Swollen mobile phone battery: What you should do now

If the back or the display of your smartphone is lifting, a swollen battery may be the cause. Do not continue using the device and do not charge it. A deformed battery is damaged and can pose a fire hazard.

What you should do now

Only switch off the device if it is safe to do so. Do not press on the bulge and do not attempt to glue the display or back panel back down. Do not open the device yourself and do not puncture the battery.

Keep it away from heat and flammable objects as far as safely possible. In the event of smoke, hissing, intense heat, or fire, get to safety, keep your distance, and call 112 in an emergency. Do not carry a suspicious device to the workshop.

Which signs are important?

A visible gap, a lifted back panel, or a shifted display should be checked. A wobbly case alone does not prove battery damage, as camera modules can also protrude. Do not apply pressure to test the cause.

Why can a battery swell?

Damage, stress, and aging can lead to changes in the battery. Not every old battery swells; no definitive diagnosis can be derived from the age of the device or the purchase price of the accessories. Use only undamaged charging accessories suitable for the device.

Coordinating inspection and battery replacement

Battery damage can also affect the display, frame, or other components. First, clarify the model and condition of the device with STARPHONE. Costs depend on the required scope of repair. Our battery replacement page explains model selection and inquiries.

No ordinary parcel shipping

A device with a damaged or swollen battery does not belong in a regular shipping parcel. DHL excludes such batteries from corresponding parcel transport. Observe the DHL guidelines for shipping hazardous materials. An ordinary shipping label does not override this restriction.

Call 0241 4013737 before visiting or sending the device and describe its condition. This way, we can first clarify which acceptance or disposal options are applicable.

Disposing of damaged batteries professionally

Batteries do not belong in household waste. Ask a suitable collection point in advance whether they accept damaged batteries and expressly point out the damage when handing them over. Do not remove a built-in battery yourself.

Further information: German Environment Agency on handling lithium batteries. For a repair request at STARPHONE, you can find contact details and location in Aachen.