It’s a common scenario: you’ve unfortunately cracked your iPhone screen. Immediately, questions flood your mind, and among the most pressing is likely, “Can I buy AppleCare+ now to cover this repair?” At Car Repair Online, we understand these concerns, and we’re here to provide clarity on your iPhone screen repair options, especially when it comes to AppleCare+.
Can You Purchase AppleCare+ After Screen Damage?
Generally, no, you cannot purchase AppleCare+ to cover a pre-existing screen crack or damage. AppleCare+, Apple’s extended warranty and support plan, is designed to be purchased when your device is new or shortly after. It’s essentially an insurance policy for your iPhone, and like most insurance, you can’t buy it after the incident you want to claim for has already occurred.
Think of it like car insurance. You can’t get car insurance after you’ve already been in an accident and expect it to cover the damages. AppleCare+ operates on a similar principle. It’s meant to protect you from unexpected future issues, including accidental damage, but not damage that has already happened.
What if You Already Have AppleCare+?
If you were proactive and purchased AppleCare+ when you got your iPhone, you’re in a much better position for screen repair. AppleCare+ provides coverage for accidental damage, including screen damage. Here’s what AppleCare+ offers for screen repairs:
- Reduced Screen Repair Cost: With AppleCare+, you’ll pay a significantly lower service fee (a deductible) for screen repair compared to out-of-warranty repair costs.
- Genuine Apple Parts and Expert Service: Apple Authorized Service Providers and Apple Stores use genuine Apple parts for repairs, ensuring quality and maintaining your device’s integrity.
- Convenient Service Options: You can schedule a visit to an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider, or send your iPhone in for repair by mail.
Having AppleCare+ significantly simplifies and reduces the cost of iPhone screen repairs due to accidental damage.
iPhone screen repair service options include sending your device in for repair.
iPhone Screen Repair Options Without AppleCare+
If you don’t have AppleCare+, don’t worry; you still have options for repairing your cracked iPhone screen. However, it will be considered an out-of-warranty repair, and you will be responsible for the full cost. Your main options include:
- Apple Authorized Service Provider or Apple Store: This is the most reliable option, ensuring genuine Apple parts and service. You can schedule an appointment online or through the Apple Support app. While it might be pricier than other options, you get the peace of mind of Apple-certified repair.
- Independent Repair Shops: There are numerous third-party repair shops that offer iPhone screen repair services. Costs can vary, and the quality of parts and service may not be guaranteed to be the same as Apple’s. Be cautious and research the shop’s reputation before choosing this option. Using non-genuine parts may also affect your iPhone’s warranty or future service eligibility from Apple.
Understanding the Cost of iPhone Screen Repair
The cost of iPhone screen repair depends on several factors, including your iPhone model and whether you have AppleCare+.
- With AppleCare+: You’ll typically pay a service fee, which is significantly less than the full out-of-warranty cost. These fees vary by country and AppleCare+ plan.
- Without AppleCare+ (Out-of-Warranty): The cost can range from a couple of hundred dollars to over $300 USD, depending on your iPhone model. Apple’s website has a tool to estimate the repair cost for your specific device. Independent repair shops might offer lower prices, but again, consider the potential trade-offs in part quality and service reliability.
You can use Apple’s “Get an Estimate” tool to get an idea of potential costs for out-of-warranty repair directly from Apple. Keep in mind that prices can vary slightly depending on the service provider you choose.
Planning Ahead: AppleCare+ is a Proactive Choice
While you can’t buy AppleCare+ after your screen is broken to cover that specific repair, this situation highlights the value of having AppleCare+ in the first place. It’s a worthwhile investment for many iPhone users, especially considering the cost of screen repairs and other potential accidental damage.
For future iPhones, consider purchasing AppleCare+ when you buy your device. It provides peace of mind and can save you significant money and hassle if accidents happen.
If you need to repair your iPhone screen now, explore the options mentioned above and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. For accurate cost estimates and to schedule a repair, we recommend visiting the official Apple Support website or using the Apple Support app.
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iPhone Screen Repair
iPhone screen repairs are performed by certified experts using genuine Apple displays.
