---
title: 'Don't Upgrade Yet: 5 Common Device Faults That Are Surprisingly Cheap to Fix'
date: '2026-07-03T08:08:31.546Z'
author: 
description: 'Five of the most common device faults that push people toward buying new - and why each one is usually a quick, inexpensive repair instead.'
image: 
published: 2026-07-03T08:08:31.546Z
type: 'article'
url: https://www.repatch.co.uk/right-to-repair/dont-upgrade-yet-5-common-device-faults-that-are-surprisingly-cheap-to-fix
id: 6a476dff2f84d830f186e172
---

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It's easy to assume a broken device means it's time to shop for a new one. In reality, most of the faults that push people toward an upgrade are quick, inexpensive repairs. Here are five of the most common.

## 1. Cracked screen

A **cracked screen** looks dramatic, but on most **phones**, **tablets**, and **laptops** it's a straightforward panel swap. It doesn't touch the internals, the battery, or your storage.

## 2. Battery drain

If your device suddenly needs charging twice a day, the **battery** - not the whole device - is usually the problem. A **battery replacement** is one of the cheapest, highest-impact repairs available.

## 3. Charging port issues

A cable that needs "just the right angle" to charge is almost always a worn **charging port**, not a failing device. It's a small, contained fix.

## 4. Speaker or microphone faults

Muffled calls or crackling audio are commonly dust, moisture, or a worn speaker component - all repairable without replacing the device.

## 5. Slow performance

Before assuming your device is simply "too old," a slowdown is often a full storage drive, a failing drive, or too many background processes - all fixable, often without any new hardware at all.

## The takeaway

None of these faults require a new device. They require the right diagnosis.

**Repatch** collects your device from home or work, has it assessed by a professional technician, and returns it repaired - often within **2 hours** - so you can find out what's actually wrong before spending on a replacement.