Most of us would agree that buying a used car without an inspection or knowledge of its history is risky. We might pay too much for damaged goods, as we won’t know the vehicle’s actual condition or value. The same is true when purchasing a used Android smartphone.
If highly trusted diagnostic software isn’t used to check the mobile phone, you run the risk of buying a stolen, defective, or completely unusable device.
Diagnostic software relays critical information about the condition and performance of a mobile device. The software enables users to run regular checkups, troubleshoot issues, and provide assurance that everything is working correctly.
This complete guide explains everything you need to know about Android diagnostic software, including how to access it on your device and why it’s so important to perform when buying or selling a used phone.
Think of diagnostic software like you would a doctor’s checkup. Much like a physician when they conduct an exam, this software uses diagnostic tools to understand the current health of an Android phone. The test results enable you to diagnose problems and understand the steps needed to restore a phone to its full potential.
Diagnostic software is often capable of checking the following key items and systems on iOS and Android devices:
An audio system diagnostic test checks microphones, speakers, volume buttons, and headphones to establish that they’re functioning correctly. The LCD screen test ensures the display is original to the phone and that there are no dead pixels. An assessment of sensors and network connectivity includes a look at Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, light sensors, and near-field communication (NFC) technology. Lastly, the touch diagnostic tool checks the touch screen and other touch points and methods, like multi-touch and 3D touch.
The best Android diagnostic software for used phones should also perform an authenticity check. This test confirms the status of a phone’s cameras, LCD screen, touch ID button, battery, and motherboard and notes any repairs or non-OEM replacement parts. Replacement parts are common in used phones up for resale, as many phones have been previously repaired.
OEM stands for “original equipment manufacturer,” which means an OEM part is from the original maker of the device. It’s important to know if there are any non-OEM parts in a mobile device because they can decrease the item’s value and void all warranties. Non-OEM part quality tends to be poorer than the original manufacturer part quality, too.
Despite talking into your phone every day, it still can’t talk back to you about its problems. Luckily, we can better understand our Apple and Android devices with diagnostic software. Diagnostic software can run on the phone by using certain codes to access the system or through a third-party app, depending on the mobile device and service carrier.
Android diagnostic software aims to gather metrics and performance information from the electronic device and then relay the results in a written format. In some instances, the software performs automated tests independently. Other times, a user has to choose to run a diagnostic test on their phone or with an Android app.
Once the diagnostic software reaches a conclusion, it compiles the information into a report. These results give you an overview of how the device is working and help you understand what to address to achieve optimal performance.
Companies run Android diagnostic software for various reasons. Perhaps you need to check a used or trade-in phone before buying or selling it, for instance. Here’s some information about accessing diagnostics on multiple Android devices. Note that some phones have built-in diagnostic tools, while others may require you to download a diagnostic solution like Phonecheck, which can run natively on any Windows PC.
Please be aware that accessing diagnostic software varies among brands and can also differ between models of the same brand. It’s best to check a phone’s original user manual for the most accurate step-by-step instructions, but here’s an idea of what to expect.
If you have a Samsung Galaxy phone, you can access built-in diagnostic software from your keypad (if a third party hasn’t diasbled this feature). Open your keypad as if to dial a phone number and enter * # 0 * # to bring up a hidden diagnostic menu. Then, tap on the specific test(s) you want to conduct and review the results. To exit the tool, tap the back button to return to your phone’s home screen.
It’s possible this code won’t work because you don’t have the right permissions from your phone carrier. Some carriers disable built-in features so they can offer their own diagnostic software to help customers. Some countries disable built-in diagnostic software, which might be another reason it’s not working for you. If either of these cases applies, you’ll need to talk to the phone carrier or use an app.
A better option is to look for a complete device certification solution like Phonecheck, which offers automated device diagnostics scans for everything from Wi-Fi connectivity to battery capacity to the accelerometer. It can also detect non-OEM replacement components and alert you.
Motorola uses its own pre-installed app, Device Help, to run diagnostics on Motorola phones. Open the app and select “Device diagnosis” to access the testing menu. If there’s something noticeably wrong with the Motorola phone, tap on the “Troubleshoot” button to test features like:
The Device Help app also has a hardware diagnostic option to test things like the proximity sensor and cameras. There’s also the option to run a full device test under the “Hardware” button to see all diagnostics for your phone.
How to access diagnostics on a Google phone depends on the device. First, try entering * # 0 * # on the phone’s keypad to see if that code opens a diagnostics menu. If it doesn’t work and you need to troubleshoot phone problems, try the online Pixel Phone Help community. Search for your Google phone’s issue in the community forum and follow the results through to their self-help flow.
You’ll need to enter your Google email and the phone’s international mobile equipment identity (IMEI) number to begin the process. IMEI is like a U.S. Social Security number for a mobile phone. Find this unique 15-digit number by opening the phone’s “Settings” app. Then, tap “About Phone” and scroll to find the IMEI. It’s also usually on the box that came with the phone or in its SIM card tray.
The HwMMITest is a pre-installed app on all Huawei devices used to run diagnostics on the phone. The only way to gain access is to begin in “Settings” and then tap on “Apps.” Then, enable the option that states “Show all system apps” and scroll to find the HwMMITest.
Your current battery level must be between 55% and 80% to run the guided test of the device’s hardware. You may also need to reboot into the bootloader to run the test, the method of which varies between Huawei devices.
Another way to run diagnostics on your phone is to use third-party software to gather and compile the information. This type of software was designed to be fast and efficient. It’s also very easy to access, use, and understand it — no hidden menus or special codes needed. Simply download the software, run the program, and receive a clear report and explanation of a phone’s condition.
It’s also much easier to test large batches of phones with the same third-party software, which helps phone repair and wholesale businesses streamline their processes. Some complete device certification solutions like Phonecheck can also deliver more detailed reports than the basic output you receive from a phone’s built-in diagnostic tool — increasing resale value and generating unique certification reports for every device.
If you’re in the business of selling previously owned phones, you know the importance of having fully functioning, healthy devices ready for buyers.
Enjoying a purchased product of excellent quality builds trust between a business and its customers. A good experience with a retailer may also lead to repeat business and customer referrals. Certifying the quality of your aftermarket phones through comprehensive diagnostic software is a simple way to boost trust among your buyers even more.
Phonecheck is a complete device processing solution with the most trusted used phone certification in the industry. We set the standards for certified used phones. If a mobile device is Phonecheck Certified, it means that it has undergone thorough testing to ensure that it’s:
Phonecheck certification also guarantees that a phone’s battery is working at optimal levels. The full results of each device scan are uploaded to the Phonecheck cloud and are available as a PDF report, too. Custom labels may also be printed and placed on the back of the phone to display certification.
It’s well established that the certification process helps buyers trust sellers, but it also makes it possible for retailers to charge the true (and often higher) value for the phone. More revenue on the bottom line is a great feeling. Our team is also available 24 hours a day, every day to help you get started and lend support. We’re always here for you because we believe in changing this industry for the better.
Phonecheck is the most trusted solution for certifying used devices and increasing trust between buyers and sellers. We believe in total transparency and providing everyone with the information they need to make the best decisions. Avoid costly hidden problems with a complete Phonecheck Device History Report, which includes information like:
We include a device’s repair history in our complete diagnostics report when applicable. We’ve observed that non-OEM replacement components are the fastest-growing problem in the used phone industry today. Our reports help sellers set the correct price point for a used device that contains parts not from the original manufacturers. Sellers can also share data from the report with potential customers.
Diagnostic information helps you to know key information about the past history of a phone before you commit to buying it. Industry-leading Phonecheck reports and certification can give everyone peace of mind that they’re getting exactly what they want and paid a fair price.
Don’t buy a used device without obtaining a Phonecheck Device History Report.
Phonecheck diagnostic software is the best way to bring greater trust to the device aftermarket. With our 80-point diagnostic test, you’ll learn everything possible about an Android phone’s current condition and its history. We also provide ADISA-certified erasure to safely remove all sensitive data before a resale.
Phonecheck is an all-in-one solution that delivers accurate, detailed, and transparent reports for buying, selling, and repairs. Request a demo today and discover how we can help you diagnose devices and increase their resale value today.
