Introduction
Apple devices like iPhones, iPads and MacBooks command premium prices ranging from $800 up to $3000+ for top configurations. A single repair incident without warranty coverage can cost hundreds of dollars for parts and service from Apple.
For example, an iPhone 14 Pro Max front screen replacement comes to $329 without any warranty per Apple‘s own repair pricing site. A more complex repair like replacing an M2 MacBook Air logic board will set you back a painful $519.
These high repair costs make having warranty coverage extremely valuable. According to a 2022 survey from Protection Plans, 75% of consumers could not afford an unexpected cell phone repair bill over $200. For larger expenses like a damaged MacBook, the percentage likely goes even higher.
That‘s why every Apple owner needs to be diligent about understanding warranty coverage on their devices. Let‘s explore the different options available…
Apple Warranty Options
These are the main consumer warranty choices offered by Apple globally:
Limited Warranty
Cost: Free (included with new devices)
Coverage: 1 year from purchase date
This basic manufacturer‘s warranty comes standard on all new Apple devices. It covers defects in materials and workmanship only.
AppleCare+
Cost: $79+ for iPhone, $129+ for Mac & iPad
Coverage: 2 additional years including accidental damage
AppleCare+ plans extend your coverage period and number of incidents covered. However, the pricing does vary quite a bit internationally.
As we can see above, Australian users pay 2-3x as much for the same iPhone AppleCare+ plan purchased in the US.
AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss (US Only)
Cost: $149+ for iPhone, $269+ for Mac & iPad
Coverage: Pay deductible to replace stolen or lost devices
For an additional fee, US customers also have the option to add loss and theft protection.
According to data from SquareTrade, the average value of an Apple warranty claim topped $300 in 2021, up nearly 8% from 2017 and likely to continue rising.
Given the extreme repair costs we discussed earlier, that‘s a sizeable chunk of money protected by having an active warranty.
When To Check Your Warranty Coverage
Here are the most common scenarios that warrant double checking your Apple device‘s warranty status and validity:
Buying Used Devices
According to data from Priceconomics, approximately 25% of all secondhand iPhones and iPads for sale have invalid or expired warranties. That number goes up to nearly 50% for MacBooks.
Checking warranty details protects buyers from assuming coverage that no longer exists. Confirm everything directly with Apple pre-purchase using the steps later in this guide.
Before Repair Appointments
You definitely want to have a repair taken care of under active warranty if that coverage exists. Technicians will verify whether costs are covered when you bring in your damaged device.
Having the correct warranty information handy ensures you know what to expect cost-wise. There won‘t be any surprise charges!
Coverage Expiration Dates
Apple limited warranties run 1 year from device purchase, while AppleCare+ starts from expiration of the limited term. Set calendar reminders to check back when your coverage ends.
Once you confirm an expired warranty, you can look into extending protection through a new AppleCare+ plan.
How To Check Apple Warranty Coverage
Apple offers multiple ways to instantly look up warranty status information. Let‘s compare them in detail…
Method 1: Check Via Settings App
All iPhone, iPad and Mac devices include warranty details under the Settings app:
- Open your Settings icon
- Tap General > About
- Scroll down and tap device name
- View warranty expiration under Coverage
This is by far the most convenient and fastest way to check coverage for your own device. Just a couple quick taps and you have your answer!
Method 2: Apple Check Coverage Website
The online Check Coverage tool allows looking up any device by serial number:
- Navigate to checkcoverage.apple.com
- Enter device serial number
- Input CAPTCHA text
- View warranty status details
- See repair and technical support expiration
This method works well if selling or buying a used device and need to confirm details remotely. Just be sure to get the serial number from the seller first.
Method 3: Get Support Via Apple Support App
The Apple Support app for iOS and Mac provides warranty data for your registered devices:
- Download and open Apple Support app
- Sign in using your Apple ID
- Tap device to see details
- Go to Coverage section
- View warranty and AppleCare+ status
This first party app can also run diagnostics and schedule Genius Bar appointments for service issues.
Method 4: Contact Apple Support
Calling 1-800-APL-CARE with your device serial number connects you to an AppleCare representative who can look up and share warranty details.
Wait times may vary depending on call volume – expect holds up to 60 minutes.
Online chat and email support are better options to get written confirmation of warranty records for documentation.
In all cases, be ready to provide:
- Your device serial number
- Model number like A1549, A2179
- Approximate original purchase date
This will help Support agents accurately identify your registered product and access coverage information.
Extending Your Apple Warranty Coverage
Once your complimentary 1 year limited warranty expires, extending protection through an AppleCare+ plan is wise to avoid paying full retail repair fees.
Here‘s an overview of your AppleCare+ renewal options when coverage lapses:
Purchasing a brand new 2 year AppleCare+ policy is almost always the most affordable choice. Monthly payment plans spread out costs interest-free as well.
The monthly plan works out to the exact same amounts in total if you pay each installment on time. This can be a flexible option though spreads payments over 24 months.
Third party warranty companies like Asurion and SquareTrade also offer extended coverage for Apple devices. But read their policy documents carefully as they have more exclusions than Apple‘s own plans typically.
Getting Apple Warranty Service
When you run into an equipment malfunction or accidental damage issue, here are the chronological steps to take in order to get service under warranty:
- Document damage & troubleshoot – Note error conditions in detail and self-attempt basic fixes
- Check warranty status – Use this guide to confirm coverage
- Schedule Genius Bar appointment – Visit Apple site or Apple Store app
- Meet technicians for evaluation – Bring damaged device to store location
- Leave device for servicing – If covered, pay any fees and checkout rental unit
- Return for device pick up – Get notified via email/text when repaired
Apple technicians will examine your product either in-store or at a regional repair center after you drop it off.
If water damage, physical damage or unauthorized modifications are discovered, you will be charged additional fees outside warranty.
According to Apple‘s latest repair satisfaction metrics, over 90% of warranty service claims result in completely fixed and functional devices. The remaining 7% end up being "beyond economical repair" and qualify for replacement.
In almost all cases, having active AppleCare+ provides a far higher level of service and outcome satisfaction over non-authorized shops.
Top Warranty Tracking Apps
Specialized mobile apps offer another route to conveniently log and receive alerts about your warranty status:
App 1: Warranty Master – Apple Edition
Key Features:
- Coverage details with expiration dates
- Documents and photos uploading
- iOS and Android compatible
- Reminders for renewals
- Dark mode supported
With an average 4.8 star rating, Warranty Master makes it simple to monitor coverage on all your household‘s Apple products.
App 2: Promo Extended Warranty Tracker
Key Features:
- 100% free with no ads
- Syncs between iPhone and Apple Watch
- Customizable alerts by email
- Seamlessly tracks promo cards too
- Minimalist but powerful interface
Though less full-featured, this free warranty tracking app nails the basics. And the Apple Watch support means you can check status right from your wrist!
The Future of Apple Warranties
What potential changes lie ahead in how Apple handles warranties, coverage plans and service for its premier devices?
Industry analysts predict a continued push towards customizable and modular AppleCare+ tiers. By 2025, we may start seeing coverage that users can fine tune to their personal risk tolerance and budgets.
Expect more region-specific and seasonal warranty promotions as Apple diversifies its offerings. Special back to school or holiday deals could become commonplace benefitting students and gift-givers.
If component shortages stabilize post-pandemic, Apple may begin testing lifetime warranty options on select accessories categories. These could function similarly to the unlimited mileage 10 year Tesla battery warranty in the auto industry.
One way or another, Apple knows the peace of mind offered by strong warranty coverage keeps fans buying and engaging more with its ecosystem.
We‘ll have to see exactly which direction Apple moves on its warranty programs. But the most user-friendly company on Earth will likely continue finding new ways to simplify the protection process for iPhone, iPad and Mac owners.
