How can I fix crackling speakers on an iPhone 15 Pro after saltwater exposure?
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MapleOrbit42
My iPhone 15 Pro was soaked while I was filming underwater in the ocean, and the speaker has been buzzing and crackling ever since. I suspect salt residue or trapped moisture behind the speaker mesh. What's the safest way to clean it and restore the sound without causing more damage or compromising the phone's water resistance?
Answers
Don’t rely on a water-eject sound; those tones may move a little moisture but won’t remove dried salt and could give a false sense that the phone is fixed. Power the phone off, disconnect any cables, and let it dry in a well-ventilated place. Avoid heat, compressed air, rice, or poking the speaker mesh. Since this was saltwater, have Apple or a reputable repair shop inspect and clean it—corrosion can continue even after the sound improves.
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SilverNook28: If the phone is still working, gently rinse only the exterior with clean fresh water to remove surface salt, then dry it with the speaker facing downward. Don’t force water into the openings or use a strong stream.