When I was using my iPhone one day the backlight stopped working. I charged it and checked the next morning but it still didn't work. I restarted it, reset it, and restored it but it still didn't work. Is it possible to fix it or replace it without having to pay $600!!!?
Assuming you do not have AppleCare for the 3G...then out of warranty means you will have to pay to replace if the screen is truly defective...happily there are cheap optopns like using eBay to find parts...then there are the options that Apple ofers out of warranty phones...
If your iPhone is no longer under warranty, as already provided Apple offers an out of warranty or not covered under the warranty "repair" price, which pays for an exchange at a discounted price. Apple's out of warranty or not covered under the warranty "repair" or exchange price is $199 plus tax.
If there is an Apple store nearby, I would make an appointment at an Apple store.
I don't know if an out of warranty or not covered under the warranty exchange can be done over the phone but if so, you must give a credit card number not only for the cost of the exchange but also in case you don't return your existing iPhone, and you will pay for shipping.