In November 2021, Apple announced that it was opening a new Self Service Repair store to “allow customers who are comfortable with completing their own repairs access to Apple genuine parts and tools.” What started with the iPhone 12 and 13 has expanded to dozens of products, including most Macs and the latest iPhone, the 16e. Now Apple has announced that you can fix your iPad at home too.
Owners of the iPad Air (M2 and M3), iPad Pro (M4), iPad mini (A17 Pro), or iPad (A16) can diagnose and repair their tablet at home with official Apple parts, including displays, batteries, cameras, and the USB-C port. Users will be able to order parts and tools through Apple’s Self Service Repair Store.
Other than a small number of people who want the satisfaction of the DIY repair, however, most users will still opt for a Genius Bar appointment. Prices aren’t available in the store yet, but they’re not likely to be cheap. For example, a display for the 14-inch M3 Pro/Max MacBook Pro, which “requires a new Lid Angle Sensor to complete repair,” costs $659.12, while a logic board is $1,847.12. Apple provides a small credit for returning the replacement part ($439.12 for the logic board, for example) and offers a $49 7-day toolkit rental. Plus, the process is decidedly difficult.
In addition to the iPad, Apple has also expanded the Self Service Repair Program to Canada.
If you are the type of person who likes to repair your own Apple kit you might like to read You can now diagnose iPhone and Mac problems without going to an Apple Store and if the iPad is beyond repair take a look at The best Apple deals: Huge savings on Macs, AirPods, iPhones, and more!
Author: Michael Simon, Executive Editor, Macworld
Michael Simon has been covering Apple for more than 20 years. He started covering rumors with Spymac when the iPod was the iWalk, and has owned nearly every iPhone Apple has ever made. He lives in Connecticut with his wife, son, and far too many gadgets.