You just dropped your iPhone and the back glass is broken. You may still be able to swipe and tap on the screen and connect to Wi-Fi, but water can still seep inside, and if your iPhone has wireless charging, it likely won’t work anymore. When your iPhone back glass is shattered, it can be difficult to figure out how to repair it, which repair option is the best, or how much it cost to repair it. Here’s everything you need to know about iPhone back glass repairs.
Can cracked iPhone back glass be fixed?
Yes! The process of repairing an iPhone back glass involves melting the strong adhesive that bonds the glass to the phone’s back (for most models) and laser machines are typically used for this purpose. Apple has changed the process a little with newer model phones but the repair price stays high with how much the replacement parts now cost.
How to repair the cracked back of your iPhone
When the back of your iPhone is cracked, you have a few options.
Put a case on your iPhone
Your first instinct—especially if your phone is still working—may be to cover up the damage with a case. Sure, this will prevent the cracks from spreading, but water can still get inside because the cracks are still there. Besides, if you didn’t use a case in the first place, you probably won’t like the look and feel of your iPhone with one on.
Buy a new iPhone
If your phone is more than 3 years old, you may want to consider buying a new one, especially if you’ve been considering an upgrade.
DIY iPhone back glass replacement
If your tech-savvy friend offers to do the repair, or if you think you could replace the cracked iPhone back glass, that could be a good option — but it usually isn’t.
Repairing an iPhone is a delicate process. There are dozens of tiny components inside your iPhone, so it’s easy to make a mistake or leave something out of place. If a tiny cable gets even the slightest of tears, you could be without your iPhone until you find a replacement back glass or purchase a new iPhone.
Furthermore, you need to use a specialized toolkit just to get inside of your iPhone to begin with.
If your DIY iPhone back glass replacement goes wrong, don’t expect Apple to bail you out. If Apple finds out you opened up your iPhone and tried to replace a damaged back glass, they almost certainly won’t fix your iPhone.
Even Apple Geniuses make mistakes when repairing cracked iPhone back glasses — that’s why Apple Stores are filled with replacement parts. More problems happen in the Genius Room than you probably imagine.
Professional iPhone back glass repair
The best way to troubleshoot the cracked back of your iPhone is to take your device to an Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider, or contact Apple Support. If you opt to go to the Apple Store for a repair, make sure to schedule an appointment first.
How much does it cost to change an iPhone back glass?
, iPhone back glass repair costs range from $29 and $549, depending on your iPhone model and if you have AppleCare+ or not. If you have AppleCare+, an iPhone back glass repair usually costs $29. However, if you don’t have AppleCare+, you’re probably going to pay at least $169 — and possibly as much as $549. That’s just if the back glass is cracked or broken.
If there’s any other damage to your iPhone, such as a dent or bend in its frame, the repair cost will be even more.
If you have AppleCare+, Apple may be your best and least expensive option. If you don’t have AppleCare+, or if you need to have your iPhone back glass fixed immediately, you may want to consider third-party repair option.
Here’s what the current pricing looks like for the iPhone back glass repairs:
| iPhone Model | Apple Repair Cost | AppleCare+ Cost | Third Party |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | $199 | $29 | $199 |
| iPhone 16 Pro | $169 | $29 | $169 |
| iPhone 16 Plus | $199 | $29 | $179 |
| iPhone 16 | $169 | $29 | $169 |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | $199 | $29 | $199 |
| iPhone 15 Pro | $169 | $29 | $169 |
| iPhone 15 Plus | $199 | $29 | $179 |
| iPhone 15 | $169 | $29 | $169 |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | $549 | $29 | $199 |
| iPhone 14 Pro | $499 | $29 | $199 |
| iPhone 14 Plus | $199 | $29 | $159 |
| iPhone 14 | $169 | $29 | $159 |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | $499 | $29 | $129 |
| iPhone 13 Pro | $449 | $29 | $129 |
| iPhone 13 | $349 | $29 | $129 |
| iPhone 13 Mini | $299 | $29 | $129 |
| iPhone 12 Pro Max | $499 | $29 | $109 |
| iPhone 12 Pro | $449 | $29 | $109 |
| iPhone 12 | $349 | $29 | $99 |
| iPhone 12 Mini | $299 | $29 | $99 |
Important Note: It’s significantly cheap to repair the back glass on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models due to a major design change made by Apple: on its newer phone models, the back glass can be removed and replaced independently of the rest of the phone. Earlier models more deeply integrated the back into the body of the device, making them much more complicated to fix. iFixit called earlier iPhone back glass repairs, "One of the most expensive and difficult repairs possible.
Additional Notes:
- AppleCare+ Deductible: The $29 fee is a general deductible for AppleCare+ screen or back glass repairs.
- Outdated models: Apple may consider older models obsolete and no longer offer repairs.
Is It Worth It and Do I Have To Do It?
The repair cost depends on whether you have AppleCare+ or if you need to pay out-of-pocket. If you have Apple Care+ and can get it done for Free or $29, it’s an absolutely no-brainer. For $29 or less it’s an absolute necessity to get it fixed. If you don’t have Apple Care+ the decision becomes more nuanced because of the cost. The cost will vary depending on whether the service is provided directly by Apple, an authorized service provider, or a third-party. It is recommended that you call around to a few places local to you to inquire about the repair costs and to have your phone inspected to see if other repairs might also be required.
Replacing the back of your iPhone is generally worth it if:
- The damage affects functionality: If the cracks compromise the camera lens or other components, a replacement is necessary.
- You plan to sell or trade-in your phone:A cracked back significantly reduces resale value.
- You value aesthetics: A pristine appearance matters to you.
- Your phone is still under warranty or AppleCare+: Repair costs might be covered or reduced.
However, if the damage is purely cosmetic and doesn’t bother you, or if your phone is nearing the end of its lifespan, a replacement might not be the most cost-effective option. Consider using a case to protect the phone and conceal the damage.
Is It Necessary To Replace A Cracked Back Glass?
Replacing a cracked back glass is not strictly necessary for basic phone functionality. However, there are several reasons why you might want to consider it:
- Water resistance: Cracks can compromise your iPhone’s water resistance, making it more susceptible to water damage.
- Safety: Sharp edges from the cracked glass can cause cuts or scratches.
- Internal component protection: The back glass provides a layer of protection for the internal components of your iPhone. A cracked back could leave them more vulnerable to dust, debris, and further damage.
- Resale value: A cracked back will significantly reduce the resale or trade-in value of your iPhone.
Best Of Luck
I hope this article helped you figure out which repair option is best for your cracked iPhone back glass. It can be incredibly frustrating when your iPhone glass back is cracked, so I wish you the best of luck in getting it repaired. Leave a comment down below and let me know what your experience has been like with cracked iPhone back glasses and getting them repaired!