I'm considering upgrading from my iPhone 14 Pro to either an iPhone Air or the iPhone 17 Pro. Since my upgrade plan allows me to keep my 14 Pro without trading it in, I'd like to replace the battery since it's currently at 84%. My plan is to maintain it as a backup with a fresh battery instead of the original one. I want to drop the 14 Pro from my AppleCare plan and replace it with the new phone. Can anyone clarify if Apple will do a free battery replacement under AppleCare+ if the battery is above 80%? Or will they charge me a fee for the replacement, even if it's not the full price for non-AppleCare replacements?
3 Answers
No, probably not under AppleCare. If everything is working fine, they won't see a reason to replace it. Plus, at 84%, it might not really be necessary for performance, any issues aside.
From what I’ve gathered, Apple typically won’t replace batteries that are still above 80%, no matter your situation. Even if you're willing to pay, they stick to their guidelines pretty strictly.
I see! I've read that in some cases, stores may classify it as a customer battery replacement request, but it really depends on the technician and how strict they are about the rules. I’m hoping to find someone flexible if I go that route.
Definitely! I’ve seen some people get pushback, but others have managed to convince Apple to replace the battery by explaining their needs. It seems hit or miss.
Apple usually won’t cover a battery replacement under AppleCare if it’s above 80% capacity. They tend to require it to be below that for a no-cost replacement. Occasionally, they might do it for the full payment price, but I've heard they’re tightening up on that, so it’s becoming less likely to happen without diagnostic failure.
True, but my battery health hasn’t changed in months, so I’m curious. I just want to be sure about its capacity before making any decisions.