You may have heard of the Right to Repair movement, which advocates for consumers to have the freedom to take their devices anywhere to be fixed without being penalized by manufacturers or dealers. On the one hand, the right to repair opens up more opportunities for consumers who live in remote areas (farmers are often cited as examples) to take their devices, hardware, and software to local repair shops or online repair options. In short, the right to repair says consumers have the right to fix something they own when it breaks. On the other hand, manufacturers and dealers don't want to lose this business, and they want to protect their consumers' devices from unqualified tinkerers.
Both sides of the argument have validity. Right to repair allows consumers to seek inexpensive means (or even learn how to repair their own devices, a la YouTube, for example) to fix common issues with devices. According to WhiteHouse.gov, 30 states have introduced legislation on the right to repair. Opponents of the right to repair raise concerns about safety, saying that unqualified device repair makes consumers vulnerable to hackers, and it's not only smartphones but any internet-connected device (TVs, Wi-Fi routers, smart thermostats, video consoles, for example).
While corporations, legislators, consumer groups, and lobbyists fight over the right to repair versus the repair done right, we've gathered a list of options you've got for repairing your devices.
DIY Options for Fixing Devices
Even before you consult a professional to fix your device, you might be wise to go through a checklist of "did you do this" options before trekking off to your local repair shop or Geek Squad. Some decent online sources with good reputations for consumer electronic troubleshooting include:
wikiHow: This is one of the best how-to sites because articles are succinctly written and well-edited, and they use original illustrations that show and tell how to do things. Clean an iPhone, fix a hacked Android phone, troubleshoot common internet connection issues, connect a laptop to a monitor, and more.
YouTube: Both a blessing and a curse because of its vast library of videos, YouTube is a go-to for many who want to troubleshoot and fix issues with smartphones, tablets, laptops, computers, and other devices. On the downside, some video tutorials are ruined by "experts" who simply love to talk; on the upside, you may find some gems worth bookmarking. wikiHow has its own channel, and you might like MakeUseOf, AndroidAuthority, and Apple Support.
Visit the manufacturer's website and go to the support section, where you can navigate to your device type, model, and operating system. All the larger electronics manufacturers have knowledge bases where they try to help consumers self-navigate solutions. It is, after all, in the companies' best interests to get you to do the fix-it-first before they connect you with a customer service rep who's on their payroll! Some manufacturers include user forums, where customers, power users, and moderators share hacks and tips for improving the performance of devices.
Local Repair Shops
Your next line of defense is a local repair shop. The place where you purchased your device will likely offer repair services, and if your device is still under manufacturer warranty, this is a no-brainer. Take it to the pros and let them fix your technology.
As you look for "computer repair near me" or "smartphone repair near me," you might see results that use the words "certified" or "authorized" repair. This means that the local repair shop has gone through special training and has been accredited by the manufacturer. Should this make or break your decision? No, but take it into consideration. You should also check the repair shop's user reviews and BBB ratings to make sure they are in good standing.
Some local repair chains include UBreakiFix, iFixit, and Best Buy's Geek Squad.
Big Box Repair Stores
Best Buy is one of the most common and well-known big-box retailers that also offer electronic repair services. Basically, if they sell it, they work on it. They're an Apple and Samsung authorized service provider, and they work on Android devices, Windows computers, appliances, in-home entertainment systems, and more. They offer options for in-store repairs and on-site for larger items like smart refrigerators and smart home networking.
Internet Service Provider Repairs
If you bought your phone or tablet through your internet service provider, like T-Mobile, Verizon, or AT&T, you may be eligible for device repairs. Of course, they may encourage you, "It's better to upgrade," but if you're like some of us, you'd prefer to fix it. Did you buy an extended warranty when you purchased your phone? Are any repairs still covered under warranties or repair service agreements? If so, don't let this opportunity slip by. Some providers will even send a mobile repair service to your home or place of business, especially for routine repairs like cracked screens.
Online Repair Services
If you can do without your device for a few days or weeks, online repair might be a good option, but do your due diligence before selecting a service provider. First, check their reviews. We know you already know this, but it's worth repeating! Check service providers' reviews before going into a transaction with them.
Things to look for:
Do they cover shipping? Is the cost of shipping included in the total repair bill?
Do they offer a warranty on repairs?
How do they protect your information?
How do they handle payments? Is the payment method secure and safe?
How long do they take for standard repairs? How will they communicate with you during the repair process?
Do they offer remote tech support services?*
*Remote tech support is a service where a company logs into your computer with your permission, of course, and they navigate around your computer from their remote location. They see on their screen what you see on yours. A trusted remote tech support can save individuals and small businesses a lot of money in repairs, but how do you find them? GeekSquad actually offers remote tech service. Other options include searching for "remote tech support" and "remote it service," which deliver suggestions for HelloTech, Boxaid, and GeekBuddy. We suggest reading their reviews and comparing prices, as many offer one-time sessions and subscriptions that allow you to be on call. For a home PC, a one-time session should suffice. Small businesses may want to explore subscription options.
When Should You Call a Pro?
Err on the side of caution when it comes to your expensive devices. First, go to the manufacturer's website and see if you can troubleshoot the issues on your own. Then, if it is still under warranty, call the manufacturer and start a repair ticket. If it's not covered by a warranty, but it's worth fixing, shop around for the best option. You may have to sacrifice speed for price or vice versa; in other words, if you're in a hurry to have your device repaired, expect to pay for expedited services. If you can wait, a local repair shop or online option may work for you.
