A MobileLizard Phone Repair guide to buying a used iPhone
The Used iPhone Market Is Great — If You Know What to Look For
Buying a used iPhone can save you hundreds of dollars and get you a device that performs beautifully. It can also get you someone else’s problem. Here’s a practical checklist to run through before you hand over any money.
Before You Meet: Things to Verify Remotely
Ask for the IMEI number. Every iPhone has a unique IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity). Before meeting, ask the seller for it and check it on checkcoverage.apple.com and a free IMEI blacklist checker. This tells you: whether the device is still locked to a carrier, whether it’s reported stolen or blacklisted, and its warranty status.
Ask for proof of purchase if the phone is claimed to be recent. A receipt or carrier purchase confirmation matters.
When You Have the Phone in Hand
Check Activation Lock. Go to Settings. If it asks for someone else’s Apple ID and password, you cannot use this phone. Do not buy it unless the seller can sign out of their Apple ID in front of you right now.
To check before signing in: try the setup process — the phone will prompt for an Apple ID login if Activation Lock is enabled.
Check Battery Health. Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging. Below 80% means the battery is significantly degraded and you’ll be looking at a replacement soon. Factor this into the price.
Check for screen damage. Test every corner of the screen for touch response. Swipe through apps, type in multiple areas of the keyboard, check for dead zones. Turn the brightness all the way up and look for dark spots, discoloration, or lines. Check the edges for signs of prior screen replacement (gaps between screen and frame, different glass texture, misaligned bezels).
Test all ports and buttons. Plug in a charger and confirm it charges. Test the volume buttons, mute switch, and power button. Connect some headphones.
Test the cameras. Open the Camera app and check front and rear cameras for clarity, autofocus, and that the flash works.
Check the IMEI on the phone itself. Settings > General > About > IMEI. Make sure it matches what you were given remotely.
Verify it’s not a replica. Settings > General > About should show the correct model identifier. If anything about the settings menu looks unfamiliar or if the iOS version is unusual, be cautious.
Have a Technician Check It
If you’re buying a used iPhone and want a professional second opinion before committing, bring it to us. We can run a diagnostic and confirm the battery health, screen quality, and component integrity quickly.
iPhone repair and diagnostic services at Mobile Lizard. Walk-ins welcome.
Stop by and see us! We’re in Baltimore — Walk-Ins Welcome
2621 Eastern Ave, Patterson Park. Tuesday–Friday 11am–6:30pm, Saturday 11am–5:30pm. Call or text 443-863-9738.