Cost to Repair a Cracked Back on iPhone 12: Understanding Your Options
When you crack your iPhone 12's back, such as the glass, it can leave you with a less than pleasant surprise both in terms of appearance and financial impact. Wondering how much it would cost to get it fixed? The answer can vary quite a bit depending on where and how you decide to get the repair done. In this article, we will explore the different repair options, costs, and factors you should consider.
Understanding the Repair Cost
The cost to repair a cracked back of an iPhone 12 can range from $100 to $449 USD, depending on the repair method and your insurance coverage.
Apple Official Repair Service:
If you choose to use Apple's official repair service, the cost for a back glass replacement typically starts around $199 USD. For Apple's iPhone 13, the same repair might cost between $29 and $99 USD, depending on your insurance coverage. This includes one "incident" under the AppleCare plan.
Third-Party Repair Shops:
For a third-party repair, the price can be significantly lower, ranging from $100 to $150 USD. However, keep in mind that using these services might void any remaining warranty or insurance coverage.
Factors Affecting the Cost
Several factors can influence the final cost of repairing your iPhone 12's cracked back. These include:
Insurance Coverage: If you have accident insurance (AppleCare ), you may only need to pay a deductible. If not, you'll likely cover the full repair cost. Deductible: If your insurance policy has a deductible, this amount will be deducted from the total cost. Location: The cost can differ based on your location and the specific repair shop you choose. Diagnosis: Some repair centers may provide a diagnosis before giving you a quote, which can help you make an informed decision.Repair Methods and Reliability
Apple has intentionally made the back glass repair process challenging, and most third-party repair shops struggle with it. Apple usually charges around $600 USD for an "other" repair, which is a high cost for many users. However, some specialized third-party companies offer a laser-based solution, which can be a more affordable alternative.
It is not recommended to use a cheap or unreliable back glass replacement. This is because:
The process used to attach third-party back glass is less secure and may not last as long as the original glass. Third-party repairs may use parts from donor phones or inferior aftermarket components, which can compromise the overall integrity of your device. Your insurance provider will likely send the device back to Apple for repair, rendering a third-party repair unnecessary.Final Recommendations:
1. Check Your Insurance Policy: Contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any associated deductibles.
2. Pick a Reliable Repair Service: If you choose a third-party repair, make sure they are reputable and experienced in iPhone repairs.
3. Contact Apple Support: In some cases, visiting an Apple Store directly for repairs under AppleCare may be your most cost-effective option.
4. Ask for a Quote: Always get a quote before proceeding with any repairs. This ensures you understand the full cost upfront.
By following these guidelines, you can make an informed decision about getting your iPhone 12's cracked back repaired, ensuring you minimize costs and maintain your device's integrity.