5 Must-Check Things Before Buying a Used iPhone (2024 Buyer’s Guide)

Buying a used iPhone can save you money, but it also comes with risks. To avoid scams and faulty devices, always inspect these 5 critical things before handing over your cash.

1. Check the IMEI/Serial Number

🔍 Why? Ensures the iPhone isn’t stolen, locked, or blacklisted.

How to Verify:

1. Find the IMEI:

   • Dial *#06# or go to Settings > General > About.

   • Check the back of the device (or SIM tray on older models).

2. Run an IMEI check:

   • Apple’s Check Coverage Page

   • IMEI.info (for carrier locks & blacklist status)

🚨 Red Flags:

• "Activation Lock" enabled (means it’s still linked to an Apple ID).

• Blacklisted IMEI (could be stolen).

2. Test the Battery Health

🔋 Why? A weak battery means poor performance and extra replacement costs.

How to Check:

• Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health.

• Good: 85%+

• Fair: 80%-85% (may need replacement soon)

• Poor: Below 80% (likely needs a new battery)

💡 Tip: If the seller resets the iPhone, ask for a screenshot of battery health before buying.

3. Inspect the Screen & Body for Damage

📱 Why? Hidden cracks or water damage can lead to costly repairs.

What to Look For:

✔ Screen:

• Dead pixels (display a white/black image to check).

• Touch responsiveness (try swiping everywhere).
  ✔ Body:

• Dents, scratches, or cracks.

• Water damage indicators (check SIM tray—white = good, red/pink = water damage).

💡 Pro Tip: Bring a bright flashlight to spot hidden screen cracks.

4. Test All Hardware & Sensors

⚙️ Why? Faulty buttons, cameras, or microphones ruin the experience.

Checklist:

✅ Buttons (Power, Volume, Silent Switch)
✅ Cameras (Test front & rear, check for blurriness)
✅ Speakers & Microphone (Play music, make a call)
✅ Face ID/Touch ID (Should unlock quickly)
✅ Wi-Fi, Bluetooth & Cellular (Connect to networks)

🔧 If something doesn’t work: Negotiate a lower price or walk away.

5. Verify Software & iCloud Status

📲 Why? A locked iPhone is useless without the original owner’s Apple ID.

Critical Checks:

1. Is iCloud Locked?

   • Go to Settings > [Your Name]. If an Apple ID is logged in, the seller must remove it before selling.

   • If reset, check for Activation Lock during setup.

2. Is the iPhone Jailbroken?

   • Jailbroken iPhones may have security risks.

   • Look for Cydia or unfamiliar apps.

🚫 Walk away if:

• The seller can’t remove Find My iPhone.

• The phone is stuck in iCloud Activation Lock.

Bonus: Where to Buy a Used iPhone Safely?

✅ Trusted Refurbishers (Apple, iRenew, CompAsia)
✅ Reputable Marketplaces (Facebook Marketplace, Carousell—meet in person)
❌ Avoid: Shady sellers with no warranty or return policy.

Final Checklist Before Buying

Before paying, confirm:
✔ Clean IMEI (not blacklisted)
✔ Battery Health (85%+ ideal)
✔ No Physical Damage (screen, body, water damage)
✔ All Hardware Works (buttons, cameras, mic)
✔ No iCloud Lock (Find My iPhone disabled)

Found a good deal? Check iRenew’s certified used iPhones →