If your iPhone has been exposed to water in 2026, don’t panic. Liquid damage can often be repaired if the right steps are taken immediately. First, you must verify if your device still falls under any official protection plans.
Apple Warranty vs. Water Damage (2026 Facts)
It is important to note that Apple’s standard 1-year limited warranty **does not cover liquid damage**. Apple technicians use **Liquid Contact Indicators (LCI)** located inside the device. If these sensors have turned red, your warranty claim will likely be denied.
| Service Type |
Covered by Apple? |
Estimated Cost (2026) |
| Manufacturing Defects |
YES (FREE) |
$0 |
| Water/Liquid Damage |
NO |
$299 – $549 |
| MobileCares Cleaning |
Service Provider |
Affordable / Expert Care |
How to Handle Water Exposure
In 2026, modern iPhones (like iPhone 16 and 17) have high water resistance, but seals can degrade over time. If your phone gets wet, power it off immediately, remove the SIM tray, and avoid using rice, as it can cause further corrosion to internal components.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Apple’s 1-year warranty cover water damage?
No, the standard limited warranty only covers manufacturing defects. Liquid damage is classified as accidental damage and is not covered.
2. Is water damage covered under AppleCare+?
Yes, AppleCare+ includes coverage for accidental liquid damage, though you will be required to pay a fixed deductible or service fee.
3. How much is a repair if the warranty is expired?
Out-of-warranty repairs for newer models (iPhone 16 or 17) can cost between $329 and $379 depending on the extent of the damage.
4. Will Apple delete my data during a repair?
In most cases, yes. Apple technicians may reset the device or replace major hardware components, which is why we strongly recommend a full backup.
5. Can I check my warranty with an IMEI?
Yes, you can use your device’s IMEI or Serial Number to check your current coverage status via the official Apple portal.
6. Does Apple offer global warranty for iPhones?
iPhone warranty service is often restricted to the country where the device was originally purchased, unlike the global warranty offered for MacBooks.
