How We Refurbish Phones at UsedMobiles4U
tested, cleaned, graded and prepared for resale in the UK, with clear aftercare if you ever need it.This page explains exactly how we refurbish phones, how we verify battery health and functionality,
and what standards we use before any device is listed for sale.
What “Refurbished” Means at UsedMobiles4U
A used phone is simply a pre-owned device. A refurbished phone has been professionally
checked and approved for resale after passing defined quality checks.
For us, “refurbished” means:
- Each phone is individually tested for hardware and software functionality
- Battery health is verified against minimum standards
- Devices are graded for cosmetic condition (appearance)
- Phones are securely wiped and factory reset
- Clear aftercare: warranty + returns support in the UK
If you’re comparing terminology, our explainer may help:
Refurbished vs Used Phones.
Our Phone Testing Process (Step by Step)
Every phone we sell is checked using professional diagnostics and inspection steps.
We use a diagnostic approach comparable to tools widely used in the industry (for context, see
Phonecheck).
1) IMEI & status checks
We verify device identity and status before anything else. For additional context on UK device history checks,
see CheckMEND.
2) Full hardware diagnostics
We test the core components that affect day-to-day reliability, including:
- Touchscreen and display
- Front and rear cameras
- Speakers and microphone
- Buttons and switches
- Biometrics where applicable (Face ID / Touch ID)
- Sensors (e.g., proximity, accelerometer) and charging
- Connectivity checks (Wi-Fi / Bluetooth)
3) Battery health verification
Battery health is tested as part of our process. Details on our minimum standards are explained in the
Battery Health section below.
4) Network & SIM testing
We verify that devices are ready for use on UK networks. All devices are sold SIM-free and/or unlocked as listed.
If you’re buying a network-locked device elsewhere, your network is usually the safest route for unlocking
guidance (see Ofcom for UK telecoms information).
5) Data wipe, reset & clean setup
Before dispatch, devices are securely wiped, factory reset and prepared for a clean setup by the new owner.
(For general data protection guidance in the UK, see the
Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).)
Prefer a shorter overview? You can also read our existing guide:
Refurbished Phone Guide.
Battery Health Standards
Battery condition is one of the biggest differences between a great refurbished phone and a disappointing one.
That’s why battery health is checked as part of our refurbishment process.
- Minimum standard: we list devices with 85%+ battery health (as stated on-site).
- If a device does not meet our standard, it is repaired/re-batteried or removed from sale.
- Battery standards apply regardless of cosmetic grade.
If you’re choosing between models, battery health is one reason many buyers prefer purchasing from a refurbisher
(rather than private sales).
Cosmetic Grading (Condition)
We grade phones by cosmetic condition (appearance). Functionality is verified through testing for every device,
regardless of grade.
For a full breakdown of what each grade means, see:
Refurbished iPhone Grades Explained (A/B/C).
What We Don’t Sell
Clear standards include clear exclusions. To protect buyers, we do not list devices that don’t meet our requirements.
- Phones that fail diagnostics or have unresolved faults
- Devices that cannot be securely wiped and factory reset
- Phones that cannot meet our battery health standard
- Devices that don’t match the listing condition/grade expectations after checks
Warranty, Returns & UK Support
We back our refurbished and used phones with aftercare designed to reduce risk compared to private sales.
- 12-month warranty (see our warranty explainer)
- 30-day returns (see full returns policy)
- UK-based support via the contact details on our FAQ page
Helpful links:
Returns Policy ·
Start a Return ·
Warranty for Refurbished Phones (What’s Covered) ·
Product Terms & Conditions ·
FAQs (including contact details)
For independent background on UK distance selling rights, you can read the UK government guidance on
consumer contracts:
Online and distance selling rules (GOV.UK).
Why Buy Refurbished Instead of New?
Refurbished phones can be a smarter choice when you want dependable performance while spending less than new retail prices.
Many buyers also choose refurbished to reduce electronic waste and extend the life of high-quality devices.
If you’re still deciding, our guides may help:
Are Refurbished iPhones Safe? ·
Are Refurbished iPhones Worth It?
Ready to Shop?
Browse our current stock of refurbished and used phones:
Want quick answers before you buy?
View our FAQs.
