When it comes to repairing an iPhone, it is important to be very clear about the Consumer rights, warranties, and how Apple operates in each case. This guide compiles and repackages all the key information available in Apple's terms of service, AppleCare+ policies, Spanish regulations, and common practices of authorized service providers, so you can make informed decisions without losing coverage.
In addition to explaining what the legal warranty covers and in which cases AppleCare+ is included, you will see how the quotes, original parts and service options (in-store, mail-in, and express replacement), what happens to your data during the repair, and what to do if you're denied coverage you believe you're owed. We also include country-specific details, liability limits, and special conditions in Spain that affect you directly.
Legal guarantee in Spain and how Apple interprets it
In Spain, the current regulation establishes that consumer products have three years legal guarantee. Apple applies this obligation as follows: if you purchased the iPhone directly from an Apple Store, the company assumes coverage for three years; if you purchased it from an authorized reseller or other seller, Apple covers the first year and the merchant takes care of the second and third.
For professional purchases (companies and self-employed workers), things change: legal coverage is reduced to one year when used professionallyIn any case, AppleCare+ allows you to expand and strengthen your coverage with specific insurance terms managed by AIG in Spain.
Remember that the legal guarantee covers factory defects and problems with materials or labor not attributable to the user. Accidental damage, bumps, or liquids are not covered by the legal warranty, but may be covered by AppleCare+ with a deductible.
Apple warns that contractual benefits (limited warranty, AppleCare and service agreements) are in addition to the rights granted by consumer lawIf you have any questions, you can contact the consumer authorities or the citizen service center for your specific case.
What Apple's warranty covers and what it doesn't cover for repairs
Apple's warranty (and the legal one) covers manufacturing defects and hardware failures not caused by the user. If applicable, Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP) will resolve the issue free of charge. When necessary, Apple may install system software updates that prevent you from returning to a previous version of the system, which could affect third-party apps.
Warranty coverage does not apply to items caused by accident, abuse, unauthorized modifications, misuse, exposure to liquids, extreme environments, electrical fluctuations, non-genuine parts, altered serial numbers, or catastrophic damage. In these cases, Apple may charge a diagnostic fee and return the unrepaired product if you don't accept the new estimate. If a previous intervention not carried out by Apple caused damage, the company may ask for your consent to pay additional costs or decline the repair.
Apple is not responsible for the loss or exposure of data during service. It is your responsibility to back up, erase sensitive data, and disable passwords before returning your device. For Mac data transfer services, Apple may move your information from the original device to a replacement device or to compatible external storage that you provide, without save copy on Apple systems.
Apple may use new or pre-used original parts that have been tested and found to meet internal functional requirements; it typically retains the replaced part and provides the new part to you. If a law requires the replacement part to be returned to you, You can recover it by paying its costSpare parts may come from other countries and maintain equivalent functionality.
If the repair requires unforeseen work or parts, Apple will ask you to approve a updated budget. If you do not agree, the product will be returned to you. Remember that some Old equipment may be considered obsolete or "vintage", and the hardware service may not be available Available now to them.
AppleCare and AppleCare+: Coverage, Prices, and Limits
AppleCare+ is an insurance distributed by Apple and underwritten in Spain by AIG Europe SA that covers incidents such as accidental damage and battery drain, in addition to priority technical support during the contracted period. There is also a plan with theft and loss coverage (when available), which adds incidents due to theft or loss if you had "Find Your Own" activated, the iPhone linked to your Apple ID, and you complete the deletion and transfer process from the lost device.
On iPhone, AppleCare+ currently offers unlimited incidents of accidental damage with a service deductible (for example, €29 for a broken screen and €99 for other damage, depending on the current terms). For reference, guide prices for recent models have been published as €169 for AppleCare+ or €229 for AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss, which vary by device and market.
Repairs or replacements under AppleCare+ are performed with equipment and parts that may include new or previously used original components, tested to meet functional requirements. It does not cover loss or theft unless you purchase the specific option, and it does not cover failures due to design, material, or manufacturing defects, as these are covered by the legal or limited warranty from Apple during his tenure.
AppleCare+ coverage begins on the purchase date. Apple technical support extends throughout the plan period and requires validation the serial number and proof of purchase. Some options, such as expedited or international replacement for lost or stolen devices, are subject to availability and regional restrictions.
For theft and loss, Apple requires an active "Find" account, association with your Apple ID, and completion of the application with AIG on their portal. The franchise and limits vary by country. AIG's information also includes data protection, policy transfer, and the complaints procedure for the Directorate General of Insurance and Pension Funds in Spain.
Service options: In-store, by mail, and Express Replacement (ERS)
Apple determines the applicable service option based on the product and country, always in accordance with the law. There are three main options: autonomous piece (Apple will send you the replacement part and instructions if the part is easily replaced), mail-in service, and Express Replacement Service (ERS).
In "self-contained piece", it may be required to return the replaced part within 10 days; if you don't, you'll be charged the amount agreed upon when you requested service. For mail-in service, Apple provides packaging and sometimes a prepaid label to ship the device to its center, returning it repaired or with replacement functional equivalent.
ERS works like this: Apple first sends you a replacement device, applies a temporary detention on a card for the replacement value, and you must return the original within 10 days. If it arrives on time and the repair is covered by warranty/AppleCare+/consumer law, the hold is removed; if you don't return the original or it doesn't meet the requirements, will charge the value full replacement or the difference from the out-of-warranty rate, as applicable.
Apple also manages delivery times and warns that, once the shipment is prepared, it cannot be changed. delivery addressFor deliveries that require a signature, you can authorize receipt without one, assuming the risks.
Remember that Apple offers a tool to estimate repair costs (quote calculator), and AASPs can set their own rates; it's a good idea to request a quote in advance and compare authorized options nearby.
Genuine parts, third-party repairs, and Self Service Repair program
Apple may repair using new or reconditioned original parts, and typically retains the replaced part. If the serial number is altered, the device contains unauthorized parts or there have been modifications beyond the control of Apple/AASP, the company may deny coverage, charge for diagnostics, or request your authorization for additional costs.
Repairing in unauthorized workshops may be cheaper, but it entails risks: Apple could invalidate the warranty for unauthorized parts or interventions and refuse to cover future incidents. If you still resort to a third party, try to use original spare parts or certified equivalents and keep all documentation of the intervention.
Apple has opened its "Self Service Repair" program for certain models, providing manuals, tools, and original parts to experienced users. However, it requires technical knowledge and precision; Performing a repair incorrectly can worsen the damage or leave the device without coverage.
As a condition of service, Apple limits the offer to end users, may refuse suspected resale orders and prohibits sales to minors In this context, it also reserves the right to change service options and prices (without affecting services already started) and to correct typographical errors on its pages.
Budgets, diagnoses and rates
Apple may request approval from a revised budget if you discover additional parts or labor not initially contemplated. If you do not accept, return the unrepaired product. A diagnostic fee (including shipping costs) may also be charged when it is determined that the product: does not require service, the fault is due to software or data, requires intervention by parts not supplied by Apple, requires additional work that you did not authorize, or is not repairable due to altered serial number, accident, liquid, neglect, misuse, extreme environments, physical/electrical stress, lightning, static electricity, fire, acts of God, or other external causes.
An important note: Available options may vary by country, and the service agreement specifies a list of territories where it is valid. If you are located outside of the country, the service may not be available due to legal or logistical restrictions.
Data protection and backups during repair
Before handing in your iPhone, back up your data, erase personal information, and disable passwords. Apple makes it clear that it is not responsible for the loss, recovery or exposure of data or programs during the repair. You may also accept software license terms on your behalf to complete the requested service.
If the service includes data transfer (for example, on a Mac), Apple may move data directly from the original computer to the replacement computer or to a external storage that you provide, without hosting content on your own systems. Once the service is completed, your responsibility will be to restore data and passwords.
Apple processes personal data in accordance with its Privacy Policy, collecting it to manage sales, provide service, and comply with regulations. You can exercise Privacy rights through its official channels; in Spain, the corresponding data protection obligations apply.
Collection, abandonment and custody deadlines
When the product is ready, Apple will notify you and store the equipment free of charge for 30 daysAfter that time, you can charge €30 per day for storage. If the item is ultimately considered abandoned, Apple may assume ownership as compensation for those costs and dispose of the item. abandoned product.
In Europe, if you do not claim the product or pay charges within 60 days of notification, Apple will set a period for collection and may claim damages, including storage costsIn Austria, the Czech Republic, and Germany, Apple may retain the product until full payment is made and may charge storage costs if it is not picked up in a timely manner.
Repair service warranty and limitation of liability
In addition to what is required by Spanish law, Apple guarantees for six months from the repair That the service was performed professionally and that the replacement parts are free from defects (unless otherwise stated). For Mac notebooks, batteries installed out of warranty are covered by a one-year warranty from the date of service, to the extent permitted by law.
If there is a breach of that service guarantee, Apple may reinstate the service, repair or replace the part, or refund the cost of the repair. To file a claim, you must return the product to the place where the service was performed. However, Apple limits its liability to the extent permitted by law and is not responsible for indirect or punitive damages, loss of availability, loss of profits or corruption of data, with legal exceptions such as death or personal injury.
Some jurisdictions restrict these exclusions, so they may do not apply yourself certain limits. In the EU, Apple provides information about the online dispute resolution (ODR) platform and clarifies that it is neither required nor intends to participate in alternative dispute resolution, something you should also keep in mind.
Country Variations, California Notices, and Export Control
The service agreement contemplates country-specific differences. In the United States (and in particular in California), there are specific warnings: the reseller must provide a written estimate and cannot exceed the estimate without consent; in addition, the warranty period is extended by the time the product is being repaired. Apple also applies sales tax based on the shipping status and invoice date.
In terms of exports, repaired products cannot be used, exported or re-exported in violation of applicable laws, or send them to embargoed countries or to people on restricted lists. You declare that you do not fall into any of these situations and will not use the product for prohibited purposes.
How to ask for a second opinion and defend your rights
If a center denies your coverage and you are not satisfied, gather everything: proof of purchase, case numbers, written diagnoses, communications, and photos of the device's condition. Then, request a second opinion at another Apple Store or AASP; explain your history and request an independent diagnosis.
If the rejection persists, ask an Apple specialist to review the case (escalation) and demand the technical report that justifies the refusal (e.g., "liquid damage"). A qualified external expert may contradict the diagnosis if it shows a welding fault or a manufacturing defect. With both assessments, you present a formal appeal to Apple and, if necessary, go to the consumer authorities.
Practical advice and typical cases
When considering repairs on or off the official circuit, weigh the cost and risk. For accidental damage not covered by warranty, an external repair shop may be faster and cheaper, but you could compromise future repairs. Apple coverageIf you choose a third-party service provider, try to use genuine parts or certified equivalents, retain any recalled spares, and document everything with photos and invoices.
Example: They ask you to replace your entire iPhone due to a breakage. Ask for a written diagnosis, consult another AASP, and compare. If one detects original defect, demands reconsideration. If Apple insists on rejecting the phone and you need it as soon as possible, consider getting it repaired outside of the warranty period, considering the impact on future coverage.
Revilogy: an independent SAT in Valencia as an example
Outside the official circuit, there are independent technical services such as Revilogy in Valencia which illustrate what you can expect from this type of workshop: comprehensive repairs (screens, batteries, and motherboards) with high-quality spare parts, warranty coverage, and clear quotes before proceeding.
His proposal emphasizes honest diagnosis, preventive maintenance (cleaning, calibrations, updates, improvements), software/hardware support, attention to individuals and companies with fleets, and comfortable logistics of pickup and delivery .
In methodology, these workshops document reception, perform tests, follow technical protocols and they conclude with a quality test. Among their reasons for choosing the service, they cite transparency, speed without improvisation, and a guarantee of intervention. data security and sustainable orientation (repair extends the useful life and reduces waste).
Additional useful information from the Apple service agreement
Keep in mind other points of the agreement: Apple only sells to end users, it can reject suspicious orders from resale, and requires the card security code to prevent unauthorized use. For payments, debit/check card limits may apply that delay processing, and Apple sends confirmation by email or mail when accept the order.
On a contractual level, Apple can modify the terms of its online pages, suspend access for maintenance and subcontract to service providersPlease also remember that in the event of a conflict between translations, the English version prevails, and certain documents or support materials may only be available in that language.
Finally, if your product is being repaired and services cannot be performed due to reasons beyond Apple's control, cases of force majeureApple also maintains its legal rights against non-payment, including retention of repaired equipment in certain jurisdictions until the charges are paid.
With all of the above, it will be easier for you to move between legal guarantees, AppleCare+, budgets and original parts without losing sight of your consumer rights nor the actual limits of the service: make backup copies, require written diagnoses, compare authoritative opinions, review deductibles and conditions, and document each step so that no decision catches you off guard.
