Paying for a phone repair? Warranty, AppleCare+, and rights. It depends on whether we're talking about a factory defect covered by the legal warranty or an accidental incident covered by insurance like AppleCare+. In Spain, the law is very protective of consumers, but there are also important nuances depending on where you purchased the device, whether you're an individual or a business, and whether you added an additional coverage plan.
In this guide you will find, with clear language and practical examples, everything you need to know: the three-year legal warranty in Spain, how liability is divided between Apple and the seller, what AppleCare+ includes and excludes, prices, deductibles, limits, how to process an incident, and what happens with returns, cancellations, and insurance transfers. We also review your rights as a consumer and What happens if you repair outside the official network?.
Legal guarantee in Spain: what it covers and who is responsible
In Spain, consumer products have three years legal guarantee This warranty covers defects in origin, materials, and manufacturing; it does not include damage from misuse, shock, or liquids, but it does protect against faults that appear with normal use Of the device.
Who's responsible? If you bought your iPhone at an Apple Store, Apple responds for three years. If you purchased it from a distributor (for example, a large store or operator) or bought a refurbished product, Apple usually takes care of the first year and the seller takes care of the second and third. This means that, after the first year, You will have to manage the repair with the store. where you purchased it, unless the seller refers you to Apple or an authorized service.
If the purchase is in the name of a company or self-employed person for professional use, the protection changes: the legal guarantee is reduced to one year. Here it makes more sense to consider options like AppleCare+ to extend coverage and streamline support and repairs. If you need recommendations for devices for professional environments, check out the best iPhones for your business.
Although Apple specifies that its warranty does not cover liquid damage, Check out the dangers of using your iPhone on the beach; Spanish consumer regulations may provide protection if the failure occurs under normal conditions of use. If in doubt, Go to support and exercise your rights; the company must justify if it denies coverage due to misuse.
AppleCare+: What it is, who offers it, and how it complies with the law
AppleCare+ is a voluntary insurance which can be purchased for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, AirPods, HomePod, Apple TV and monitors, among others. In Spain, the policy is underwritten by the Spanish branch of AIG Europe SA, while Apple distributes it and handles claims. on behalf of AIG.
It's important to understand that AppleCare+ doesn't replace the legal warranty or the manufacturer's limited warranty; it complements it. Design, material, and manufacturing defects They are not covered by AppleCare+ because they are already covered by the Consumer and User Law and by the Apple warranty. AppleCare+ comes into play, above all, to accidental damage and for extended technical support.
In Spain, AppleCare+ hardware coverage begins on the date of purchase and lasts 24 months (36 months on Apple Watch Hermès and Edition). Plus, add priority access to Apple technical support after the initial free support from the manufacturer ends, which begins on the day of purchase Of the device.
AppleCare+ is available in the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands; it is not offered in Canary Islands, Ceuta and Melilla. You can hire it when you purchase the equipment or within 60 days thereafter, either in store, on the authorized distributor's website or from the settings of the device itself in certain cases.
What AppleCare+ Covers: Accidental Damage, Battery, and Support
The policy covers the repair or replacement of the device in the event of Accidental damage, understood as physical breakages or failures due to an unforeseen event (falls, contact with liquids, extreme environmental conditions) that affect functionality. This includes, for example, cracked screen if it affects the display.
It also covers the battery drain when its capacity drops below 80% of the original specified value. Service may be provided with new or reconditioned parts equivalent to new in performance and reliability, and an equivalent Apple device may be provided for replacement. No cash compensation is paid.: The solution is to repair or replace.
In parallel, you will have priority access to the Apple Support for the covered device, its operating system and Apple apps, as well as connectivity issues with compatible Apple accessories (e.g., AirPort or Apple TV), both on the current version and previous major versions.
Important: Apple may install the latest software and operating system on a replacement, which may cause the replacement to become unusable. some third-party apps may not be compatibleIf you arrange a repair in another country, Apple may use locally comparable parts or models, and you must comply with import and assume fees or taxes applicable.
iPhone Theft and Loss Plan: Requirements and Costs
In addition to the standard plan, there is an AppleCare+ option for iPhone with coverage of theft and loss, which adds up to two annual incidents for these cases. To use it, it is mandatory that the benefit Search is activated on your iPhone at the time of the incident and during processing; you will be required to erase the device, deactivate it, and surrender ownership before receiving a replacement.
This plan maintains the benefits of AppleCare+ and adds the option of replacement with a specific franchise for theft or loss. For practical purposes, it will be necessary to complete the process with AIG through its designated portal for these cases, following the conditions and verifications marked.
Deductibles per claim: how much you pay for each repair
Each valid Accidental Damage claim with AppleCare+ carries a excess that you pay when processing the service. For iPhone, for example, there are two sections: 29 euros when the damage affects only the screen and 99 euros for other accidental damage. If the iPhone has more damage than just the screen (e.g., a bent casing), the incident is reduced to a other accidental damage.
These are the franchises indicated by team in Spain (mainland and Balearic Islands): Apple Watch except Hermès and Edition, 65 euros; Apple Watch Hermès Edition, 75 euros; HomePod, 29 euros; iPad, 49 euros for accidental damage and 29 euros for the Apple Pencil; iPhone, 29 euros screen and 99 euros other damages; iPod, 29 euros; Apple and Beats headphones, 29 euros. The charge may vary if you manage the claim from another country, being paid in the local currency.
Financial limits for accidental damage claims
AppleCare+ sets a financial limit maximum for Accidental Damage that, when reached, ends that coverage (maintaining support and battery until the end of the period). Notable amounts include: Apple Watch Series 3, €350; Series 4 and 5, €600; Hermès/Edition, €1.000; HomePod, €350; iPad mini, €400; iPad Air, €600; iPad Pro 10,5, €900; iPad Pro 11, €1.000; iPad Pro 12,9, €1.300; iPhone 7, €500; iPhone 8, €550; iPhone 7 Plus/8 Plus, €600; iPhone XR/11, €700; iPhone X/XS/11 Pro, €1.050; iPhone XS Max/11 Pro Max, €1.200; iPod, €250; AirPods, 90 euros; Beats, prices range from 135 to 400 euros depending on the model.
These values ​​mark the maximum responsibility for each team in an Accidental Damage eventOnce you reach this limit, you will no longer be able to use that portion of your coverage, although you will continue to have battery support and coverage until the end of the limit.
AppleCare+ Pricing: Device Premium and Taxes
The AppleCare+ premium varies by product. For reference, these one-time payment figures were provided: Apple Watch Series 3, 65 euros; Series 4 and 5, 99 euros; Hermès/Edition, 199 euros; HomePod, 45 euros; iPad, iPad Air, and iPad mini, 79 euros; iPad Pro, 139 euros; iPhone 7 and 8, 149 euros; iPhone 7 Plus, 8 Plus, XR and 11, 169 euros; iPhone X, XS, XS Max and 11 Pro/Max, 229 euros; iPod, 59 euros; Apple and Beats headphones, 39 euros.
These premiums include the Insurance tax (which in these products is 6%) and the charge of the Insurance Compensation Consortium (0,018%), both subject to regulatory changes. You can pay with a single payment or in installments if you set a payment plan with Apple, a distributor or a financial institution.
Coverage period and when each part begins
AppleCare+ hardware coverage starts the day you sign up the policy. If you purchase it up to 60 days after purchasing the device, hardware protection begins on that date (it cannot be retroactive). Priority technical support becomes effective when free manufacturer support ends and concludes at 24 months (36 on Apple Watch Hermès/Edition) since the plan purchase.
The policy does not cover damages that occurred before you took it out. If you cancel or if AIG terminates the contract for the reasons stated above, you may end coverage Accidental Damage before the end, although the battery and support part is maintained until the expiration of the period.
How to process an incident: steps, options, and requirements
For a hardware claim involving AppleCare+, you must report it as soon as possible. You can go to a Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider, use the Apple support website or call by phone. They will ask for the serial number and, if necessary, proof of purchase and the certificate of coverage.
There are three service options: in-store repair, mail-in repair with packaging and postage provided by Apple, and the Express replacement service (ERS). In the latter, Apple sends a replacement and requires credit card authorization for the value of the product; if you don't return the original as directed, you will be charged a fee. will collect the authorized amountERS is not available for iPod or iPhone screen issues.
During service, Apple or your authorized service provider will erase your data and reformat your storage, so it's vital that you have backup. Do not send accessories that are not part of the claim (cases, car chargers, etc.), as they will not be returned. You must follow the instructions in packaging and shipping that they tell you.
For technical support, you can call Apple and provide your serial number for priority assistance. There are also free online support resources, and you may be asked to provide a copy of the form. remote diagnosis or serial number verification to resolve incidents.
What AppleCare+ Doesn't Cover: Key Exclusions
The following are excluded from coverage: equipment other than the registered one; misuse or intentional misuse; modifications or attempted alterations; service or repairs by unauthorized third parties; altered or removed serial numbers; opened equipment or equipment with unauthorized parts.
It also does not cover the loss or theft (except for the specific iPhone plan with that coverage), failure to return the device or its main components, cosmetic damage that does not affect functionality (scratches, microcracks, dents, discoloration), wear and tear for normal use, fire damage and, as already indicated, failures due to defects in materials, workmanship or design, which are dealt with by legal means or the limited warranty.
Technical support excludes uses outside of those specified in the manuals and specifications; issues that can be resolved with an update; effects of third-party products; incompatibilities with foreign systems; beta or pre-release software; damage to or loss of software and data; recovery or reinstallation of user programs; advice on everyday use without an underlying problem; and any loss covered by the Consortium.
Your obligations when making a claim and the anti-fraud policy
When opening a report, you must explain symptoms and possible causes, provide information about the model, system version, connected peripherals and actions done before the problem. You must follow Apple or authorized service instructions, package as directed, and provide key components upon request.
Neither AIG, Apple, nor authorized providers are responsible for indirect losses such as data recovery, loss of business, or loss of profits under this policy. If a claim results fraudulent or deceptive, it will be rejected, and Apple or AIG may report it to the authorities. Additionally, AIG may cancel the policy if it is reported that the device is being used to facilitate criminal activity.
Cancellations, refunds, transfers and complaints
You can cancel your plan at any time. If you paid with a single payment and you do so within the 30 days, you will receive a full refund; with installment payments, the payment plan provider will will refund the fees satisfied within that period. After 30 days, the refund is proportional to the amount of time not used if you paid in a single installment; with installments, there is no refund of what you already paid.
If you have already used the coverage on a valid claim, AIG will deduct the value of the benefit received from the refund, and there may be nothing left to return. All refunds exclude the insurance tax and the Consortium charge, which are not recoverable. The credit is made to the original card or, if this is not possible, to wire transfer.
You can transfer the policy with the equipment to another person residing in Spain (over 18 years of age), by notifying Apple so that it can issue an updated certificate. For business customers, the transfer must be between business customersYou must provide the serial number, the new owner's information, and report the number of Accidental Damage claims filed.
If you have a complaint, Apple handles it on behalf of AIG. You can also contact AIG directly and, if appropriate, go to the General Directorate of Insurance and Pension Funds or to the European Online Dispute Resolution platform. The policy is governed by the laws of Spain and disputes may be brought before the courts of the insured's domicile or submitted to arbitration or mediation.
Taxes, Consortium and Data Protection
The premium includes the insurance premium tax applicable to the product (for these devices, 6%) and the Insurance Compensation Consortium surcharge (0,018%The Consortium covers extraordinary damages in Spain under current circumstances and regulations when the risk is not covered by the policy or the insurer is unable to comply due to insolvency or liquidation.
In terms of privacy, AIG tries personal information To administer insurance, analyze risks and claims, manage sales and IT, prevent fraud and money laundering, comply with laws, comply with legal rights, and monitor quality. We may share data with group companies, insurers and reinsurers, agents, service providers, authorities, accident records and potential buyers, making international transfers with adequate protection measures.
The company recognizes rights of access, rectification, deletion, opposition, limitation, portability and withdrawal of consent, in addition to the possibility of filing a complaint with the supervisory authority. You can consult AIG's privacy policy and contact its Data Protection Officer at the addresses provided by the insurer. makes available.
Who's who: insurer, distributor and supervisors
The insurance is underwritten by the Spanish delegation of AIG Europe SA, an entity registered and authorized in Luxembourg and supervised by the Commissariat aux Assurances, with commercial operations also subject to the regulations of the Directorate General of Insurance in Spain. Apple Distribution International, headquartered in Cork (Ireland), distributes the policy and handles claims on behalf of AIG, under the supervision of the Central Bank of Ireland where appropriate.
In the policy documentation you will find the addresses and registration details of both entities. regulatory systems of the countries where they operate may differ from those of Luxembourg, and this is stated in the general information of the policy.
Off-grid repairs and the debate on the right to repair
If you take your iPhone to an unauthorized service for repair, it is very likely that they will install non-original parts and void the manufacturer's warranty. Apple restricts who can repair with official components and certifications, and reserves authorized service status for those who meet these requirements. its technical requirements quality cocao products.
In the United States the movement of right to repair to force manufacturers to provide original parts and service manuals to independent repairers. The goal is to bring consumer electronics closer to a model similar to that of automobiles, with more open access to official components. To better understand the limitations on sealed equipment, see Why Macs are hard to repair.
Practical advice: Is AppleCare+ worth it?
AppleCare+ provides peace of mind if you're prone to falls, travel a lot, or rely on your phone for work, thanks to reduced-price repairs, priority support, and options like express replacement. If you take good care of your devices, use a case and screen protector, and usually renew every 2 or 3 years (when the phone is still under warranty), you may not need it.
When deciding, consider: the cost of the plan versus deductibles, your history of mishaps, how long you plan to keep the device, whether you need theft and loss coverage (and whether you have Find My enabled), and the time difference between official services and some stores where the repairs may take longer.
Keep the receipt, make regular backups, and if you have any problems, always contact customer service. Although Apple excludes liquids from its limited warranty, in Spain consumer law covers you for manufacturing defects, and the seller must prove misuse If they intend to deny coverage, insist and, if appropriate, appeal to consumer protection.
You already know when you have to pay and when you don't: if it's a manufacturing defect, the legal warranty covers you; if it's an accident, AppleCare+ reduces the cost; and if you don't have a plan and it's not covered by the warranty, you'll have to pay for the repair. The essential thing is that you know your consumer rights, the actual conditions of AppleCare+ and the procedures to claim without wasting time or money.
