The iPhone 11 was one of Apple’s most popular smartphones, with over 50% market share in the US at its peak. With sleek design and powerful hardware, it’s easy to see why so many users continue to hang onto their iPhone 11 devices even after newer models are released. However, with heavy daily use, accidents do happen and screens crack or internal components fail over time. So when your trusty iPhone 11 starts having issues, is it worth repairing or is it time to upgrade?
Overview of Common iPhone 11 Issues
Some of the most common problems reported with the iPhone 11 models include cracked screens, battery issues, speaker issues, and charging port issues.
Cracked screens are one of the most prevalent problems. The iPhone 11’s front and back glass can easily crack if dropped. Repairing a cracked screen often requires full display assembly replacement. According to a Digital Trends article, Apple charges $279 to replace an iPhone 11 screen without AppleCare+ coverage.
Battery issues like fast battery drain and early shutdowns before the battery reads 0% are also frequently reported. As batteries chemically age and degrade, their maximum capacity and peak performance drops. Replacing an aged battery can restore battery life and performance. Apple charges $69 for out-of-warranty battery service.
Speaker issues like muffled or distorted audio are common on the iPhone 11 models. Speaker problems can stem from water damage or accumulated debris. Professional cleaning or speaker replacement may resolve these issues.
Finally, charging port issues like not charging, slow charging, or loose cables are widespread. The iPhone 11’s Lightning port is prone to wear and tear over time. If cleaning the port doesn’t help, the charging port may need to be replaced.
Cost of Professional Repairs
Getting an iPhone 11 repaired by Apple or an authorized service provider can be quite expensive depending on the issue. According to Apple’s repair website, screen repairs for the iPhone 11 through Apple start at $140 for the display and go up to $199 if there is also damage to the body of the phone.
Third party repair shops generally charge less, with average costs of $140-180 for just the iPhone 11 screen according to Swappa’s repair cost guide. But prices can vary widely depending on location and individual shops. Battery replacements through Apple cost $49-$69 but may be less at third party shops.
Other common iPhone repairs like charging port or speaker replacements range from $99-$229 through Apple. Water damage or other catastrophic damage can also quickly escalate costs into the $500 range. Using AppleCare+ warranty coverage can help limit some repair costs, but overall professional iPhone 11 repairs remain expensive.
Difficulty of DIY Repairs
While DIY repairs can save money compared to professional services, working on an iPhone 11 is quite complex for amateurs. Replacing the screen requires completely disassembling the phone and removing many small screws and connectors. According to iFixit’s repair guide, the iPhone 11 screen replacement difficulty is rated as “moderate” and they caution that instructions must be followed carefully to succeed.
Replacing the battery is similarly challenging. The battery adhesive is very strong, requiring heat to soften, and the pull tabs can rip off if too much force is used. There’s a serious risk of damaging connectors or other components if proper technique is not followed.
Overall, DIY repairs on an iPhone 11 require specialty tools, patience, and technical skill. Attempting complex repairs like the screen or battery has a high chance of failure for amateurs, resulting in possibly making the phone unusable. Unless you have repair experience, DIY repairs are not recommended.
Effect of Physical Damage on Resale Value
Physical damage like cracks and defects can significantly lower the resale value of an iPhone 11. According to BankMyCell, the average trade-in value for a damaged iPhone XS Max is between $40-$124, compared to over $500 for an undamaged device.
Apple’s own trade-in program offers nothing for iPhones with cracked screens or other physical damage, as noted in Apple Discussions. Devices must be in good working and cosmetic condition to qualify for trade-in credit. Severe screen cracks, back glass damage, dents, and water damage will all dramatically reduce an iPhone 11’s resale value.
Overall, physical defects like cracked screens can decrease an iPhone 11’s resale value by 50-75%. To maximize resale value, it’s critical to keep iPhones in pristine physical condition or repair any damage before trading in or reselling.
Apple Support & Warranty Options
Apple provides a one-year limited warranty on new iPhone purchases. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. According to Apple’s limited warranty terms, cosmetic damage like cracks or scratches are not covered. Only manufacturing defects that impair normal usage would be eligible for free repair or replacement under warranty.
The one-year limited warranty period starts on the original purchase date of the iPhone. For example, if you bought an iPhone 11 on January 1, 2020, the warranty would expire on January 1, 2021. After the one-year warranty expires, you would need to pay for any repairs out-of-pocket or rely on a separately purchased AppleCare+ extended warranty if applicable.
It’s important to note that a cracked screen would not be covered under the standard warranty. Only internal issues like a defective battery or faulty logic board would qualify for free repair during the warranty period. Overall, Apple’s warranty provides coverage for manufacturing issues but not physical or liquid damage caused by the owner.
Consider Upgrading vs Repairing
When determining whether to repair or replace your iPhone 11, it’s important to compare the cost of the repair versus the cost of upgrading to a new phone. According to Gadgetmates, minor fixes may be worth repairing, but major issues often warrant upgrading to a new device.
Repair costs can vary significantly depending on the extent of damage and where you go for repairs. According to Simply Fixable, iPhone 11 screen repairs can range from $145 at third-party repair shops to $339 at the Apple store. Back glass repairs are similarly priced. Full device replacements can cost up to $549 from Apple without warranty coverage.
In comparison, upgrading to a new iPhone 13 mini starts at $699, while the regular iPhone 13 starts at $799. Though pricier upfront, upgrading gets you the latest technology and full warranty protection. You’ll also likely use the new phone for 2-3 years, amortizing the upfront cost.
For minor issues, repairs may make financial sense. But for problems with major components like the screen, battery, or rear glass, the cost of quality repairs approaches or exceeds the cost of upgrading. In those cases, upgrading likely provides better value.
Maintenance to Prevent Damage
One of the best ways to avoid costly iPhone 11 repairs is by taking preventative measures to protect your device from damage in the first place. Using protective cases and screen protectors can help shield your iPhone from scratches, cracks, and other physical harm that could require professional repair down the line.
Apple offers a wide variety of cases and screen protectors for the iPhone 11, ranging from basic covers to heavy-duty protective cases. According to Apple’s website, their Silicone Case provides “a soft microfiber lining that helps protect your iPhone” while allowing access to buttons and ports. Meanwhile, the Leather Case “develops a natural patina over time” and shields the iPhone from drops up to 1 meter. For even more protection, Apple’s OtterBox cases defend against drops, scratches, and dust.
High quality screen protectors are also important for preventing cracks and scratches. Apple’s Belkin InvisiGlass Ultra screen protector provides “truly edge-to-edge protection” with a custom fit for the iPhone 11 display. Meanwhile, ZAGG’s InvisibleShield Glass Elite screen protector uses ion exchange technology for enhanced durability and scratch resistance.
By investing in sturdy cases and screen protectors, iPhone 11 owners can proactively avoid damage that would require expensive repairs down the road. Cases and protectors from Apple or other quality brands provide impact absorption, scratch protection, and peace of mind when using your iPhone 11 every day.
Conclusion
In summary, determining if repairing an iPhone 11 is worthwhile depends on several factors:
– The cost of a professional repair versus the current value of your phone. Repairs that exceed the phone’s value are difficult to justify.
– Your ability and comfort with performing DIY repairs. For minor issues, DIY may be appropriate if you have technical skills. More complex issues are best left to professionals.
– The extent of physical damage. Severely damaged devices may not be good candidates for repair from a cost perspective. Also, physical damage hurts resale value.
– Apple’s warranty and support options. Repairs may be free or discounted if you have AppleCare+ coverage. Out of warranty repairs can be costly.
– Whether you plan to use the phone longer term or upgrade soon. Repairs are harder to justify on old devices you plan to replace.
Carefully weighing these factors can determine if repairing an aging but still functional iPhone 11 makes financial and practical sense over upgrading to a new device.
Sources
[1] Apple Support. “iPhone Service Pricing.” Apple.com. https://support.apple.com/iphone/repair/service/pricing
[2] Thompson, Nicholas. “Replacing an iPhone Battery Can Suck…but You Should Do It Anyway.” WIRED. March 15, 2018. https://www.wired.com/story/replacing-iphone-battery/
[3] Segan, Sascha. “How Much Is Your iPhone 11 Worth Now?” PC Magazine. January 14, 2020. https://www.pcmag.com/news/how-much-is-your-iphone-11-worth-now
[4] Consumer Reports. “Everything You Need to Know About iPhone Repairs.” ConsumerReports.org. March 8, 2022. https://www.consumerreports.org/smartphones/everything-you-need-to-know-about-iphone-repairs-a5893112318/
