When to Replace vs Repair a Swollen Battery
A swollen battery isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s your phone’s way of quietly saying,
“Something is very wrong, please sort me out.”
Here’s how to know when it’s repairable… and when it’s time to retire the device entirely.
What Causes a Battery to Swell?
Lithium-ion batteries swell when the internal chemicals break down and release gas.
This usually happens because of age, heat, damage, or using a cheap charger that treats your phone like a toaster.
Once swollen, the battery can’t be “fixed” — it must be replaced.
When a Battery Replacement Is the Right Move
Replacing the battery is usually the cheapest and safest option if:
The swelling is mild and hasn’t warped the frame
The screen still sits mostly flat
The phone still functions normally
No other components have been damaged
The model is still worth repairing (iPhone, Samsung A/S series, Oppo, etc.)
With a fresh battery, the phone is often good for another 1–2 years.
When the Phone Should Be Retired Instead
Sometimes the swelling has caused more trouble behind the scenes. It may be time to say goodbye if:
The screen has lifted so far it’s cracked
The frame has warped or bent
The battery has expanded enough to strain the logic board
Multiple components have failed due to pressure
The device is very old (e.g. iPhone 7 and earlier)
In these cases, the repair cost may exceed the phone’s value — better to recycle it and move on.
Signs You Should Take Action Immediately
If you notice any of these, don’t keep using the phone:
Screen lifting or separating from the frame
Back panel bulging
Buttons jammed or clicking strangely
A gap suddenly appearing around the edges
The phone rocking when placed flat
A swollen battery can puncture or leak — best not to push your luck.
How We Handle Swollen Battery Repairs Safely
At Phone Repair NZ, we remove swollen batteries using safe, non-puncture techniques.
We check for frame deformation, screen damage, and board stress before fitting a new battery.
If the device is worth repairing, you’ll get a clear, straightforward recommendation.
If it’s not, we’ll tell you honestly — no upselling, no nonsense.