The biggest advantage and disadvantage of an iPod is its small shape. For such a small device, iPod media can hold thousands of mp3 files. With its portability, an increase in mishaps is sure to occur. From common scratches to hard drive problems, an iPod’s biggest selling point can also be its biggest downside.

The following are the most common repair problems:

1. Dropped: It’s as easy as handing it over to someone to look at or even pulling it out of your pocket. Dropping an iPod can happen at any time. This can result in minor cosmetic issues that can be ignored or major hard drive problems that need to be sent to a specialist for repair.

2. Scratching: Scratching an iPod is as easy as scratching a cell phone. With its increased daily use, the iPod is not only used occasionally, it is a common accessory.

3. Falling into the water: How many times have you dropped your cell phone in the water? Today, dropping an iPod in water can happen just as easily.

4. Exposure to extreme weather conditions – Depending on where you live, weather conditions can affect your iPod. From the heavy rainfall in Seattle to the snowy weather in the Northeast, or even the scorching sun in the South, any severe weather condition can affect your iPod and cause needed repairs.

5. Dirt: With regular use, dirt can accumulate on the iPod. In many cases cleaning is needed.

6. Flex: Even though there is an increase in clothing designers catering to the iPod user designing storage units in many jackets, shirts and pants, it is possible for them to bend and crack. Many people keep their iPods in their back pockets and mishaps can occur when sitting down.

7. Broken screens: One of the main repairs is LCD repair. Screen breakage or cracking can occur in many ways, accidentally or even with normal use.

8. Hard drives: The most expensive repair is the hard drive. For whatever reason, these devices may stop working normally. The hard drive may need to be updated or replaced.

9. Headphone Plugs – With continuous use, the headphone plug may loosen or even break. Repair is needed as it is the source for listening.

10. Battery: Over time, battery life can become too short or even malfunction. A battery update may be required.

These are just some of the problems you may face with an iPod. With care and foresight, many of these can be limited. To reduce iPod repair problems, be sure to use a protective case and use caution and care.