Hey folks! I bought my iPhone 15 Pro Max on launch day, and it's been a frustrating experience ever since. Right from the start, the phone would get so hot that it's uncomfortable to hold. I have AppleCare Plus and reached out for help, but they keep saying that everything passes their diagnostics and refuse to repair it. I hoped that software updates would help, but things just got worse—my battery drains way too fast.
I've been to an Apple Store multiple times, and although they acknowledge the heating issue, they still won't fix it because it's passing tests. The battery health is currently at 81% after around 600 cycles, but they keep insisting I need to pay for a battery replacement despite their own warranty conditions. I'm stuck since I can't afford a new phone, and I really don't want to back down now that they admit there's a problem. Is there anyone higher up to talk to, or any advice on how I can get them to take responsibility for this?
5 Answers
Just a heads up, Apple’s guidelines state that the battery for the iPhone 15 should hold 80% of its capacity at 1000 cycles. Since yours is below that after less time, I think you have a solid case for getting something done under warranty or at least through AppleCare. They might just be trying to dodge responsibility.
Consider trading in your phone for the upcoming iPhone 17. Just ensure everything checks out before you do, so you’re not stuck with another problematic device. Supposedly the 17 has some improvements for heat issues. Also, take a step back and think if keeping AppleCare+ is worth it for you after all this!
If you keep getting denied repairs, maybe claim liquid damage, since warranty repairs depend heavily on those tests. You could potentially get a replacement through AppleCare that way, but it’ll be a gamble.
They want over $150 for a replacement here in Canada, and I don't want to pay after this long!
I hear you! I have a 15 Pro Max too, and while I don't have the same severe heating issues, my battery life has definitely dropped since the last update. Just to clarify, with AppleCare, a battery replacement should typically be free. Where are you located? That might affect your options!
Exactly! My wife’s 15 Pro Max lasts all day with a similar battery health. It's just frustrating when Apple doesn't seem to be addressing these widespread issues.
Have you tried doing a full restore? Sometimes, battery and performance issues that seem hardware-related can actually get fixed by setting up the phone as new instead of restoring from a backup. It’s worth a shot if you haven’t tried that!
Oh, I’ve done that multiple times at the store. They even had me test on an early iOS version, but the problems keep coming back.
Exactly! They’re saying it’s passing tests, but how can it be okay when it’s clearly not functioning as they advertise?