You can replace your iPhone battery yourself using basic tools, or have Apple do it for you in about an hour

The fastest way to replace an iPhone battery depends on your comfort level and which iPhone model you have. If you want Apple to handle it, you can book an appointment at an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider — they typically finish the same day or within a few days, and the cost ranges from $69 to $99 depending on your model. If you want to do it yourself, you'll need a pentalobe screwdriver (the five-pointed star shape), a suction cup, and a plastic spudger or opening tool. The process takes 30 to 60 minutes for most people on their first try.

Before you start, back up your iPhone using iCloud or a computer. Power it off completely and let it cool for a few minutes if it's warm. If your battery is swollen or visibly damaged, do not attempt a DIY replacement — take it to Apple or an authorized service provider instead, because a damaged battery can be unsafe to handle.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple's battery replacement service costs $69 to $99 and takes one to three days at most locations, with no appointment needed at many stores.
  • DIY replacement requires a pentalobe screwdriver, suction cup, plastic spudger, and replacement battery compatible with your exact iPhone model.
  • The first step is always to power off your phone completely and disconnect the battery connector inside before removing the old battery.
  • If your battery is swollen, cracked, or leaking, do not open the phone yourself — take it to Apple or an authorized repair shop.
  • After replacement, your phone may ask you to trust the new battery; this is normal and does not affect performance.

Getting your battery replaced at Apple or an authorized service provider

Visit apple.com/repair or call 1-800-MY-APPLE to find the nearest Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider in your area. You can book an appointment online or walk in at most locations. Have your phone with you and bring your ID if you're the original purchaser — Apple may ask for proof of ownership, though they often waive this for battery service.

The technician will run a battery health check to confirm the battery needs replacement, then remove the old battery and install a new one. The entire process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. You'll get your phone back the same day in most cases, though some locations may keep it overnight if they're busy. Apple replaces the battery with a genuine Apple battery and tests it before handing the phone back to you.

Cost varies by model: iPhone 15 and newer models are $69, iPhone 14 and earlier are $79, and iPhone 11 and older are $99. If your phone is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, the service may be covered at no charge — the technician will check this when you arrive.

Tools and parts you need for a DIY replacement

You will need a pentalobe screwdriver (size P2 for most iPhones), a suction cup, a plastic spudger or opening tool, and a replacement battery designed for your exact iPhone model. You'll also want a small bowl or tray to hold the screws so you don't lose them, and a clean, flat workspace with good lighting.

Buy a battery kit from iFixit, Amazon, or another electronics retailer — these kits usually include the battery, tools, and adhesive strips all together for $25 to $45. Make sure the kit is labeled for your specific iPhone model and year (for example, "iPhone 13 Pro Max battery" rather than just "iPhone 13 battery"). Do not buy generic batteries or batteries from unknown sellers, because they may have lower capacity or fail quickly.

If you already have the tools but need just the battery, Apple does not sell batteries separately to consumers. You'll need to order from a third-party seller, but verify the listing shows your exact model number before ordering.

Step-by-step process for replacing the battery yourself

Step 1: Power off and prepare. Turn off your iPhone completely. Wait a few minutes, then use the pentalobe screwdriver to remove the two small screws at the bottom of the phone on either side of the charging port. These screws are tiny — do not lose them.

Step 2: Open the screen. Place the suction cup on the screen near the bottom edge and pull gently but firmly. A small gap will appear. Slide the plastic spudger into the gap and work your way around the edges to separate the screen from the body. This takes patience — do not force it or you may crack the screen. Once the screen is loose enough, carefully lift it up like a book hinge, keeping the cables connected at the top.

Step 3: Disconnect the battery. You'll see a small connector near the top of the phone where the battery cable plugs in. Use the spudger to gently pry this connector straight up and away from the logic board. This is the most important step — disconnecting the battery prevents electrical damage while you work. Do not skip this step.

Step 4: Remove the old battery. The battery is glued to the phone body. Peel back the adhesive strips underneath the battery slowly and carefully. If the strips break, use the spudger to gently lift one corner of the battery and slide a thin piece of plastic or a guitar pick underneath to break the adhesive seal. Work your way around until the battery comes free. This step can take 5 to 10 minutes — rushing it may damage the phone body.

Step 5: Install the new battery. Clean any old adhesive from the phone body with a soft cloth. Peel the backing off the adhesive strips on the new battery and press it firmly into place in the same location as the old one. Press down for 10 seconds to make sure it sticks.

Step 6: Reconnect and close. Plug the battery connector back into the logic board — it should click into place. Carefully lower the screen back down and press around the edges to reseat it. Replace the two screws at the bottom. Power on your phone and check that it starts normally.

Common mistakes that damage your phone during battery replacement

The most common mistake is forcing the screen open too quickly. The adhesive holding the screen takes time to loosen, and forcing it cracks the display. Work slowly around all four edges before lifting the screen, and if you feel strong resistance, stop and work on a different section.

The second mistake is forgetting to disconnect the battery before touching anything inside. Even though the phone is off, the battery still carries a charge, and touching the wrong connector can short-circuit the logic board. Always disconnect the battery first and wait a few seconds before proceeding.

The third mistake is installing the new battery upside down or in the wrong position. Check the connector orientation on the new battery and compare it to where the old one was plugged in. The connector should face the same direction. If it doesn't fit easily, stop and double-check the orientation rather than forcing it.

Finally, do not reuse old adhesive strips. They lose stickiness after being removed, and a loose battery can shift inside the phone and damage other components. Always use the new adhesive strips that come with the replacement battery kit.

What to expect after you replace the battery

When you power on your phone after replacement, it may show a message saying "Unable to verify this battery" or ask you to trust the new battery. This is normal — it straightforward means the phone is detecting a battery it doesn't recognize. Tap "Trust" or "Continue" and the message will not appear again. This does not affect the battery's performance or your phone's warranty.

The battery health percentage shown in Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging should read close to 100% for a new battery. If it reads significantly lower (below 90%), the battery may be defective or used. Contact the seller for a replacement.

Your phone may take a few charge cycles to calibrate to the new battery. During the first week, charge it to 100% and let it drain to 0% at least once. After that, normal charging patterns will give you accurate battery percentage readings.

When to choose Apple service instead of DIY replacement

If your battery is swollen, cracked, or leaking, do not open the phone yourself. A damaged battery can catch fire or release toxic chemicals. Take it to Apple or an authorized service provider when ready.

If your phone is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, Apple service is often free or low-cost, making it the better financial choice. If you're uncomfortable working with small electronics or don't have the right tools, Apple service removes the risk of accidentally damaging your screen or logic board.

If your phone has water damage or other internal damage you're not sure about, Apple can diagnose the problem before replacing the battery. A DIY replacement might mask a larger issue that could fail later.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an iPhone battery last before it needs replacement?

Most iPhone batteries are designed to retain 80% of their capacity after 500 full charge cycles, which typically takes two to three years of normal use. You can check your battery health in Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging. If it shows below 80%, replacement is worth considering. If it shows below 50%, the phone will likely feel sluggish and replacement is recommended.

Will replacing the battery void my warranty?

No. If you have Apple replace the battery, your warranty remains valid. If you replace it yourself with a third-party battery, Apple may refuse to service other issues if they determine the DIY replacement caused the problem. However, a properly installed third-party battery should not affect other components.

Can I replace the battery on an older iPhone model?

Yes, but older models like iPhone 6 and earlier are harder to open because the screen adhesive is stronger. The process is the same, but it takes longer and requires more patience. Apple can still replace the battery on any iPhone model, though some very old models may be out of service.

What should I do if I break the screen while opening the phone?

Stop when ready and take the phone to Apple or an authorized service provider. Continuing to work on a broken screen risks cutting your hands and damaging the logic board underneath. Apple can replace both the screen and battery at the same time if needed.

Is it cheaper to replace the battery myself or use Apple?

DIY replacement costs $25 to $45 for a kit with tools and battery. Apple costs $69 to $99 depending on your model. DIY is cheaper upfront, but if you damage the screen or other components, repair costs quickly exceed Apple's price. For most people, Apple service is the safer choice unless you have experience with phone repairs.