When you’re an Apple device user, it’s crucial to always know your device’s warranty status. Whether you’re using a brand new iPhone or an old MacBook, checking the warranty status of the device is all about prioritising your Apple investment.
AMT Electronics provides this comprehensive guide that will walk you through everything you need to know about checking your Apple warranty, understanding your coverage options and other related aspects.
What Is an Apple Warranty and What Does it Cover?
Understanding what it means to have Apple’s limited warranty is important. Apple’s limited warranty offers protection against hardware failures and manufacturing defects only for a limited period after your purchase.
The coverage includes replacements or repairs for failed components, provided the failure is due to manufacturing issues. This coverage clearly excludes normal wear and tear over time, liquid damage or even accidental damage.
The standard warranty covers the device itself and includes accessories like charging cables. The battery is also covered if it retains less than 80% of its original capacity. Problems like cosmetic damage, software issues and damage caused by users are, however, not covered under the standard/basic warranty.
It helps users a lot when they understand what’s covered and what’s not under their device’s warranty. It helps them arrive at an informed decision about seeking authorised repairs or purchasing additional protection plans. Many users tend to choose DIY fixes, and knowing the warranty status helps them too.
What Is Apple’s Standard Warranty Period?
If you’ve got no idea about how long Apple’s standard warranty is for different devices, it’s easy to remember because most Apple devices, including iPhones, Macs, iPads and Apple Watches, come with the same standard limited warranty of one year. The warranty period starts from the date of your device purchase or the date of activation.
On the other hand, some of the popular accessories, such as adapters and charging cables, don’t have such a long warranty period. Such accessories typically have a 90-day coverage. In case an accessory comes with the newly purchased device, then it’s covered under the same warranty period. While you start planning repairs or upgrades, it’s first important to know when your coverage exactly starts.
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How Can I Check My Apple Warranty Online?
- The fastest and most dependable method is to perform an Apple warranty check online.
- Visit Apple’s official warranty status page – https://checkcoverage.apple.com
- Enter your device’s serial number to view warranty details.
The system shows –
- Warranty status (active or expired)
- Coverage expiration date
- AppleCare+ protection (if applicable)
- Service and support coverage details
Pro tip – Use only the official Apple site to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Do I Need an Apple ID to Check My Warranty?
No, you may access Apple’s warranty checker if you have the device’s serial number. The Apple ID is required only for a basic Apple check of your warranty lookup. This facilitates checking of used devices and makes it convenient for family members to verify the warranty coverage of those who need help.
However, we always recommend our users link their Apple IDs to their devices for some additional benefits. It allows you to view purchase history and access detailed service records for the device. Moreover, you will receive timely notifications about warranty expiration dates directly through your account.
Another advantage of having your Apple ID linked is that it allows you to simultaneously check the warranty for multiple devices or even track your service history. You just need to sign in with your Apple ID and streamline the entire process. This will rather give you a comprehensive overview of all your Apple products in one place.
Is There a Way to Check the Warranty for a Used/Second-Hand Device?
For used devices, the serial number method works perfectly. Buyers can straightaway verify the warranty status before purchasing the device. This verification reveals a lot of valuable information about the remaining coverage of the particular device, which ultimately helps buyers negotiate fair pricing.
We always recommend that buyers of used Apple products must not miss an Apple store warranty check. Particulars such as the warranty status, AppleCare+ coverage, and service history of the device help buyers make an informed decision before they complete the transaction.
Is there anything to be aware of? Certainly. Remember that the warranty coverage doesn’t transfer ownership in Apple’s system. However, the coverage itself remains valid. For certain warranty claims, you might need the original purchase receipt. It’s advisable to ask the seller about the availability of necessary documentation.
Where Do I Find My Apple Device’s Serial Number?
1. iPhone / iPad
Go to Settings > General > About
2. Mac
Click the Apple menu > About This Mac
Or check the bottom of the device (for older models)
3. Apple Watch
Open the Watch app on your paired iPhone
Go to General > About
4. Other Locations
- Original packaging
- Etched on the device itself
- Settings app under device information
Pro tip – Don’t forget to take a photograph or make a note of your serial number and make sure you keep it handy for future warranty checks.
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What’s the Difference Between Apple Limited Warranty and AppleCare+?
Apple’s limited warranty provides one year of coverage for manufacturing defects but doesn’t cover accidental damage like drops or spills. On the contrary, AppleCare+ extends that coverage to two or three years, depending on the device, and includes accidental damage protection for a service fee. It also covers battery replacement if capacity falls below 80% and gives you priority access to Apple Support and authorised repairs. When checking your warranty status, you’ll see both the limited warranty and AppleCare+ details listed separately.
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What Happens If My Apple Warranty Has Expired?
Once the warranty ends, you’ll need to pay for any kind of repairs. Supported devices will still get service by Apple at additional costs. While many users tend to choose third-party repair shops for their cost-competitiveness, it’s important to understand that the cheaper options never assure the quality of parts and the prevention of any further issues.
If your current Apple device is experiencing less efficiency over the years, it’s time to decide whether to go for repairs or upgrade to a newer model.
Can I Check Warranty Status Without a Receipt?
Yes, you can check your Apple warranty using the device’s serial number, without needing a physical receipt. Apple tracks warranty coverage from the activation date, so the serial number lookup will show accurate results. A receipt might still be useful in cases where there’s a discrepancy or if the product was bought from a third-party seller.
Can I Extend My Warranty After Purchase?
The standard limited warranty is not extendable. However, purchasing AppleCare+ provides longer and broader protection. You must purchase AppleCare+ within 60 days after you buy a device. The 60-day timeframe may be variable for different devices. There are some retailers in the market offering warranty extensions on their own. The quality and coverage, not to mention, differ. One thing you must read is the fine print.
However, one may ask what if they’ve missed the AppleCare+ window. Even if you’ve missed the AppleCare+ timeframe, you can still protect your device with a genuine screen protector and a solid case. We recommend Apple users consider setting aside funds dedicated to future repairs.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I check warranty status using my device’s IMEI number?
No, Apple’s warranty system doesn’t accept IMEI numbers for coverage verification. It accepts only serial numbers.
Does checking my warranty status affect my coverage?
No, checking your warranty status has nothing to do with your coverage or the remaining protection period.
What if my warranty check shows “Please contact Apple Support”?
Usually, this indicates a system issue or special circumstance that needs direct Apple assistance.
Can I check the warranty for devices that won’t turn on?
Yes, you may check the warranty for your devices that won’t turn on, only if you can locate the serial number on the original packaging or device exterior.
Does warranty coverage pause if I don’t use my device?
No, even if you don’t use your device, warranty periods run continuously from activation or purchase date.