Yes, you can replace an iPhone battery, but where and how depends on your model and warranty

You can replace an iPhone battery yourself using a kit, take it to Apple, or visit an authorized repair shop. Apple charges between $69 and $99 depending on your model. Third-party shops often charge less but may void your warranty. DIY replacement is cheapest but requires tools, patience, and carries the risk of damaging your phone if something goes wrong.

The easiest route for most people is Apple or an authorized repair center, because they handle the whole job and stand behind the work. If your iPhone is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, the battery replacement may be free or cost far less. The trade-off is time—Apple typically takes three to five business days, though some locations offer same-day service.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple replaces iPhone batteries for $69 to $99 and usually takes three to five business days, or same-day at some locations.
  • If your phone is under warranty or you have AppleCare+, battery replacement is free if the battery health has degraded below 80 percent.
  • Authorized third-party repair shops charge $40 to $70 but may not honor Apple's warranty on the rest of your phone.
  • DIY battery kits cost $20 to $50 but require opening your phone and risk cracking the screen or damaging internal components.
  • Check your battery health in Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging to see if replacement is worth the cost.

How to check if your battery actually needs replacing

Before you spend money, look at your battery's actual health. Go to Settings, tap Battery, then Battery Health & Charging. You will see a percentage labeled "Maximum Capacity." If it is 80 percent or higher, your battery is still in reasonable shape. If it is below 80 percent, replacement will noticeably improve how long your phone lasts between charges.

You will also see a line that says "Peak Performance Capability." If it says your phone is performing at peak performance, the battery is fine. If it says your phone has experienced unexpected shutdowns or is managing performance, that is a sign the battery is failing and replacement will help. Write down the exact percentage and the message you see—you will need this information when you contact Apple or a repair shop.

Replacing your battery at Apple

Apple handles battery replacement at its retail stores and through its mail-in repair service. The cost is $69 for iPhone 11 and older models, and $79 to $99 for iPhone 12 and newer. If your phone is under the one-year limited warranty and the battery has degraded below 80 percent capacity, Apple replaces it free. If you have AppleCare+, battery replacement is also free.

To start, visit apple.com/support, select your device, and choose "Battery Service." You can book an appointment at a nearby Apple Store or request mail-in service. At the store, you typically wait while they replace the battery—same-day service is common but not may provide. For mail-in, you ship your phone to Apple, and they send it back within five to seven business days. Bring your phone and a form of ID. If you are not the original owner, bring proof of purchase or the receipt.

Using an authorized Apple repair shop

Authorized Apple repair shops—often called Apple Authorized Service Providers—charge the same as Apple for battery replacement and honor the same warranty terms. The advantage is convenience: they may be closer to you or have faster turnaround. The disadvantage is that not all authorized shops offer same-day service, and quality varies.

To find one, go to apple.com/support, click "Find Locations," and filter for "Authorized Service Providers." Call ahead to confirm they have your battery in stock and ask how long the repair takes. Some shops can do it in an hour; others take two to three days. Ask whether they use genuine Apple batteries or third-party batteries. Genuine batteries carry Apple's warranty. Third-party batteries are cheaper but may not last as long or perform as reliably.

Third-party repair shops and what to watch for

Independent repair shops charge $40 to $70 for battery replacement, sometimes less. They are often faster than Apple and more flexible with scheduling. The trade-off is that they may not use genuine Apple batteries, and replacing the battery at a non-Apple shop does not void your overall warranty—but Apple will not cover damage to other parts of your phone if the repair shop causes it.

Before you go, ask three questions: Do they use genuine Apple batteries or aftermarket batteries? What is their warranty on the battery itself? Do they have your specific iPhone model in stock? Read recent reviews on Google or Yelp, and avoid shops with complaints about battery quality or water damage after repair. If you choose a third-party shop, take photos of your phone's condition before you hand it over, and get a written receipt that lists what was replaced and what warranty applies.

Replacing the battery yourself with a kit

DIY battery kits cost $20 to $50 and include a replacement battery, a pentalobe screwdriver, a spudger, and adhesive strips. You can find them on Amazon or eBay. The process takes 30 minutes to two hours depending on your skill level and how careful you are. The main risk is cracking the screen while you pry open the phone. iPhones are glued shut, and if you explore too much pressure or use the wrong tool, you can shatter the glass.

You also risk damaging the display connector or the battery connector, which can leave your phone unable to turn on. If something goes wrong, you have just made a $200+ repair into a $400+ repair. If you decide to do it yourself, watch a full video tutorial for your exact iPhone model on YouTube first. iFixit also has detailed written guides with photos. Do the work on a clean, well-lit surface, keep screws organized, and take your time. If at any point you feel uncertain, stop and take your phone to a professional.

What happens to your old battery

Apple and authorized shops recycle your old battery responsibly. Do not throw a battery in the trash—lithium batteries can catch fire in landfills. If you replace the battery yourself, take the old battery to an Apple Store, Best Buy, or a local e-waste recycling center. Most accept batteries free of charge.

Proper disposal protects the environment and prevents fire hazards at waste facilities. Many recycling centers will also take other electronics, so if you have old chargers or cables, bring those along.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will replacing the battery fix my phone if it keeps shutting down?

Maybe. If your battery health is below 80 percent and your phone is shutting down unexpectedly, a new battery will almost certainly fix it. If your battery health is above 80 percent, the shutdowns are likely caused by something else—a software issue, a failing logic board, or a damaged charging port. Get a diagnostic at Apple before you pay for a battery.

Can I replace the battery on an older iPhone like the iPhone 6 or 7?

Yes. Apple still replaces batteries in older models, though the cost is the same as newer phones. Third-party shops often have batteries in stock for older models and may charge less. Check your battery health first—if it is still above 80 percent, the phone may not need a replacement yet.

How long does a new iPhone battery last?

A new battery should last two to three years before it drops below 80 percent capacity, depending on how often you charge it and how hot your phone gets. Charging overnight, leaving your phone in a hot car, or using it while it is charging all wear the battery faster. Keeping your phone cool and avoiding full discharge cycles extends battery life.

Does AppleCare+ cover battery replacement?

Yes, AppleCare+ covers battery replacement free if the battery has degraded below 80 percent capacity. It also covers accidental damage, hardware failures, and two years of technical support. AppleCare+ costs $99 to $199 depending on your iPhone model and is usually worth it if you plan to keep your phone for more than two years.

What if I replace the battery myself and something breaks?

Apple will still repair your phone, but you will pay out-of-warranty rates. If you crack the screen during a DIY battery replacement, expect to pay $200 to $400 for screen repair on top of the battery cost. If you damage the logic board or battery connector, the repair cost can exceed the phone's value. This is why professional replacement is usually the safer choice.