Symptoms
- Faint rattling sound when shaking the phone gently
- Started right after a drop
- Phone otherwise functions normally
Likely causes
- CommonLoose internal screw or bracketImpacts can jar small fasteners loose inside the housing.
- CommonCamera lens element or OIS (image stabilization) mechanism shiftedCamera modules with moving stabilization parts can rattle if the mechanism is jarred.
- PossibleLoose battery connector or internal cableLess common but possible with a hard impact.
What to do
- Test the camera for blurry or shaky photos/video, which points to the stabilization mechanism as the source.
- Avoid shaking the phone repeatedly to 'diagnose' it, since this could worsen a loose part.
- Check that the case or a loose SIM tray isn't the actual source of the sound before assuming it's internal.
- Note whether the rattle changes when you tilt the phone in different directions.
- If the rattle is accompanied by camera issues or gets worse, have a technician open it up to check and re-secure the part.
When to call a pro
A repair technician can open the phone and re-secure or replace whatever component has come loose, often without needing major parts.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.