Apple Dead Pixel Warranty Guide
Apple's approach to dead pixels on iPhone — what is covered, how to claim, and repair costs without warranty.
Apple's Dead Pixel Policy for iPhone
Apple's 1-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects, which includes dead pixels that appear during normal use without physical damage. Unlike some manufacturers, Apple has no published minimum pixel count — a single dead pixel is typically sufficient for a warranty claim.
Apple's assessment is case-by-case. In practice, dead pixels on iPhone are almost always replaced if: (a) the phone is within the warranty period, (b) there is no evidence of physical damage, and (c) the pixel defect is confirmed on a diagnostic device at the Genius Bar.
AppleCare+ — Extended Coverage
AppleCare+ extends your coverage to 2 years and adds accidental damage protection. If you dropped the phone and got a dead pixel, AppleCare+ can cover it with a screen damage service fee (currently $29 for screen/glass damage).
AppleCare+ can be added within 60 days of purchase if you did not buy it at the time of sale. You can purchase it through the Settings app on your iPhone.
How to Book a Genius Bar Appointment
- Go to getsupport.apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID.
- Select iPhone → Display → Pixel Issue / Dead Pixel.
- Choose Genius Bar, Apple Authorized Service Provider, or Mail-in Repair.
- Bring your phone and proof of purchase. The diagnostic takes 5–10 minutes.
iPhone Dead Pixel Repair Cost Without Warranty
| Model | Out-of-Warranty | AppleCare+ fee |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | ~$399 | $29 |
| iPhone 17 Pro | ~$379 | $29 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | ~$379 | $29 |
| iPhone 16 Pro | ~$329 | $29 |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | ~$329 | $29 |
| iPhone 14 | ~$229 | $29 |
| iPhone 13 | ~$229 | $29 |
Prices are estimates. Check apple.com/support/repair for current pricing.
What to Do If Apple Rejects Your Claim
If Apple determines the damage is accidental (e.g. there is evidence of a drop), the standard warranty will not cover it. Options:
- Use AppleCare+ if you have it — accidental damage service fee is $29.
- Check your homeowner's or renter's insurance — some policies cover phone screens.
- Check if your credit card includes phone protection (some Visa Signature, Amex cards do).
- Get a quote from a third-party repair shop — often 30–50% cheaper than Apple for older models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Apple cover 1 dead pixel on iPhone?
Yes, in most cases. Apple assesses each device individually and typically replaces the screen or the device for any dead pixel caused by a manufacturing defect. Unlike Samsung, Apple has no published minimum-pixel threshold for phones.
How long does Apple warranty last?
The standard 1-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects. AppleCare+ extends this to 2 years and adds accidental damage coverage (a screen damage service fee applies).
What is the iPhone dead pixel repair cost without warranty?
Out-of-warranty screen repair costs vary by model: roughly $279–$379 for iPhone 16 Pro models, $229–$329 for iPhone 15 models. With AppleCare+, the accidental damage service fee is $29 for screen damage.
Can I book a Genius Bar appointment online?
Yes. Go to getsupport.apple.com, select iPhone → Display → Dead Pixel, and book a Genius Bar appointment or arrange mail-in service.
What is Apple Express Replacement?
Apple ships a replacement device before you return the original. Your credit card is held as a deposit. You then return the original within 10 days. Available for in-warranty devices.
Will Apple replace my iPhone for a dead pixel?
Apple may replace the screen or the entire device depending on availability and the cost of repair. For newer models, a screen replacement is more common. For older models, they may offer a refurbished device replacement.