A cracked iPhone back can turn an expensive device into a costly repair job. Apple charges between $199 to $599 for back glass repairs depending on the iPhone model, while third-party shops typically charge $110 to $350 for the same service. The repair cost often surprises users since many assume back glass damage falls under standard warranty coverage.
Most people don’t realize that back glass repairs cost significantly more than screen replacements at Apple stores. The company classifies back glass damage as “other damage,” which carries higher repair fees than front screen issues. Even users with AppleCare face service fees, though these remain much lower than out-of-warranty costs.
Understanding repair options helps iPhone users make smart decisions when accidents happen. This guide breaks down exact costs across different iPhone models and repair providers. Users will learn when repairs make financial sense and when replacement might be the better choice.
Back of iPhone Cracked Repair Cost: Full Pricing & Repair Options
If you’ve cracked the back glass of your iPhone, you’re likely wondering about the repair cost and the best options available. Here’s a complete guide covering pricing and repair choices for back glass damage on iPhones.
Why Is Back Glass Repair Expensive?
The back glass on modern iPhones is made of durable but fragile materials designed to enable wireless charging and a premium look. Repairing or replacing it requires specialized tools and expertise, which can make the process costly.
Official Apple Repair Pricing (2025)
Apple has recently reduced prices for back glass repairs, especially on newer models with easier-to-replace designs:
- iPhone 15 Pro Max: $199
- iPhone 15 Pro: $169
- iPhone 14 Pro Max: $549 (previous generation, more complex to repair)
- iPhone 13: $199
These prices apply whether you visit an Apple Store or an authorized service provider. Apple’s pricing reflects the quality of OEM parts and warranty coverage after repair.
Third-Party Repair Shops
Third-party repair services can offer more affordable and faster solutions:
- Prices typically range from $99 to $239 depending on the iPhone model and part quality.
- Some shops offer OEM-quality parts for around $190-$240 for titanium models like the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
- Third-party repairs may be quicker but could void Apple warranty or AppleCare coverage.
DIY Repair Kits
While DIY kits exist, repairing the back glass yourself is challenging and risky:
- Requires special tools and skills to avoid further damage.
- May void your warranty.
- Not recommended unless you have repair experience.
Is It Worth Repairing the Back Glass?
Consider these factors:
- Model age: Newer models have more expensive repairs but better resale value.
- Repair cost vs. phone value: If repair costs approach the phone’s resale or replacement value, it might be better to upgrade.
- Aesthetic and functional impact: Cracked back glass can affect wireless charging and overall phone durability.
Summary Table of Back Glass Repair Costs (Approximate)
| iPhone Model | Apple Repair Cost | Third-Party Repair Cost | DIY Kit Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | $199 | $190 – $240 | High |
| iPhone 15 Pro | $169 | $150 – $220 | High |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | $549 | $300 – $400 | High |
| iPhone 13 | $199 | $150 – $200 | High |
Final Recommendations
- For warranty or AppleCare+ holders, go through Apple for the best guarantee.
- For out-of-warranty phones, third-party repair shops offer cost-effective alternatives.
- Avoid DIY unless you have technical expertise.
- Always check for authorized service providers to ensure quality parts and service.
If you want the most reliable and hassle-free repair, Apple’s official service remains the safest bet despite higher prices for older models. For budget-conscious users, reputable third-party repair shops are a solid option.
Key Takeaways
- Back glass repair costs range from $110 at third-party shops to $599 at Apple depending on the iPhone model
- Apple classifies back glass damage as “other damage” which costs more than standard screen repairs
- Comparing repair costs against device value helps determine whether fixing or replacing makes more sense
Back of iPhone Cracked Repair Cost Breakdown
iPhone back glass repair costs range from $29 with AppleCare+ to $549 without coverage, depending on the model and repair provider. Third-party shops typically charge $80-$250, while DIY kits start around $50 but carry significant risks.
Apple Repair Pricing for Back Glass
Apple charges between $169 and $549 for back glass replacement without AppleCare+ coverage. The iPhone 15 series costs $169-$199 due to design improvements that make repairs easier. Older models like the iPhone 14 Pro Max can cost up to $549.
Current Apple Pricing:
- iPhone 15 series: $169-$199
- iPhone 14 series: $169-$549
- iPhone 13 series: $299-$499
- iPhone 12 series: $99-$299
Pro models cost more than standard versions because of bonded glass layers. Apple stores guarantee original parts and maintain water resistance ratings. Repairs take 3-5 business days through mail-in service or same-day if parts are available in-store.
Apple authorized service providers use identical pricing and parts. They offer the same warranty protection as Apple stores but may have shorter wait times in some areas.
AppleCare+ Deductible and Coverage
AppleCare+ reduces back glass repair costs to just $29-$39 regardless of iPhone model. This flat deductible applies to all covered damage incidents including cracked back glass.
The coverage pays for itself after one repair. A single iPhone 15 Pro Max repair costs $199 without coverage but only $29 with AppleCare+. This saves $170 on just one incident.
AppleCare+ covers up to two incidents of accidental damage per 12-month period. Each incident requires the deductible payment. The service includes genuine Apple parts and maintains full warranty coverage.
Users must purchase AppleCare+ within 60 days of buying their iPhone. Monthly plans cost $7.99-$13.49 depending on the model.
Third-Party Repair Shop Pricing
Independent repair shops charge $80-$250 for iPhone back glass replacement. Pricing varies by location, with urban areas typically costing more than rural locations.
Typical Third-Party Pricing:
- iPhone 15 series: $120-$200
- iPhone 14 series: $100-$250
- iPhone 13 series: $150-$250
- iPhone 12 series: $80-$180
Most third-party shops complete repairs in 60-120 minutes. They often use aftermarket glass that looks identical but may lack Apple’s nano-ceramic coating. This can affect scratch resistance and MagSafe magnet strength.
Chain repair shops like uBreakiFix offer standardized pricing and warranties. Local independent shops may negotiate prices but quality varies significantly between technicians.
Third-party repairs may void remaining manufacturer warranty. Water resistance is not guaranteed unless shops use proper sealing techniques and materials.
DIY Back Glass Replacement Costs
DIY repair kits cost $50-$200 including replacement glass, tools, and adhesive strips. Amazon and iFixit sell complete kits with heating pads, pry tools, and pre-cut adhesive.
DIY Kit Components:
- Replacement back glass: $30-$80
- Tool kit: $15-$30
- Adhesive strips: $5-$15
- Heating pad: $10-$25
Additional supplies often needed include UV adhesive ($12) and replacement gaskets ($8). Total costs can reach $120-$150 for premium kits with all components.
DIY repairs take 2-3 hours for first-time attempts. Success rates vary widely based on experience level. Failed attempts often damage other components like cameras or antenna cables.
No warranty coverage applies to DIY repairs. Mistakes can double repair costs if professional help becomes necessary.
Factors Impacting iPhone Back Glass Repair Cost
iPhone model significantly affects repair pricing. Newer Pro models with bonded glass layers cost more than standard editions with removable panels.
Geographic location creates price variations of $50-$100 for the same repair. Manhattan shops charge $220 while similar repairs in smaller cities cost $140.
Cost Factors:
- iPhone model and age
- Geographic location
- Part quality (OEM vs aftermarket)
- Repair complexity
- Warranty coverage
- Shop overhead costs
Part quality affects long-term durability. Original Apple glass costs $50-$120 while aftermarket alternatives save $20-$40 but may scratch easier.
Labor rates vary by shop type. Apple stores have fixed pricing while independent shops adjust rates based on local competition and overhead costs.
Comparing Repair Quality and Providers
Apple stores and authorized providers deliver consistent quality using genuine parts. They maintain water resistance ratings and preserve existing warranties.
Third-party shops offer faster turnaround but quality depends on technician skill. High-end shops use laser equipment similar to Apple while budget providers rely on heat guns and manual tools.
Quality Comparison:
| Provider Type | Parts Quality | Water Resistance | Warranty | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Store | OEM | Guaranteed | Full | 3-5 days |
| Authorized Provider | OEM | Guaranteed | Full | 1-3 days |
| Premium Third-Party | OEM/High Quality | Usually | Limited | Same day |
| Budget Third-Party | Aftermarket | Not guaranteed | 30-90 days | 1-2 hours |
Premium repair shops charge $150-$250 but use quality parts and proper sealing techniques. Budget shops at $80-$120 may compromise on materials or rushed installation.
When Back Glass Replacement Is Necessary
Cracked back glass requires immediate attention when cracks spread or pieces fall out. Sharp glass fragments can cut fingers or damage internal components.
Water resistance fails when cracks reach the edges or camera module. Even small cracks allow moisture to enter and damage internal circuits over time.
MagSafe charging becomes unreliable with severely cracked glass. The magnetic alignment depends on intact glass structure to position accessories correctly.
Repair Urgency Levels:
- Immediate: Loose glass pieces, edge cracks
- Soon: Large spider cracks, camera area damage
- Eventually: Small corner cracks, cosmetic damage only
Resale value drops $200-$250 with cracked back glass regardless of crack severity. Prompt repairs preserve device value better than delayed fixes.
Risks of Delaying or Avoiding Repair
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Frequently Asked Questions
iPhone back glass repair costs vary widely based on the device model, repair provider, and damage extent. Most repairs range from $29 with AppleCare+ to $599 without warranty coverage at Apple.
What is the average repair cost for the back glass of an iPhone 12?
iPhone 12 back glass repair costs $29 with AppleCare+ coverage. Without AppleCare+, Apple charges between $349-$599 for this repair.
Third-party repair shops typically charge $130-$230 for iPhone 12 back glass replacement. Local repair costs may vary by location and shop quality.
Are there cost differences in back glass replacement between iPhone models?
Yes, newer iPhone models cost more to repair than older ones. iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max repairs are more expensive than iPhone 8 or iPhone X models.
Apple charges the same $349-$599 range for iPhone models 8 through 11 Pro Max. Third-party shops adjust their prices based on parts availability and complexity.
What factors influence the repair cost for a cracked iPhone back?
The iPhone model affects repair costs most significantly. Newer models with advanced features cost more to fix.
Repair provider choice matters greatly. Apple authorized service costs more than independent shops but maintains warranty coverage.
Damage extent impacts pricing. Minor cracks may cost less than complete back glass replacement with internal damage.
Can the back glass of an iPhone 13 be replaced, and if so, at what price range?
iPhone 13 back glass can be replaced by Apple or third-party repair shops. Apple charges $29 with AppleCare+ or $349-$599 without coverage.
Independent repair shops charge $150-$250 for iPhone 13 back glass replacement. Prices vary by location and shop reputation.
Is repairing a cracked back on an iPhone worth the cost compared to other options?
Minor cracks that only affect appearance may be worth repairing for $29-$150. Extensive damage costing $400+ might not justify repair on older models.
Consider the phone’s age and trade-in value before deciding. New phone purchases may offer better long-term value than expensive repairs.
How can I find a reputable iPhone repair service near me for back glass damage?
Check for shops that use proper laser equipment for back glass removal. This method reduces damage risk and repair time.
Look for businesses with good online reviews and warranty policies. Ask about technician experience with your specific iPhone model.
Verify the shop uses genuine or high-quality replacement parts. Avoid services that seem unusually cheap compared to local competitors.
