What is the AppleCare Screen Replacement Policy?

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Updated March 21, 2023

When looking at various insurance plans, you may wonder about the AppleCare screen replacement policy. When you purchase an iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or MacBook, you will get a limited manufacturer’s warranty that lasts one year and can purchase additional coverage via AppleCare. Depending on the issue, you can get the screen replaced via either option. The manufacturer’s warranty only fixes the screen if it is due to a manufacturing error, which goes along with the standard Apple iPhone warranty.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • AppleCare will fix screen damage on your device in the case of a manufacturing error via the limited warranty.
  • If you want a screen replacement that is caused by accidental damage, enroll in AppleCare+. This is also the case for battery service and battery replacement.
  • Be sure to enroll before the eligibility period ends for priority access, which is typically 90 days after you purchase the product from the Apple store or online.

Apple’s Screen Replacement Policy

If you are under warranty and the screen fails due to faulty components or shoddy workmanship, Apple will repair or replace it for free as part of the phone warranty or the Apple Watch warranty. If the damage is due to user error or normal wear and tear, you need a dedicated AppleCare plan to fix the screen, which is how an Apple Airpods warranty works.

Buying into AppleCare does not make screen repairs absolutely free, as there will still be a nominal service fee that varies depending on the damage and the type of product you are repairing, which is just like a Whirlpool appliances warranty.

Tips to Ensure Coverage

If you are opting into an AppleCare plan for your Apple device, here are some tips to make sure you are provided excellent coverage that will handle any display issues that pop up.

Act Quickly

Don’t forget to actually, you know, opt into AppleCare within the pre-approved time limit. You don’t have that long to sign up for Apple’s proprietary insurance and extended warranty service upon purchasing a new product, so have at it. The timeframe differs depending on the product, but in most cases, you have 90 days from the point of purchase to enroll the device with AppleCare. Some devices shorten this span to 60 days or even 30 days. In other words, read the fine print and make haste.

Choose the Right Plan

Make sure the AppleCare plan you choose offers full insurance coverage for the display. You want AppleCare+ coverage that handles screen issues related to accidental damage and user error. Otherwise, it is just an extended warranty, which isn’t bad, per se, but not that comprehensive. You can peruse plans online or even on the device itself, provided it is an iPhone or iPad.

STAT: AppleCare+ is Apple’s brand name for extended warranty and technical support plans for their devices. AppleCare+ extends the devices’ one-year limited warranty and 90 days of technical support. (source)

AppleCare Screen FAQs

How can I get an iPhone screen repaired?

You can head to a one-stop service shop or to an Apple Store to start the repair process. Another option is to talk to experts by chat. You should be able to get things squared via a single conversation.

Why is it so expensive to fix an iPhone?

Apple iPhones, Apple Watch devices, and related gadgets are complex bits of gear, making repairs on the expensive side. Keep your proof of purchase handy just in case you need it.

When should I buy insurance?

You want to buy insurance as early as possible to ensure hardware repair coverage and accidental damage protection, and to ensure coverage for unlimited incidents.
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