Water Damage to S21 Ultra

[SaunakS]

Was using a Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra (12+ 256 GB) right from its launch in January 2021. Have taken it to multiple trips, used it as my daily driver and photography tool. I had also taken it to Rishikesh where I had used it for some slow-motion splash shots of the Ganges without worrying much, knowing that it was equipped with IP68 Dust and Water resistance. However, soon, my power button started to malfunction, my camera lenses started to fog, and upon taking it to an authorised samsung service centre they quoted me an atrocious repair cost of 45000/- which is daylight robbery because the company has certified the phone to be both water and dust resistant! If your phones aren't water resistant, don't make tall claims! 

[chndn811]

I have heard that most of the brands don't guarantee or warranty water damage inspite of the IP rating. It seems to be a scam.

Also, your phone is out of warranty because of which company is charging for repairs.

[iamrohitkm]

Even in warranty, they'll charge unless you have purchased an extra care pack. I have purchased a comprehensive care package for my s21 ultra for 10k for 2 yrs which covers physical and liquid damage. So no worries for me.

[chndn811]

That's great.

[iamrohitkm]

Keep your phone in a dry rice bowl or silicone case for 2 days. Your problem will be solved. I have tried it and worked.

[Ab_Heartsy]

45k that's 🤯 😬, most IP68 is only good till the power of the gum/adhesive that holds it together. I've heard after repairs the company only give limited time warranty for the new waterproofing as the adhesive used is different than the original one. But not sure about 45k.

the power button fault, is it very severe?

Was there any gap between the events, the day it got splashed & the day it developed button issue n fogging? U could try putting ur device in a air tight container filled with silica gel packets, it's much better than the rice trick.

[iamrohitkm]

But recently I have replaced the battery for my s10 from service centre they took 2.5 hrs to replace it and they made sure adhesive is intact and also guaranteed that ip seal is intact after replacement. Check your DM pls.

[Ab_Heartsy]

I read this information about adhesive in an article about iFixit launching self repair program in US or Europe countries especially France, there I read something about samsung n it's IP68 policy after repairs. In ur case the adhesive they used might be good.

[iamrohitkm]

My suggestion is plz buy a care pack also when you are purchasing flagship devices which'll save you during this time.

[iamrohitkm]

If climatic conditions are not favourable like very chilled or very hot, there are chances of a seal getting losen, so this type of issue may occur.

Yes it's a glue tape which is used to seal the product, in which fundamental chemical reactions are expected when climatic conditions are not favourable.

I think they would have notice liquid log when they done early level screening, but customer can write to the escalation desk to investigate further and support.

The above reply is from the Samsung service centre. Plz accept the solution.