 or 12 usually still justify repairs. You might spend £80 on a screen replacement and gain £150 in trade-in value—still a solid return. Even for the budget-friendly iPhone SE, the math often works out in favour of fixing the screen first.
Where it gets trickier is with phones older than the iPhone X. For these devices, you’ll need to check current trade-in values carefully. Sometimes the difference between damaged and excellent condition might only be £50-£70, which could be less than the repair cost.
Quality Matters: Getting the Right Repair
Not all screen repairs are created equal. Poor-quality replacements can actually hurt your trade-in value rather than help it. Most trade-in programmes and buyers can spot aftermarket screens that don’t match the quality of original Apple components.
Look for repair services that offer OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or high-quality compatible screens. While these might cost slightly more than the cheapest option, they ensure your device maintains that factory-fresh look that commands top value.
Signs of a quality screen replacement include:
- Proper colour calibration that matches the original
- Responsive touch functionality across the entire surface
- No visible gaps between the screen and the frame
- Properly functioning Face ID if applicable
Many reputable repair shops now offer warranties on their screens, which gives you peace of mind that the quality will hold up until you’re ready to sell or trade in your device.
Beyond the Screen: Other Repairs Worth Considering
While the screen is typically the most visible issue affecting trade-in value, other quick fixes can also boost what you’ll get for your device. Battery health is a major factor in iPhone valuation. If your battery health has dropped below 80%, replacing it before trade-in can increase your phone’s value significantly.
The back glass panel is another consideration. On newer iPhone models, a cracked back can reduce trade-in value almost as much as a cracked screen. However, back glass repairs tend to be more expensive, so you’ll need to calculate if the investment makes sense for your specific model.
Minor cosmetic issues like small dents or scratches on the frame typically don’t justify professional repair costs, but you might consider using a polish designed for smartphones to minimize their appearance.
Timing Your Repair and Sale
Market timing also plays a role in maximising your return. iPhone values typically drop sharply when new models are released, usually in September or October each year. If your phone is working fine but has a cracked screen, consider getting it repaired a month or two before the next iPhone release, then selling it before the new models hit the market.
Conversely, the used market often sees a bump in January and February after the holiday season, when people who received new phones are selling their old ones. This increased supply can temporarily drive down prices, making it a less ideal time to sell.
If you’re planning to trade in through Apple’s programme, watch for their promotional periods. They occasionally offer boosted trade-in values for limited times, especially during new product launches or major shopping seasons.
DIY Repairs: Proceed with Caution
The internet is replete with DIY screen repair kits and tutorials. While these might seem like a way to save money, they come with significant risks. Unless you have experience with delicate electronics repair, a DIY attempt could result in additional damage that actually decreases your phone’s value further.
Modern iPhones are water-resistant, but this protection often gets compromised during amateur repair attempts. Additionally, features like Face ID rely on the precise alignment of the screen assembly components. Even small errors in the installation process can permanently disable these features.
For most people, professional repair is the safer bet. However, if you’re comfortable with electronics repair and willing to accept the risks, DIY kits typically cost £30-£60 for most iPhone models, potentially increasing your profit margin when selling.
Conclusion
A cracked screen doesn’t have to mean accepting a massive hit on your iPhone’s value. With screen repairs more affordable than ever, fixing that damaged display before selling or trading in your device is often a smart financial move. For newer models, especially, you could see returns of 200-300% on your repair investment. Take the time to check current trade-in values both with and without damage, calculate the repair costs from reputable services, and make an informed decision that puts more money in your pocket. In many cases, that hour spent getting your screen fixed could be the most profitable hour of your year.