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Published on: 11.02.2024 | updated on: 02.04.2024
Apple is a pioneer when it comes to introducing gadgets with the most advanced features, especially in their iPhones. However, no matter how durable the iPhone is, if not taken care of, can break or sustain damage easily. Breaking a device you spent hundreds of dollars on, or even more than a thousand if you settle for the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max, can be frustrating. While minor damages can be fixed immediately by DIY, severe issues may only be fixed by professionals. Luckily, there are multiple repair options you can opt for, such as Apple's official repair service or local repair services.
In this article, we will discuss if it’s worth repairing your iPhone, the option of DIY and professional repair services, as well as other important considerations to keep in mind before settling on repair.
Deciding whether to repair your iPhone or not depends on numerous things, such as the type of damage, the model and age of your device, the costs associated with repair, and where are you getting it repaired from. Minor damage, such as a battery or screen replacement, can often be done by yourself if you have the right tools and skills. However, complex issues such as damage to the internal components are best handled by the technicians.
When making a decision to repair or buy the iPhone, it’s important to weigh the cost of repair against the price of the new iPhone model and also take into account the latest features and advanced technologies that it offers.
Repairing your iPhone is significantly cheaper, especially if the damage is minor, such as screen or battery replacement. By replacing these components, you can increase the lifespan of your iPhone and also improve its functionality. However, the repair is only cost-effective if your iPhone is not too old and doesn’t face any other issues. On the other hand, buying a new iPhone is worth the money if your repair cost is close to or equal to the value of the new device.
For instance, the average iPhone repair cost in the US is $110.88. However, the cost may increase in case of damage to the internal components of the iPhone due to exposure to liquid.
Buying a new iPhone is expensive, especially if you are investing in the latest model, such as the iPhone 15 Pro, for which starting price is $999. However, it’s worth the high tag as your device will come with a warranty and advanced features that will enhance the overall user experience.
Therefore, to choose between repairing an iPhone and buying a new device, it’s important to do a cost comparison and also the factors that can influence your decision.
If you have damaged your phone and want to get it repaired, you only have two ways to do so. Either do it yourself or take your device to a professional repair service. Both approaches have their own pros and cons. Some enjoy the thrill and excitement of opening up their device and fixing it for themselves, enjoying the process, and experiencing the engineering of the device.
On the other hand, some would prefer a repair professional to deal with the iPhone damage. This helps them save time and the learning curve of understanding the complex structure device and the internal components. But a professional repair service can cost you twice or thrice and even more than the cost of a DIY.
Surely, doing it yourself sounds like a better idea for cutting costs, but there are certain advantages and disadvantages that come with a DIY approach.
Listed below are the advantages of a DIY repair:
Performing repairs yourself instead of hiring someone can save you a lot of money on labor costs. Even with the cost of tools or parts you need to purchase, DIY repairs are usually much cheaper overall.
DIY repairs also offer greater convenience. There's no need to schedule appointments or wait for a professional. Individuals can tackle the problem at their own pace and timing, making it especially suitable for urgent or minor issues that can be addressed immediately without the delay of arranging an appointment.
When you work on repairs yourself, you gain practical knowledge about how the device functions. Understanding the inner components can help you diagnose or handle issues more effectively in the future.
Listed below are the disadvantages of a DIY repair:
DIY repair, especially for beginners, often leads to mishandling of tools or components. This lack of expertise can result in improper disassembly or reassembly, potentially causing further damage to the item.
Safety is a major concern in DIY repairs. Without proper knowledge and safety equipment, individuals put themselves at risk of injuries. Electrical repairs, in particular, can be hazardous, posing risks of electric shock. Additionally, the use of tools and batteries without proper safety measures can lead to accidents.
DIY repairs can void your iPhone warranty. Most manufacturers require that repairs be carried out by certified professionals to keep the warranty valid. By undertaking DIY repairs, individuals risk losing Apple's warranty coverage.
Seeking professional help for repairs and maintenance has several key benefits compared to DIY options. While do-it-yourself repairs may seem cheaper and more convenient upfront, turning to authorized service technicians is often a wiser long-term choice in many situations.
Professionals have years of specialized training and access to equipment and materials that the average person does not possess. This allows them to accurately diagnose problems and carry out repairs effectively.
Repairs done by authorized providers are usually backed by service warranties and performance guarantees. So if issues recur shortly after repair service, you can bring it back to the shop and get it fixed for free. This offers customers peace of mind that a job was done right.
Professional repair stores such as Apple or those associated with Simply Fixable have access to high-quality parts to use in your iPhone.
Although DIY options may seem cheaper, opting for a professional service is your best bet for safe, reliable, and lasting repairs.
Repairing an iPhone doesn’t come cheap. However, the cost largely depends on the type of damage and the model of your iPhone. Repair type, DIY, or professional repair service may also impact the costs of fixing the iPhone.
DIY iPhone repair is less costly than professional repair services. However, you have to ensure that you possess the necessary skills and tools to perform the repair on your iPhone. The average DIY cost for iPhone screen replacement is between $100 and $120, $10 to $50 for battery replacement, and $20 to $140 for charging port repair.
You’ve two options to get your iPhone repaired from a professional repair cost: Apple and a local repair store. The average cost of iPhone repair at Apple is $261.85. At local stores such as Simply Fixable, the average iPhone repair cost is $110.88 with a 90-day minimum warranty.
It's been more than a decade since the first iPhone was released. Today, the iPhone continues to be a dominant player in the global smartphone market. Since the iPhone 15, Apple currently offers 4 main iPhone models to cater to different consumer price points and feature needs.
iPhone
The standard iPhone 15 delivers a balance of performance and value as an accessible entry device into Apple’s ecosystem. With durable build quality and an all-day battery for calls, texts, music, and social media on the go, it meets the needs of casual users who want iOS convenience at an affordable price.
iPhone Plus
For those wanting a bigger display in the standard tier, the iPhone 15 Plus features the same performance and dual camera configuration as the standard iPhone 15 while stretching the screen to 6.7 inches. The Plus model offers a fantastic battery life and a larger screen for mobile gaming.
iPhone Pro
The iPhone 15 Pro boosts creativity and productivity for a wide range of users. It boasts a triple camera module headed by a 48MP main sensor. It also offers Apple’s latest innovation, Dynamic Island and ProMotion technology.
iPhone Pro Max
The iPhone 15 Pro Max supersizes the display to 6.7”. With a large memory and the same advanced triple camera module as the smaller Pro version, it’s built to help users manage creativity, gaming, and media while lasting all day.
Newer Models vs Older Models Needing Repair
Apple introduced its latest iPhone series last year, and since then, it has been getting rave reviews due to its advanced features and technology. If you want to invest in a new iPhone, there are many options on Apple’s website. But, before making a decision, consider these factors:
The latest iPhones, including iPhone 14 and 15, come with a super retina XDR display, which has vibrant colors and high brightness, a feature that was not introduced in older models.
New iPhone models offer better camera performance than its previous models: 12MP in iPhone 14, and it jumped to 48MP in the latest iPhone 15 series.
Apart from the improved hardware, the new range offers a fast processor with an A17 Pro chip with a 6-core GPU.
Every year, Apple introduces an iPhone range with better and improved features than the previous lines of phones. No matter how old your current iPhone model is, if you wish to invest in a new device, you’ll get a better return on your money in terms of quality and performance.
Having first launched in 2007, Apple has done an impressive job keeping the iPhone not just relevant but consistently upgrading it with capabilities, performance, and innovation. Each new iPhone model comes with advancements like improved processors, more features, and optimized iOS software to enhance the user experience.
The latest iPhone 15 lineup offers features and performance that still outperforms many Android rivals and will likely receive software updates for 5+ years, strengthening its lifespan. By balancing premium hardware refinements with an incredible user experience, the iPhone has developed a loyal customer base that very few manufacturers have been able to.
Answering this question isn’t a simple yes or no. Surely, fixing a damaged iPhone is worth it, but there are certain factors to consider before ultimately deciding what to do. As with any technology product, there comes a point where it is smarter to just upgrade the device.
Apps
Older iPhones may lose support for newer app versions and features on outdated iOS versions.
Software Updates
iPhones more than 5 to 6 years old likely lack access to recent iOS updates, which fix bugs and bring new capabilities.
Repair Cost
Spending a lot of money on repairs might not be worth it if the price of repair is higher than the cost of replacement.
Rapidly Evolving Technology
Major recent advancements like 5G connectivity, AI-enhanced cameras, Dynamic Island, and other features may be inaccessible on older phones.
The warranty included with every new iPhone provides complimentary hardware repair coverage for one year after purchase. This protects against defects in materials or workmanship.
AppleCare, on the other hand, is an optional extended warranty coverage that can be purchased to extend this protection for up to two additional years or more in some cases. Another difference is that with the standard one-year limited warranty, any damage like cracked screens or water damage is not covered; only manufacturing issues are covered. AppleCare+ packages add incident coverage for accidental damage.
Apple’s standard warranty, typically lasting one year, covers manufacturing defects but not accidental damage. If your iPhone’s issue falls under this warranty, it’s advisable to use Apple’s services for repair, as it won’t incur additional costs and ensures quality service.
AppleCare, an extended warranty program, offers more comprehensive coverage. It includes accidental damage and extends the warranty period, making it a valuable option for those prone to accidents or wanting longer security. However, it's important to note that it doesn't cover loss or theft.
In scenarios where the warranty has expired or the damage isn't covered, like water damage or DIY repairs, the cost of repair can be significant. In these cases, one must weigh the cost of repair against the price of a new device and decide accordingly.
Repairing an iPhone the right way improves how you use it and makes it last longer. When parts like batteries degrade or screens break, using the device becomes a hassle. Fixing these issues properly brings back the iPhone's best features, like clear sound, sharp pictures, smooth touch, and long battery life.
If you try to fix it yourself, it might not work as well and could ruin what makes the iPhone so enjoyable. But if you get it fixed by someone who knows what they're doing and uses the right parts for your iPhone model, it'll feel like new again. A well-repaired iPhone will ultimately enhance your user experience in the following ways:
The most noticeable improvement is in the phone's performance. You will experience longer battery life and improved responsiveness, allowing for smoother operation and better multitasking. Enhanced performance will also increase the life of the device, meaning you can go longer without feeling the need to replace it.
Repairing physical damages, such as a cracked screen or faulty buttons, directly enhances usability. A new screen, for example, not only looks better but also responds better to touch, making the user experience more enjoyable.
A well-functioning device reduces frustrations associated with slow performance or damaged hardware. It brings back the joy and efficiency of using an iPhone, especially important for those relying on their phones for daily tasks, entertainment, or work.
If your current iPhone is no longer in working condition, and even repair won’t fix it, it’s time to invest in a new device. But before doing so, here are some of the important factors to help you decide which model you should get:
Spending money on the latest device is a wise decision as it can support new iOS for the coming 5 to 6 years. For daily use, you can buy iPhone 14 or iPhone 15.
If you want to use your iPhone for taking pictures and making videos, and at the same time, you want a fast processor and crisp display, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the best choice.
Lastly, depending on your budget and needs, compare the prices of each model and go for what suits your requirements.
Here are the most common iPhone issues faced by most users:
A broken iPhone screen can occur due to a drop or impact. Screen replacement is the most feasible solution to keep your iPhone up and running again.
Your iPhone may refuse to turn on due to a depleted or damaged battery or software glitches. In most cases, a hard reset may usually solve this issue.
iPhone may stop charging due to various issues such as a damaged battery or charging port, software bugs, or exposure to extreme temperatures. Some possible solutions include replacing the battery, cleaning the charging port, and updating your iPhone to the latest iOS.
The iPhone charging port can break if you put pressure on it while charging. The only possible solution is getting your charging port replaced by a reliable repair store.
iPhones tend to overheat due to excessive use of power-intensive applications or exposure to direct sunlight for longer periods. Limit your usage of heavy applications, especially when charging, and avoid using your iPhone in extreme temperatures for longer periods of time.
A software glitch or damaged component can lead to a black screen of death. Perform a hard reset on your iPhone, and if the issue remains, consider getting it repaired by a skilled technician.
If the power button of your iPhone is faulty or there is a software bug, it can prevent your device from turning off. Try force restart on your iPhone to fix the software bug and if the button is damaged, get help from a repair store in your area.
A damaged battery, location service turned on, or exposure to high temperatures are some of the reasons your iPhone battery is draining fast. You can turn the location settings or other apps off so they don’t consume the battery or replace the battery if it’s damaged.
Exposing your iPhone to liquid bodies can damage your device’s internal components. If it happens, turn your iPhone off immediately and let it dry completely before using it again. If you notice any issues, it’s better to get the iPhone checked by a technician.
Low storage space on your iPhone can cause it to freeze, stop responding, or glitch. To fix this, update the phone to the latest iOS and clear storage space.
When it comes to the decision of whether to repair or replace your damaged iPhone, there are certain things to consider. As we've discussed above, DIY and professional repairs have their pros and cons in terms of costs, risks, convenience, and outcome. DIY is great for fixing the issue at a lower cost as long as you have the right skills and tools, but if you are trying the first time, it is better to opt for a professional repair service.
When deciding on fixing your iPhone, keep in mind that a quality repair can certainly breathe new life into old devices. But there also comes a point where you need to compare the costs of the repair with the cost of a new device. Carefully assess the usage, budget, and age of your device. Determine whether repair or replacement better serves your circumstances.
Tech Writer | Photographer
LinkedIn: Madiha Khadim
Madi is a dynamic tech writer with a passion for simplifying complex concepts. Her expertise lies in creating clear and concise guides, blogs, manuals, and tutorials that empower users to navigate the technological landscape with ease. Throughout her career, Madi has worked with numerous leading tech companies, collaborating with engineers, developers, designers and marketers to create user manuals, FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and tech articles, on the websites such as "Technology Castle" and "Bilzimo". She can transform intricate technical jargon into user-friendly language, empowering users to understand and utilize products effectively.
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