Apple's Limited Warranty Does Not Cover Accidental Screen Damage

Apple's standard one-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects—parts that fail because they were made wrong, not because of how you used the device. A cracked, shattered, or otherwise damaged screen from a drop, impact, or accident is not a manufacturing defect. Apple will not replace it under the limited warranty, even if the damage happened on day two of ownership.

The distinction matters because it shapes what you actually have to pay. If your screen fails because of a manufacturing problem—say the display stops working without any physical damage—the warranty covers the replacement. If you dropped your phone and the screen broke, you are paying out of pocket unless you have AppleCare+.

Key Takeaways

  • The standard one-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects only, not accidental damage like drops or cracks.
  • AppleCare+ is the product that covers accidental damage, including screen replacement, but it costs extra and must be purchased within 60 days of device purchase.
  • Out-of-warranty screen replacement costs vary by device—typically $129 to $329 for iPhones and $199 to $799 for iPads and MacBooks.
  • You can purchase AppleCare+ after the fact only if your device has not been damaged and you buy it within 60 days of purchase.

What the Limited Warranty Actually Covers

Apple's limited warranty is a manufacturing defect warranty. It covers parts and labor for problems caused by defects in materials or workmanship during manufacture. If your iPhone's display stops working on its own, or a MacBook's screen flickers without any physical damage, the warranty covers repair or replacement.

The warranty does not cover damage from accidents, misuse, liquid exposure, or normal wear. It also does not cover batteries that have degraded from normal use (though Apple does replace batteries that retain less than 80 percent of original capacity separately). Cosmetic damage—dents, scratches, discoloration—is not covered either.

The limited warranty lasts one year from the date of purchase. If you bought your device used or refurbished, the warranty period may be shorter. You can check your coverage by entering your device's serial number on Apple's coverage page.

AppleCare+ Is What Covers Accidental Screen Damage

AppleCare+ is Apple's optional protection plan that covers accidental damage, including broken screens. With AppleCare+, you pay a one-time fee upfront (ranging from $99 to $379 depending on the device), then pay a smaller amount each time you need a repair—typically $29 to $99 for screen replacement, depending on the device.

AppleCare+ must be purchased within 60 days of buying your device. You cannot add it later if your device is already damaged. If you buy it within the window, it covers accidental damage for two years from the original purchase date (or three years for some newer devices).

The plan covers up to two incidents of accidental damage per year. Each incident has a service fee. For example, on an iPhone 15, AppleCare+ costs $99 upfront, then $29 per screen replacement. Without AppleCare+, an out-of-warranty screen replacement on an iPhone 15 costs $199.

Out-of-Warranty Screen Replacement Costs

If your screen is damaged and you do not have AppleCare+, Apple will replace it for a flat fee. The cost depends on your device model and whether the screen is the only damage.

For iPhones, out-of-warranty screen replacement typically costs $129 to $199. For iPad screens, expect $149 to $299. MacBook screens run $299 to $799 depending on the model. These prices are for screen replacement only; if other damage is present, Apple may quote a full device replacement instead, which costs significantly more.

You can get a repair estimate by visiting an Apple Store or authorized service provider, or by calling Apple Support. Bring your device or have your serial number ready. Repair usually takes one to three business days at an Apple Store, though some locations offer same-day service for common repairs.

Where to Get Your Screen Replaced

Apple offers screen replacement through three channels: Apple Stores, Apple Authorized Service Providers, and Apple Mail-In Repair. Apple Stores are the fastest option if one is near you—you can often get a same-day estimate and repair. Authorized Service Providers (independent repair shops certified by Apple) offer the same warranty and parts but may have different hours or wait times.

If you do not have a local option, Apple Mail-In Repair lets you ship your device to Apple. You pay for shipping one way; Apple covers the return. The full process typically takes five to seven business days.

Avoid third-party repair shops unless you are comfortable with the trade-off: they are usually faster and cheaper, but they do not use Apple parts, and the repair voids any remaining warranty coverage. If your device is still under the limited warranty for other issues, a third-party screen repair can complicate future claims.

How to Check Your Current Coverage

You can see whether your device is under the limited warranty, and whether AppleCare+ is active, by visiting Apple's coverage page and entering your device's serial number. The serial number is in Settings > General > About on iPhones and iPads, or System Settings > General > About on Mac.

If you purchased AppleCare+ and are unsure whether it is still active, the same page will show your coverage end date and remaining incidents. If you are within 60 days of purchase and do not yet have AppleCare+, you can add it through the same page, in the Apple Support app, or in an Apple Store.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add AppleCare+ after my screen is already broken?

No. AppleCare+ must be purchased within 60 days of device purchase, and your device must have no existing damage. If your screen is already cracked, you cannot add the plan. You would need to pay the out-of-warranty repair fee.

Does AppleCare+ cover water damage to the screen?

Yes, AppleCare+ covers accidental liquid damage, including damage that affects the screen. You pay the service fee ($29 to $99 depending on device) rather than the full out-of-warranty cost. However, you must report the damage within 30 days of it occurring.

What if my screen broke during the first year but I did not have AppleCare+?

The one-year limited warranty does not cover accidental damage, regardless of when it happened. You would pay the out-of-warranty screen replacement fee. AppleCare+ status does not matter—only whether you had it at the time of purchase.

Is it cheaper to replace the whole device than just the screen?

Usually not. A full device replacement costs far more than a screen repair. However, if your device has multiple types of damage (screen plus back glass, for example), Apple may quote you a replacement price. Always ask for a repair estimate before authorizing a replacement.

Can I use a different charger or cable while my screen is being repaired?

Yes. Screen replacement does not affect charging or data. Your device will work normally with any compatible charger while waiting for repair, or while the repair is in progress.