DIY iPhone Repairs: From Apple Self-Repair to Third-Party Tools & Repair Shops

Repairing Your iPhone: DIY Options to Consider

Understanding the extent of the damage to your iPhone is crucial before deciding on a repair option. Depending on the severity, it may be more beneficial to replace the entire device or opt for a second-hand one. However, certain repairs such as replacing a worn-out battery, cracked display, or malfunctioning rear-facing camera can be worth the effort and cost. On the other hand, if the damage is more severe such as exposure to salt water or a completely bent chassis, a repair may not be worth the time and money.

Consider buying a used iPhone if you want to save money, even if your current phone is in disarray. However, before making a purchase, it's important to conduct a few checks to ensure the device is in good condition. One important step is to verify if the phone has already undergone any repairs.

Use Apple’s Self Repair Program to Fix Your Own iPhone

In 2022, Apple introduced its Self Service Repair program, which permits owners of select iPhone models to rent tools and buy parts for repairing their devices themselves.

For older iPhones not covered by Apple's current parts inventory, third-party resources, tools, and parts are necessary for repair. To begin the process, Apple's Manuals website provides repair manuals for each iPhone model, with an introductory warning of the potential for voiding one's warranty and the need for a System Configuration after repair. The manual includes internal views of components, a parts list, required screws, available tools, and a list of procedures. It is important to carefully study the manual and follow best safety practices for successful repair.

To perform the repair, you'll need to order the necessary tools and parts from Apple's Self Service Repair Store. Apple stocks parts for battery, bottom speaker, camera, display, SIM tray, and Taptic engine (haptics) repairs. Additionally, you'll need to rent a tool kit for $49, giving you a seven-day period to complete the repair.

To order the correct parts, you'll need the serial number of the iPhone you're repairing. You can find this information under Settings > General > About, on the original box, or by accessing the device list on another Apple device with your Apple ID. The parts you order will be specific to this serial number, so be sure to double-check it.

Following the instructions provided in Apple's manual, you can proceed with the repair. Once you're finished, you can send the old parts back to Apple for recycling. Apple offers credit for many of the parts sold in its repair store, which will be credited to the payment method used to rent the tools and purchase the parts.

Repairing your iPhone using this method may not be the most cost-effective solution. The display replacement bundle alone costs $269.95, and you'll need to pay $49 for tool rental. Although returning your old display can earn you a credit of $33.60, you could still end up paying around $285.35, not including the time required for the repair. However, there's a more affordable option to fix your iPhone that doesn't involve going through Apple. iFixit is a one-stop-shop for gadget maintenance, tool supplies, and parts. They carry a wide range of parts, including everything you need to replace your battery or fix a cracked screen.

If you own an older iPhone model, such as anything prior to the iPhone 12, obtaining parts and guides from Apple might not be an option. Your best bet would be to turn to resources like iFixit, though it's important to note that unofficial repairs come with some caveats. Replacing or damaging certain parts could cause certain iPhone features to malfunction. For instance, if you're replacing the display, you'll also need to transfer the upper sensor cable assembly from the old display to the new one to ensure that Face ID continues to work. Even with an official Apple display, you won't be able to use the True Tone white balancing feature after a replacement. To avoid any mishaps, make sure to study the repair guides thoroughly before attempting any repairs. Look up your exact model, such as iPhone 11 Pro Max, and find the corresponding guide. iFixit can provide you with an estimate of how long the repair should take and the level of skill required.

iFixit offers a comprehensive range of repair procedures, including logic boards and charging connector assemblies, with step-by-step video guides to walk you through the entire repair process. Their website conveniently lists all the required parts, most of which can be ordered directly with a simple click or tap. While there is no in-house recycling scheme for old parts and batteries, iFixit provides links to battery and multi-purpose recycling locations.

In terms of cost, iFixit is often more affordable than Apple. For instance, a complete kit containing all the necessary components for iPhone 13 display replacement is available for $239.99. By following the detailed instructions provided in the iFixit iPhone 13 Screen Replacement guide, you can perform this repair with ease using the specific tools required.

Please note that if you choose to repair your device with third-party parts from iFixit or another source, you may not be using genuine Apple parts. As a result, your iPhone may indicate that the parts are not genuine, which could impact its resale value. Additionally, non-genuine parts may have varying build quality.

If your iPhone is still covered under warranty or you have AppleCare+, it's best to take it to an authorized repair center or Apple store for any necessary repairs. Apple will provide you with a quote for the repair and you can decide whether or not to proceed with the repair. For instance, if you have a cracked screen on iPhone 13, an out-of-warranty repair would cost you $279. However, if you have AppleCare+, you can pay a flat rate of $29 for the repair, and since AppleCare+ includes unlimited repairs, this is a cheaper option than Apple's Self Service Repair Program. Additionally, this option is only slightly more expensive than iFixit, and you're guaranteed that everything will work correctly.

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Take Your iPhone to a Repair Shop

Taking your phone to a non-authorized Apple repair shop is another alternative. While it may have similar downsides as the iFixit option, such as the possibility of some features not working correctly afterwards, it does offer the benefit of not having to do the repair work yourself. Additionally, this option is typically less expensive than the other choices. Repair shops have the necessary tools and may even provide non-genuine Apple parts, which can be a good option if you have an older iPhone and just need to replace a failing battery to extend its lifespan.

Repair Your Own Mac, Samsung Phone, and More

Apple's Self Service Replacement Program not only provides tools and replacement parts for various Mac models, but it also offers similar services for iPhones. While Samsung's self-repair program may be a better option for Android phone owners, Google Pixel users can purchase genuine replacement parts directly from iFixit. For those interested in repairing other electronic devices, ReviewGeek has analyzed iFixit's Pro Tech Toolkit which may be worth considering.