You can replace an iPhone battery yourself using a kit, or have Apple do it for a flat fee

An iPhone battery replacement costs between $69 and $99 through Apple, depending on your model, and takes three to five business days at most Apple Stores. If you do it yourself with a third-party kit, you'll spend $20 to $40 on parts and tools, but you risk voiding your warranty and damaging the phone if something goes wrong. Most people are better off going to Apple or an authorized repair shop, but if your phone is old, out of warranty, or you're comfortable with small electronics, a DIY replacement is possible.

Before you decide which route to take, check your battery health first. Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging and look at the "Maximum Capacity" percentage. If it's above 80%, your battery is still in good shape and doesn't need replacement yet. This one step will tell you whether replacement is urgent or can wait, and whether you're may be able to access for free service under warranty.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple charges a flat fee ($69–$99) for battery replacement and can usually complete it in a few days, with no risk to your warranty.
  • Third-party repair shops often charge less than Apple but may use non-original batteries, which can affect performance and longevity.
  • DIY battery kits cost $20–$40 and include tools, but require patience, a clean workspace, and acceptance that you could damage the phone.
  • Your iPhone's battery health percentage (found in Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging) tells you whether replacement is urgent or can wait.
  • If your phone is still under warranty or AppleCare+, battery replacement is free if the battery has degraded below 80% capacity.

When your iPhone battery actually needs replacing

Check your battery health before you decide to replace it. Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging and look at the "Maximum Capacity" percentage. If it's above 80%, your battery is still in good shape and doesn't need replacement yet. If it's between 70% and 80%, the phone will work fine but you'll notice it drains faster. Below 70%, replacement becomes worth considering.

You'll also see a "Condition" line that says either "Normal" or "Service Recommended." If it says "Service Recommended," Apple will replace the battery for free if you're under warranty or have AppleCare+. If you're out of warranty and the capacity is below 80%, you'll pay the standard fee. Don't replace a battery that's still above 80% unless the phone is shutting down unexpectedly—that's a sign of a defective battery, not normal aging.

Getting a replacement through Apple

Visit apple.com/support, select your device, and choose "Battery Service." You can book an appointment at an Apple Store or mail your phone to Apple's repair center. At a store, the process usually takes two to five business days; by mail, add a few days for shipping both ways. If you choose the mail-in option, Apple will send you a prepaid shipping label and a box.

Bring your phone and a photo ID to an Apple Store appointment. If your phone is under warranty or you have AppleCare+, the replacement is free. If you're out of warranty, the cost is $69 for iPhone 11 and older models, $79 for iPhone 12–14, and $99 for iPhone 15 and newer. Apple uses original batteries and your warranty remains intact after the repair.

Using an authorized third-party repair shop

Authorized Apple repair partners (found at apple.com/support under "Find Locations") can replace your battery for the same price as Apple and use original or Apple-approved parts. The advantage is often faster turnaround—many complete replacements the same day or next day. You get the same warranty protection as you would at an Apple Store.

Independent repair shops not on Apple's list may charge $30 to $60 and work faster, but they typically use non-original batteries. These batteries work, but they may not last as long or hold a charge as reliably as Apple's. Check reviews and ask whether they use original or third-party batteries before you commit. If you later need other repairs, some shops may refuse to work on the phone because they can't verify the battery's origin or condition.

Replacing the battery yourself with a kit

A DIY battery kit (available on Amazon or eBay for $20–$40) includes a replacement battery, a pentalobe screwdriver, a spudger, tweezers, and adhesive strips. The process takes 30 to 60 minutes if you're careful and have done similar work before. If you've never opened a phone, expect it to take longer and carry real risk of damaging the screen, logic board, or connectors. This approach voids any remaining warranty.

Start by powering off your phone completely and removing the SIM tray. Use the pentalobe screwdriver to remove the two screws at the bottom of the phone. Heat the edges with a heat gun or hair dryer on low to soften the adhesive, then carefully pry the screen away using the spudger. Work slowly—the screen is fragile and expensive to replace. Once the screen is open, you'll see the battery connector at the top. Disconnect it by gently lifting the tab with tweezers.

Peel away the adhesive strips holding the battery, then lift the old battery out. Install the new battery, reconnect the battery connector, and use the new adhesive strips to find it. Close the screen, reinstall the screws, and power on the phone. Only attempt this if your phone is old, out of warranty, and you're comfortable with the possibility of a $200+ repair bill if something breaks.

What to do if your phone won't turn on after replacement

If you replaced the battery yourself and the phone won't power on, the battery connector may not be fully seated. Power off the phone, open it again, and check that the connector is pushed firmly into its socket. If the phone still won't start, the battery itself may be defective—contact the kit seller for a replacement battery. This is a common issue with third-party kits and usually means the battery is faulty, not your installation.

If the screen won't light up but you hear sounds or feel vibrations, the display connector may have been knocked loose during reassembly. This requires opening the phone again and reseating the ribbon cable, which is delicate work. If you're not confident, take the phone to a repair shop rather than risk further damage. A professional can usually fix a loose connector in 15 to 30 minutes.

How long a new battery lasts

A new original Apple battery should retain 80% capacity after about 500 full charge cycles—roughly two years of normal use. Third-party batteries often degrade faster and may reach 80% capacity in 300 to 400 cycles. Keep your battery healthy by avoiding extreme temperatures, not letting the phone drain completely before charging, and avoiding fast charging every day. These habits extend the life of any battery, original or third-party.

If you replace the battery yourself and later need other repairs, some shops may refuse to work on the phone because they can't verify the battery's origin or condition. This is one hidden cost of DIY replacement—you may lose access to professional repair shops for future problems. Apple Stores will still service your phone, but they may charge a diagnostic fee if they suspect the DIY work caused the new problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it cheaper to replace the battery or buy a new phone?

If your phone is less than four years old and works otherwise, battery replacement ($69–$99) is much cheaper than a new phone ($800+). If your phone is five years or older, the decision depends on whether other parts are failing. Check your battery health first—if it's above 70%, you may not need replacement yet.

Can I replace the battery on an iPhone 6 or older?

Yes, but Apple no longer stocks batteries for phones older than about five years. You'll need to use a third-party repair shop or a DIY kit. Older phones are also more fragile when opened, so professional replacement is safer if you can find a shop that services that model.

Does AppleCare+ cover battery replacement?

Yes, if the battery has degraded below 80% capacity. AppleCare+ covers battery service at no cost. If you don't have AppleCare+ and your phone is out of warranty, you'll pay the standard service fee.

What happens to my data when the battery is replaced?

Your data stays on the phone. Apple and authorized shops don't erase anything during battery replacement. If you use a DIY kit, your data is also safe as long as you don't damage the logic board or storage chips.

Can I use my phone while it's being repaired?

No. At Apple or a repair shop, the phone is powered off during the entire process. If you mail it to Apple, you won't have access to it for the duration of the repair. Plan for a few days without your phone, or ask whether the shop offers a loaner device.