If your AirPods are not working properly and are still under warranty, you may qualify for free repair or replacement from Apple. This guide will help you check your warranty status, understand what is covered, and explore your repair and replacement options. Many people want to know if their AirPods are covered by warranty and what repair options are available if they encounter issues. Apple provides a limited warranty for AirPods, usually active for one year from the purchase date, covering manufacturing defects but not wear from regular use.
For additional protection, there’s also AppleCare+ for Headphones, which extends coverage and includes battery service if it retains less than 80% of its original capacity. To check if your AirPods are still under warranty, start by checking the serial number on Apple’s warranty status page. This will show if your device is still covered and if you can receive support or repairs at no extra cost. If your warranty has expired or if you have an issue like accidental damage, which isn’t covered under the standard warranty, Apple offers service for a fee. Always check if a replacement or repair through Apple is worth it compared to buying a new set, as sometimes costs can be high.
Warranty Process For Airpods
If your AirPods stop working properly, you may be eligible for a free repair or replacement under Apple’s warranty or AppleCare+. Here’s how to check eligibility and request service.
1. Check Your Warranty or AppleCare+ Coverage
- Standard Warranty: All AirPods come with a 1‑year limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects (source: Apple Support).
- AppleCare+: If purchased, AppleCare+ extends coverage to 2 years and includes accidental damage protection (with a service fee per incident).
- Out of Warranty: You can still replace individual AirPods or the case for a fee if coverage has expired.
👉 Check your coverage at Apple’s Check Coverage page.
2. Identify the Issue
Apple may replace your AirPods for free if:
- They have audio issues (e.g., crackling, static, low volume).
- The battery won’t hold a charge (and it’s not just normal wear).
- They fall under an Apple replacement program (like the AirPods Pro sound issue recall) (source: 9to5Mac).
3. Start a Service Request
You have several options:
- Online: Go to Apple’s AirPods repair page and start a service request.
- Apple Store: Book a Genius Bar appointment for in‑person support.
- Authorized Service Provider: Find a nearby Apple Authorized Service Provider.
- Mail‑In Service: Apple can send you a prepaid box to ship your AirPods for inspection (source: SoundGuys).
4. Express Replacement (Optional)
If you don’t want to wait:
- Apple offers Express Replacement Service for AirPods under warranty or AppleCare+.
- They’ll send you replacement AirPods first, and you return the defective ones afterward (source: Apple Support).
5. Costs to Expect
- Within Warranty: Free if it’s a manufacturing defect.
- With AppleCare+: $29 per AirPod or case for accidental damage.
- Out of Warranty: Replacement fees vary (around $69–$89 per AirPod, $59–$99 for cases, depending on the model).
6. Tips Before Sending Them In
- Clean your AirPods gently — Apple may reject replacements if the issue is just debris.
- Unpair them from your devices before mailing.
- Keep your proof of purchase handy.
✅ Summary:
Check your warranty, confirm the issue, and request service through Apple’s website, an Apple Store, or mail‑in repair. If covered, Apple will repair or replace your defective AirPods at no cost; otherwise, you’ll pay a replacement fee.
Get Your AirPods Working Like New: Warranty and Repair Guide
Checking Your AirPods Warranty Coverage
To see if your AirPods are still under warranty, you have a few options:
- Check Coverage Online: Visit Apple’s Check Coverage website (https://checkcoverage.apple.com/) and enter your AirPods serial number.
- Use the Apple Support App: Open the Apple Support app on your iPhone or iPad, go to the “Devices” tab, select your AirPods, and tap “Coverage.”
- Contact Apple Support: Call or chat with Apple Support for assistance in checking your warranty status.
AirPods Warranty Coverage and Repairs
| Issue | Covered by Warranty? | Possible Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing defects | Yes | Free repair or replacement |
| Battery issues (within 1 year) | Yes | Free battery service (if capacity is below 80%) |
| Accidental damage | No | Paid repair or replacement (out-of-warranty fees apply) |
| Lost or stolen AirPods | No | Purchase replacement AirPods (no discounts or special offers available) |
AirPods Repair and Replacement Options
- Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider: Bring your AirPods in for inspection and repair.
- Mail-in Repair: Request a mail-in repair kit from Apple.
- Express Replacement Service (AppleCare+): Get a replacement pair of AirPods sent to you before you send in your defective pair (available with AppleCare+).
- Out-of-Warranty Replacement: Purchase new AirPods if your warranty has expired or the issue isn’t covered.
Additional Tips for AirPods Warranty Claims
- Gather proof of purchase: Have your original receipt or order confirmation ready.
- Back up your AirPods: Make sure your AirPods are paired with your device and back up any data.
- Clean your AirPods: Remove any debris or earwax before sending them in for repair.
Key Takeaways
- AirPods come with a one-year limited warranty covering manufacturing faults.
- Check warranty status online using the AirPods’ serial number.
- AppleCare+ extends coverage and provides battery service if under 80% capacity.
Determining Warranty Coverage and Eligibility
It’s important for AirPods owners to understand their warranty status and service options. Knowing where and how to check this can save time and hassle.
Check Coverage Status
To find out if your AirPods are still covered by warranty, you can simply visit the Apple Support website. Here’s how:
- Locate the serial number of your AirPods. This is found on the underside of the case lid or in the device settings.
- Go to Apple’s “Check Coverage” webpage.
- Enter the serial number and complete any requested security steps.
- View your service options and coverage status.
Understanding Apple’s Limited Warranty
Every pair of AirPods comes with Apple’s Limited Warranty. This warranty includes:
- 1 year from retail sale date for hardware repairs.
- 90 days of free technical support.
The warranty does not cover wear from normal use like a worn-out battery. You’ll also find additional rights under consumer law, which may offer extra protection.
AppleCare+ Benefits
For those who opted for AppleCare+ for their AirPods, here are some key benefits:
- Extended warranty period beyond the standard warranty.
- Coverage for 2 incidents of accidental damage. A fee applies per incident.
- Battery service if battery holds less than 80% of its original capacity.
Checking eligibility for these benefits involves providing a serial number on the Apple Support website.
By staying informed about the status of their AirPods warranty, owners can make informed decisions regarding service and repairs. Always keep your purchase receipts or online confirmation as proof of the retail sale date, which is crucial for warranty verification.
Service and Repair Options
Apple offers various ways for AirPods owners to repair or replace their devices when needed.
Repair Process at Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider
If your AirPods are broken, you can take them to an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider. First, they diagnose the issue. If it’s fixable, they will repair it. Sometimes they replace parts. You may need to pay a service fee, tax, and possibly a shipping fee if they send your AirPods for repair.
Dealing with Accidental Damage and Battery Issues
Accidental damage is not covered by the Apple warranty. However, battery service is available. If your AirPods battery holds less than 80% of its original capacity and they’re under AppleCare+, it’s free. Without AppleCare+, there will be a fee.
Exploring Replacement Possibilities
There are times when AirPods cannot be repaired and need replacing. This can happen through Apple’s replacement service. There might be costs involved, especially if the AirPods are out of warranty. An authorized service provider can guide you through the options for replacing your AirPods.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the AirPods warranty process, from checking coverage to handling repairs.
How can I check if my AirPods are still under warranty?
You can confirm the warranty status of your AirPods by visiting the Apple Support website. There, you’ll input your AirPods’ serial number to review your eligibility for support and extended coverage.
What is the process for repairing AirPods under warranty?
If your AirPods are under warranty and have no physical damage, take them to an authorized Apple service provider. They will inspect them and perform any covered repairs at no extra cost.
Will my warranty cover the cost of replacing a single AirPod?
The warranty may cover a single AirPod replacement. If you have AppleCare+ for Headphones and your battery holds less than 80% of its original capacity, it’s included. Otherwise, there can be a service fee.
Is accidental damage to AirPods covered by the warranty?
Accidental damage like drops or water spills is usually not covered under the standard Apple warranty. AppleCare+ provides additional protection, which does cover accidental damage with a fee.
How can I replace a damaged AirPods Pro case under warranty?
For a damaged AirPods Pro case, you can visit an Apple Store or contact Apple Support. They’ll assess it to see if it’s eligible for a warranty replacement.
Are there any conditions under which warranty will not cover AirPod damage?
The warranty does not cover AirPods that are damaged from misuse, accidents, modifications, or wear from normal use. Unauthorized repairs can also void the warranty.
