Repair Programs: All about Apple’s ongoing repair and replacement programs

Apple has several repair programs running, making you eligible for free replacement or repair for certain defects. Which repair programs does Apple have and how do you check if you are eligible? You can read all about it in this overview!

Is your iPhone defective or is your MacBook broken? Before you have your iPhone repaired, it is wise to look at Apple’s repair programs. If you have a defect for which Apple has a repair program, you will receive a free replacement device, a free repair or a discount on a repair. Check here which Apple repair programs there are and whether you qualify for them.

  • Explanation
  • Current
  • Note
  • Locations
  • Cost

What is a repair program?

A repair program is similar to a recall. A repair program means that Apple has detected an error with, for example, a certain type of iPhone or MacBook, which causes users to suffer from defects or problems. Consider, for example, camera problems with an iPhone or screen problems with a Mac. With repair programs it is often the case that not every model is eligible. For example, it can only relate to an iPhone that was produced in a certain period. Some repair programs only run for a limited time, so you must respond quickly to take advantage of the repair or replacement. You can make an appointment for this at the Genius Bar or with an authorized service provider.

What Apple repair programs are there?

There are a number of Apple repair programs that you are eligible for with the correct model:

iPhone and iPad:

  • iPad Air with black screen: Apple will replace the screen if it completely fails or malfunctions after a flicker.

  • iPhone 6s (Plus) no longer turns on: some models from 2018-2019 no longer turn on due to a faulty component.

  • iPhone X screen modules: Some models have a defect in the screen. Apple offers a free screen replacement.

  • IPhone 8 Motherboard Replacement: Apple is replacing the motherboard on some iPhone 8 models as they can crash.

  • Replacement iPhone 7 without range: Apple fixes a problem with foreign iPhone 7 models where there is no range.

  • iPhone 6s Unexpected Shutdown Issue: A small number of iPhone 6s models may shut down unexpectedly. Select iPhone 6s models manufactured between September and October 2015 are eligible for free battery replacement.

  • iPhone 6 Plus Touch Disease Repair Program: Some of the iPhone 6 Plus suffer from a flickering line on the screen, also known as Touch Disease. The device will be repaired for a fixed price of € 181.10, even if it is out of warranty.

  • IPhone 6 Plus iSight camera replacement: A defective part can cause photos to look blurry on this model. The camera will be replaced free of charge.

In 2018 you could have your iPhone battery replaced cheaper at Apple. In 2018, this cost € 29 instead of € 89. From 2019 you pay € 49 or € 69 at Apple for the replacement of your iPhone battery for the most recent devices.

Mac:

  • MacBook Keyboard Replacement: Free keyboard replacement for the MacBook and MacBook Pro from early 2015 to the latest models in 2019.

  • 15-inch MacBook Pro Battery Replacement: Free battery replacement on select MacBook Pro models sold between September 2015 and February 2019.

  • MacBook Air 2018 motherboard problem: Apple solves the problem with the motherboard on a small number of copies free of charge.

  • 13-inch MacBook Pro 2016 Screen Replacement: Some models of the 13-inch MacBook Pro from 2016 have screen smudges due to a backlight problem. Apple fixes your screen at no extra cost.

  • 13-inch MacBook Pro SSD repair: an unknown problem can cause the SSD to lose data. Apple offers free replacement.

  • 13-inch MacBook Pro Battery Replacement: Some models of the 13-inch MacBook Pro without a Touch Bar suffer from a swollen battery, which can cause components to fail. It applies to models made between October 2016 and October 2017.

  • Screen replacement for screen stains on MacBook: Apple can replace the screen in some cases if you suffer from stubborn screen stains due to the coating.

  • MacBook Pro Video Problem Repair Tool: A small number of mid-2012 and early-2013 15-inch MacBook Pro models are experiencing distorted video. Repair program is valid through December 31, 2016 or four years from original purchase date.

Other:

  • AirPods Pro with crackling sound, noise and more: The AirPods Pro can make a crackling or rustling sound during use. People also have problems with the noise reduction.

  • Glass break around the screen on Apple Watch Series 2 and 3: free repair if the screen is broken around the edges.

  • UK Apple Travel Plug Exchange Program: Apple is swapping a UK travel plug due to a risk of electric shock. This plug was part of the travel plug set.

  • Repair program for ‘vintage’ products: Apple has started a pilot for products older than 5 years, provided parts are still in stock.

  • Swollen battery Apple Watch Series 2: If your Apple Watch Series 2 has a swollen battery, Apple will replace it free of charge.

  • Back of original Apple Watch: Let go of the back of your original Apple Watch and Apple will fix it free of charge.

  • Swollen battery of the original Apple Watch: Apple gives an extra warranty on a swollen battery of the original Apple Watch.

  • Replacement of defective MacBook USB-C cable: Due to a design issue, the USB-C cable supplied with the 12-inch MacBook may stop working in June 2015.

  • Apple power adapter exchange program: Apple is exchanging the power adapter of a particular series because they can break and give an electric shock.

  • Beats Pill XL speaker recall: Battery may overheat. You receive an Apple Store credit or electronic payment worth € 300.

How do I know if I qualify for a repair program?

For each repair program, Apple makes it clear which models are affected. In our articles about the individual repair programs you always read exactly which models are suitable. So read this carefully before going to the Apple Store with your Apple device. Sometimes it concerns a specific model from a certain year of manufacture, but sometimes a large number of models also participate.

For a Mac, check the model number via > About This Mac. Here you see not only the name of the model, but also the year of introduction. On the iPhone and iPad you can check the model name via Settings> General> About. In our articles on MacBook models, iPhone models and iPad models you will find more details on how to recognize your Apple product.

Where can I get an Apple repair program?

If you have a defect that falls within one of Apple’s repair programs, you can go to one of the Apple Stores in the Netherlands or Apple Store in Belgium. In the Netherlands, this is the Apple Store in Amsterdam, Haarlem and The Hague. In Belgium you will find the Apple Store in Brussels. In addition to the official Apple Stores, you can also contact the Authorized Apple Service Providers for repair or replacement. Microfix, Card Services and Amac, among others, are Authorized Apple Service Providers. Repairs performed at these parties are seen by Apple as the same type of repair as at the Apple Store. Apple’s repair programs therefore also apply at these locations, under the same conditions. The advantage of Approved Apple Service Providers is that they are spread in more places in the Netherlands and Belgium.

What are the costs for an Apple repair program?

The costs for an Apple repair program vary from case to case. For example, most repair programs qualify you for a free replacement, but there are also repair programs that come with a fee. In almost all cases it is advisable to go into the repair program if your device is affected. Even if you’ve already had a repair done for the same problem, it’s best to contact Apple. You often get back the previous amount that you had to pay.

Do you have other issues with your Apple devices? Check out our separate articles:

  • iPhone repair: what are the costs and best options?
  • iPad repair: what to look out for when repairing a broken iPad?
  • MacBook repair: what to look out for when repairing a broken MacBook?

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