Does Apple Cover Water-Damaged iPhones?
Unfortunately, Apple does not cover water damage under its standard warranty, even if your iPhone is advertised as water-resistant. This means that if your device gets damaged by water or any other liquid, you won’t be able to claim a free repair or replacement through the regular warranty. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Apple’s Warranty Policy on Water Damage
Apple’s limited one-year warranty and AppleCare+ specifically state that liquid damage is not covered. Even though newer iPhones come with water-resistant ratings (IP67 or IP68), this does not mean they are waterproof, and Apple does not guarantee against water damage.
2. AppleCare+ Coverage
If you have AppleCare+, there is a bit of relief. While water damage is still not covered as a free repair, AppleCare+ allows for accidental damage coverage. This means you can get a water-damaged iPhone repaired or replaced for a reduced service fee:
- For accidental damage, including liquid damage, you might pay a set fee (around $99/£79) per incident instead of the full out-of-warranty repair cost.
- AppleCare+ provides coverage for up to two incidents of accidental damage every 12 months.
3. Out-of-Warranty Repairs
If your iPhone is water-damaged and you do not have AppleCare+, your only option through Apple is to pay for an out-of-warranty repair or replacement. This can be quite expensive, often costing hundreds of dollars/pounds, especially for newer models. In some cases, the cost might be close to buying a new phone altogether.
4. How to Check for Water Damage
Apple uses Liquid Contact Indicators (LCIs) inside the iPhone to determine if it has been exposed to water or other liquids. These indicators are usually white or silver, but they turn red when they come into contact with liquid. If you take your iPhone to an Apple Store or authorised repair centre, they will check these indicators to determine if your device has sustained liquid damage.
You can also check for water damage yourself by:
- Removing the SIM card tray and shining a light into the slot. If you see a red mark, it means the LCI has been activated, indicating water damage.
5. What to Do If Your iPhone Gets Water-Damaged
If your iPhone has water damage and isn’t covered by Apple’s warranty or AppleCare+, consider bringing it to a trusted third-party repair service like EziPhoneRepair. We can often fix water damage for a more affordable price than Apple’s out-of-warranty service. Our technicians are experienced in cleaning and repairing liquid-damaged devices, and we use high-quality parts to ensure your iPhone is back in working condition.
Final Thoughts
Although iPhones are marketed as water-resistant, it’s essential to understand their limitations and avoid exposure to water whenever possible. Unfortunately, water damage isn’t covered under Apple’s standard warranty, but there are still options available if your device gets wet. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to repair a water-damaged iPhone, consider getting in touch with us at EziPhoneRepair.
Need Help With Water-Damaged iPhones? Contact EziPhoneRepair Today!
