The short answer is it depends. Apple’s limited warranty and AppleCare+ plans may provide some coverage for water damage on an iPhone 11, but there are limitations.
Apple’s Limited Warranty
The iPhone 11 comes with a 1 year limited warranty from Apple covering defects in materials and workmanship. However, Apple’s limited warranty does not cover accidental damage like water damage. So if your iPhone 11 gets wet and stops working within the 1 year limited warranty period, Apple will not repair or replace it for free under the limited warranty.
Here are some key points about Apple’s limited warranty:
- Covers defects in materials and workmanship only
- Does not cover accidental damage, including water damage
- Lasts for 1 year from original purchase date
- Free repairs or replacements, at Apple’s discretion
- Available on all new iPhone 11 models
So in summary, the iPhone 11’s limited 1 year warranty provides no coverage for water damage. Any water damage repairs would not be covered for free by the limited warranty.
AppleCare+
Unlike the limited warranty, AppleCare+ for iPhone does provide some accidental damage protection, including for water damage. AppleCare+ extends repair coverage for 2 years beyond the limited 1 year warranty.
Here are the key points about AppleCare+ coverage for water damage on iPhone 11:
- Covers up to two incidents of accidental damage, including water damage
- Each incident is subject to a service fee – $29 for screen damage, $99 for other damage
- Only covers damage caused by liquids – not full water submersion
- Does not cover corrosion or liquid contact indicators
- Device must power on in order for liquid damage to be covered
- Repairs are done by Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider
- AppleCare+ must be purchased within 60 days of getting a new iPhone
So in summary, AppleCare+ for iPhone 11 will cover up to two incidents of accidental liquid damage during the 2 year coverage period. Each incident has a service fee of $29 or $99, depending on the type of damage. However, complete submersion or immersion in water is not covered.
Liquid Contact Indicators
It’s important to note that the iPhone 11 contains liquid contact indicator strips that will be triggered if the phone is exposed to liquid. If those indicators show damage, Apple may deny service for a water damage claim even if you have AppleCare+.
Out of Warranty Repairs
If your iPhone 11 suffers water damage after the 1 year limited warranty and any AppleCare+ coverage has expired, Apple may still be able to repair it, but there will be an out of warranty fee that can range from $299 to $599 depending on the model and damage.
Third Party Insurance
One other option to get coverage for water damage on the iPhone 11 is a third party insurance plan from a provider like SquareTrade or Worth Ave Group. These plans will generally cover accidental damage from handling, including full water submersion. Just note that you will need to purchase the policy up front, and claims will have a deductible fee you must pay.
Water Resistance of iPhone 11
Beyond insurance coverage, it’s also important to understand the water and splash resistance capabilities of the iPhone 11 itself. Here’s a quick overview:
- IP68 rating for up to 2 meters depth for 30 minutes
- Resistant to spills from common liquids like soda, coffee, tea, beer etc.
- Water resistance may degrade over time
- Liquid contact indicators will turn red if water is detected internally
- Water damage may not be immediately apparent
- Avoid exposing phone to soap, detergent, acids, oils, etc
While the iPhone 11 has impressive water resistance, it is still possible for liquid to enter the device in certain scenarios, particularly with prolonged submersion. Caution should be used to avoid directly exposing the phone to water when possible.
Tips to Prevent Water Damage
Here are some tips to help prevent water damage to your iPhone 11:
- Use a protective case to provide extra protection from drops and splashes.
- Avoid using the phone in the rain or other wet environments.
- Don’t submerge the phone in water intentionally.
- Wipe off any spills or moisture right away.
- Don’t take the phone in the shower or use it close to a sink.
- Turn off the phone immediately if it gets wet and do not try to charge it.
- Do not handle the phone with wet hands.
- Get AppleCare+ for extra coverage against water damage incidents.
Drying a Wet iPhone 11
If your iPhone 11 does get wet, here are some steps to dry it out and try to recover it:
- Immediately power off the iPhone if possible – don’t try charging it
- Do not try to use the phone while wet as this can short circuit it
- Remove any cases, covers, screen protectors
- Gently wipe away any excess moisture with a dry lint-free cloth
- Use a fan to blow air across the phone to help evaporate liquid
- Place the phone in front of a dehumidifier or with silica gel packs
- Let the phone thoroughly dry for at least 24 hours minimum
- Check for red liquid contact indicator strips for signs of internal water damage
- Do not try to power on the iPhone until completely dried
The key is to resist the urge to power on your wet iPhone 11 right away. Let it thoroughly dry first to give it the best chance of working again once powered on.
Repair Options for Liquid Damaged iPhone 11
If drying out your iPhone 11 does not restore its functionality after a water damage incident, you will likely need to pursue repair or replacement options depending on the severity of the damage.
Here are your options if your iPhone 11 experiences significant liquid damage:
| Repair Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Apple Repair | Take to Apple Store or contact Apple Support to arrange mail-in repair service. Fees apply if out of warranty or AppleCare+ claims exhausted. |
| AppleCare+ Claim | File an AppleCare+ claim for up to 2 accidental damage incidents during 2 years of coverage. $29 fee for screen or $99 for other damage. |
| Third Party Repair | Use a third party repair shop – may be cheaper but voids warranty. |
| Carrier Insurance | Make a claim if you purchased carrier insurance that covers water damage. |
| Third Party Insurance | File a claim with a third party insurer like SquareTrade or Worth Ave Group if you purchased their policy. |
| Out of Warranty Fee | Pay Apple’s out of warranty service fee. Ranges from $299 to $599. |
It’s best to pursue Apple repair options first if the device is within warranty or you have an AppleCare+ plan. Hardware repairs may be required depending on factors like corrosion damage.
Replacement iPhone 11
For severe, catastrophic liquid damage not repairable at a reasonable cost, your only option may be to replace your damaged iPhone 11 entirely. Here are ways to get a replacement:
- Purchase a new iPhone 11 – costs $599 and up
- File an AppleCare+ claim to get a replacement device for $99 fee
- Make a claim on carrier or third party insurance that provides replacement phones
- Trade in the damaged device if it has any value and put credit towards a new one
A replacement iPhone 11 can be obtained directly from Apple either online, in an Apple Store, or through a mail-in replacement by making an AppleCare+ claim. Just be sure to back up your data first before switching to a new iPhone.
Preparing an Insurance Claim for Water Damage
If you need to file an insurance claim due to iPhone 11 water damage, either through AppleCare+ or a third party insurer, here are some tips for making the claims process smooth:
- Review your coverage details so you understand what is covered
- Have your proof of insurance readily available
- Backup your iPhone data to iCloud or iTunes before submitting device
- Provide accurate details on when and how water damage occurred
- Note if any troubleshooting steps were taken to dry the device
- Request a replacement device if damage appears irreparable
- Send any requested documents and be responsive if more info needed
- Pay any relevant repair fees or deductibles for your coverage
Being organized, understanding your coverage, and providing detailed information can help facilitate a smooth claim process. Make backups before sending in your device so your data is not lost.
Conclusion
While the iPhone 11 has impressive resistance to splashes and spills, it is not completely waterproof. Accidental water damage can still occur in some situations that may not necessarily be covered under warranty or AppleCare+.
To best protect your iPhone 11 investment from potential liquid damage:
- Handle it carefully around sinks, tubs, pools, and other wet environments
- Invest in a waterproof case for wet activities like boating or swimming
- Wipe off spills and splashes immediately
- Don’t intentionally submerge the phone or use it underwater
- Consider additional coverage like AppleCare+ or insurance if concerned about water risks
While Apple’s limited 1 year warranty does not cover water damage, AppleCare+ plans and third party insurance do provide some protection in case an accident happens. But your best defense is preventing water exposure in the first place whenever possible.