Apple doesn't repair water-damaged iPhones; they replace them, charging high out-of-warranty fees ($300-$700+) for replacement units, but offer a much cheaper $99 flat rate for accidental damage with AppleCare+, though you still pay a service fee and may face model-specific charges. Costs vary significantly by model and damage severity, so checking the Apple Support Get Estimate tool for your specific device is crucial, with many finding third-party repairs more economical for severe cases.
Apple charges $269-$699 for out-of-warranty water damage repairs, depending on model, or a flat $99 with AppleCare+ for accidental damage. Third-party shops offer the same repairs for $60–$300, often with faster turnaround times.
Professional repair costs for water damage tend to range from $199 to $299, though local shops often charge less. With AppleCare+, it's a flat $49. Without coverage, expect to pay $89-$250 at repair shops or $399-$649 for Apple's replacement service.
Water and other liquid damage to iPhone or iPod isn't covered by warranty - Apple Support.
Using silica gel packets to dry your iPhone
It typically takes at least 48 hours for an iPhone to dry out. If your phone has been exposed to water or other types of liquid, we suggest turning it off and leaving it to dry either on its own or enclosed with silica gel packets to hasten the process.
AppleCare+ is often worth it for accident-prone users or those who want peace of mind, as it significantly reduces the high cost of accidental damage (like screen breaks, spills) and theft/loss (with the premium plan) through low service fees, plus it offers 24/7 tech support and covers battery health, making it potentially cheaper than out-of-pocket repairs, but it's less valuable if you're very careful and use a good case, as your standard warranty covers hardware failures.
Given the high cost of repairing severe water damage, it's often better to replace the phone, especially if it's an older model. However, if the water damage is minor and the repair cost is reasonable, fixing the phone could be a viable option.
In many cases, iPhone repairs and service for water damage are possible—especially if you act fast. It depends on how long the phone was exposed and how much water got inside.
A good rule to follow: If repairing your phone costs half as much as buying a new one—or more—consider getting a new phone, especially if yours is more than a few years old. Remember, you can often trade in your old phone and apply that credit towards a new one, too.
Liquid damage is covered as part of accidental damage protection. So now you won't have to stress over spills and splashes.
Our warranty doesn't cover accidental damage or batteries that wear down from normal use. If your situation isn't covered and consumer law doesn't apply, there will be a cost associated with repairs through Apple.
Yes, Best Buy (as an Apple Authorized Service Provider) offers water damage repair for iPhones, including same-day service for many issues if parts are in stock, but actual repairability depends on the severity; often, extensive water damage leads to a full phone replacement, especially if you have AppleCare+ which significantly reduces costs for accidental damage like water exposure.
To dry iPhone, tap it gently against your hand with the Lightning or USB-C connector facing down to remove excess liquid. Leave the device in a dry area with sufficient airflow. Placing the device in front of a fan blowing cool air directly into the Lightning or USB-C connector may help the drying process.
Key Takeaways:
Water damage can be permanent or temporary. Understanding the indicators of permanent damage is crucial for taking appropriate action. Mold growth and structural damage are key signs of potential permanence. Electrical hazards are also a concern in water damage situations.
This technique has not been shown to be effective in avoiding the damage.
Once you've removed the SIM card tray, shine a flashlight into the slot. Look for a small dot. If it's white or silver, your iPhone is safe. But if it's red, your device has been exposed to water or a liquid containing water.
Water can seep into the internals of your device through any small openings—be it the charging port, headphone jack, or even the speakers and buttons. This moisture can corrode metal components and short-circuit electrical pathways, leading to permanent damage if not addressed promptly.
If You Have AppleCare+, You Can Get Your Device Replaced
While your device comes with a standard one-year warranty from the manufacturer, this is an upgraded option, and we recommend signing up as a precaution. While the base warranty does not cover water damage, the paid option does.
Neither the Apple One-Year Warranty nor the AppleCare Protection Plan cover water damage repair for iPhone. You can decide to replace your iPhone device for $60 to $180, depending on the model. Or, if you have AppleCare +, the repair won't cost more than $79.
What is not insured? loss or theft, normal wear and tear, intentionally- caused damage, fire or cosmetic damage which does not affect the functionality of the device. defect in design, workmanship, modification or any alteration of the covered Apple device.
If you drop your iPhone 16e and crack the screen, you'll have to pay a $29 deductible to get the screen replaced. Add the $100 fee for AppleCare+, and your total cost is $129. If you don't have the protection plan and need that repair, you'll be paying $229.
It does not cover intentional damage, normal wear and tear, or design defects. There is also a more expensive tier of AppleCare+ that protects from loss or theft.