AppleCare+ for MacBooks is Apple’s extended warranty program that provides additional coverage and technical support beyond the standard one-year limited warranty included with all new MacBooks. AppleCare+ extends hardware coverage to three years from the original purchase date and adds additional benefits like 24/7 priority access to Apple support and accidental damage protection.1
One of the most common questions MacBook owners have is whether water damage is covered by AppleCare+. Accidental spills and liquid damage are some of the most frequent ways that electronics like laptops can be damaged, so it’s important to understand what your extended warranty does and does not cover in these situations. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of AppleCare+ for MacBooks and examine the specifics around coverage for water damage repairs.
What Does AppleCare for MacBooks Cover?
All new MacBooks come with Apple’s standard one-year limited warranty which covers defects in materials and workmanship. This includes complimentary hardware repairs and 90 days of telephone technical support from Apple (AppleCare Products – Mac).
To extend coverage further, you can purchase AppleCare+ which provides up to three years of expert technical support and additional hardware coverage from Apple (AppleCare Products). AppleCare+ extends service coverage to two years from the original purchase date of the MacBook and adds up to two incidents of accidental damage protection every 12 months, each subject to a service fee of $99 for screen damage or external enclosure damage, or $299 for other damage.
Specifically, AppleCare+ for MacBooks covers both hardware defects and accidental damage from handling, including spills, drops, and electrical surges. Some of the key repairs covered include display or monitor cracks, liquid submersion, crushed devices, and damaged ports or buttons.
Does AppleCare+ Cover Water Damage?
AppleCare+ does provide some coverage for water damage on MacBooks, but the details depend on the type of damage. According to Apple’s support site, AppleCare+ covers accidental damage from spills and splashes on MacBooks 1. This means minor exposure to liquids like having a drink spilled on the keyboard or getting small amounts of water on the machine. However, AppleCare+ does not cover damage from liquid submersion, which is when the entire MacBook is fully immersed in liquid. Submersion damage requires more complicated repairs that AppleCare+ does not cover.
The key differences in water damage coverage under AppleCare+ are:
- Spills/splashes are covered: AppleCare+ covers accidental damage when small amounts of liquid come into contact with the MacBook.
- Submersion/immersion is not covered: AppleCare+ does not cover damage from fully submerging the MacBook in liquid.
So in summary, AppleCare+ provides some protection against minor water exposure events like spills, but does not cover repairs for extensive water damage from submerging the device.
What Repairs Does AppleCare+ Cover for Water Damage?
AppleCare+ for MacBooks covers the following water damage repairs:
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Screen damage: AppleCare+ will cover the cost to repair or replace a water damaged screen for a service fee of $99.
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External enclosure damage: If the external enclosure, like the bottom case or keyboard, suffers water damage, AppleCare+ covers the repair or replacement for a $99 service fee.
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Other damage: For any other water damage not specifically listed, such as to the logic board or trackpad, AppleCare+ covers the repair or replacement for a $299 service fee.
To get a water damaged MacBook repaired under AppleCare+, you need to take it to an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider. A technician will examine the computer and determine if the damage can be repaired or if certain components need to be replaced. You will pay the applicable service fee to Apple for the work done.
In most cases of water damage, Apple can repair or replace affected parts to restore your MacBook to full working condition. However, if the damage is extreme and deemed irreparable by Apple technicians, they may need to replace the entire device for a fee.
What Repairs Does AppleCare+ Not Cover?
While AppleCare+ does cover water damage repairs in many cases, there are some important exceptions. AppleCare+ does not cover repairs when there is corrosion or rust damage to the MacBook resulting from the liquid exposure. Even if the initial water incident was covered, AppleCare+ excludes coverage for damage that occurs after the approved repair if it was caused by liquid contact.
For example, if an approved water damage repair was completed but corrosion continued internally and damaged components later on, the subsequent damage would not be covered under AppleCare+. This is because the corrosion resulted from the initial liquid exposure incident.
AppleCare+ also does not cover replacements of expendable parts like the battery if water damage was the cause. Liquid damage can degrade battery performance over time. Overall, AppleCare+ excludes repairs when liquid causes issues like corrosion, rust, short circuits, or errors beyond the original water exposure even if it initially covered the water damage claim.
Sources:
https://support.apple.com/en-us/102249
https://www.apple.com/legal/sales-support/applecare/applecareplus/docs/applecareplusnaen.html
How to File a Water Damage Claim with AppleCare+
Filing a water damage claim with AppleCare+ is straightforward, though there are some key steps to follow and documentation you’ll need to provide:
First, you’ll need to contact Apple Support as soon as possible after the water damage occurs. You can reach them by phone, online chat, email, or by booking an appointment at an Apple Store. When you contact them, explain that you have AppleCare+ coverage and need to file a claim for water damage.
You’ll need to provide the serial number for your MacBook so Apple can verify your AppleCare+ coverage. It’s also helpful if you have the original purchase receipt for your MacBook and AppleCare+ plan.
Apple will run diagnostics remotely or have you bring your MacBook into the store. You’ll need to provide any details about how the water damage occurred. Apple may ask you to provide photos documenting the water damage.
If the diagnostics determine the damage is covered by AppleCare+, Apple will give you instructions on next steps. This may include mailing your MacBook to Apple, or scheduling a repair appointment at an Apple Store.
Apple aims to complete water damage repairs within 5-7 business days. You may be provided a loaner laptop if it will take longer.
There is a service fee for water damage claims – $99 for iPhone, $299 for MacBook. This must be paid upfront before the repair work begins.
Following the proper claim process quickly is important, as water damage can worsen over time if left untreated. AppleCare+ covers water damage as long as the repair claim is filed within 60 days of the damage occurring.
Tips to Prevent Water Damage
Here are some tips to help prevent water damage to your MacBook:
Be very careful when having liquids near your MacBook. Avoid placing drinks right next to your laptop. Use a separate drink coaster or table instead. If you spill a drink on your MacBook, act quickly to prevent liquid from seeping into the internal components.
Don’t use your MacBook in extremely humid environments or anywhere it may get wet. For example, avoid using it outdoors during rain or in steamy bathrooms where condensation can form.
Keep food and drinks away from your workspace to lower the chance of spills occurring. Set up a designated snack area away from electronics.
Invest in a waterproof case or shell that can shield your MacBook from water damage. Look for a high-quality, snug fitting shell.
Handle your MacBook gently to avoid cracks and damage to the exterior shell that could allow water to seep in.
Keep your MacBook away from sinks, tubs, pools, and other sources of water. Don’t leave it unattended in rooms where it could get wet.
Use a laptop privacy screen and keyboard cover that can prevent splashed liquids from getting into the internal chassis.
Avoid storing your MacBook in very humid places like a bathroom or basement. Opt for cool, dry locations instead.
Be mindful of weather forecasts. During rainstorms, be extra careful to keep your MacBook protected.
Consider investing in a laptop bag that is water resistant or waterproof for extra protection when commuting.
What If Water Damage Isn’t Covered by AppleCare+?
If your MacBook sustains water damage that is not covered under your AppleCare+ warranty, repair costs can add up quickly. Out of warranty repairs for water damage typically range from $500 – $700 based on anecdotal reports (https://discussions.apple.com/thread/251416697). The repair cost depends on the extent of the damage and which components need to be replaced.
For minor spills that only damage the keyboard or trackpad, Apple charges around $500 for the repair. But if the logic board is also damaged, costs can exceed $700. Replacing the entire logic board can cost $500 alone. The display is also expensive to replace at around $500 if the LCD, backlight, or other components are damaged.
Some options if water damage repairs aren’t covered by AppleCare+:
- Check your homeowners or renters insurance policy – some may cover accidental damage to laptops with a deductible.
- Use a third-party repair shop – prices may be cheaper than Apple but quality may vary.
- Sell the MacBook for parts to recover some value.
- Replace the MacBook, especially if repair costs exceed replacement cost.
The best option is trying to prevent water damage in the first place. But if it does occur, AppleCare+ can provide peace of mind by covering repairs at a lower cost. Without coverage, water damage can become very expensive for out of warranty MacBooks.
AppleCare+ vs. Other Extended Warranties
When purchasing an extended warranty for your MacBook, you have the choice between AppleCare+ or a third-party warranty provider. Here are some key differences between AppleCare+ and other extended warranty options:
Pros of AppleCare+:
- Covers accidental damage like liquid spills and drops
- Global repair coverage with access to Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers
- Telephone and chat support directly from Apple
- May be cheaper than third-party options
Cons of AppleCare+:
- Only covers Apple devices
- Repair fees apply for screen or external enclosure damage ($99 for screen, $299 for external enclosure)
- Doesn’t cover theft or loss
Third-party extended warranties can sometimes provide benefits like coverage for theft, loss, or damage from power surges. However, repair services may be more limited compared to AppleCare+, and you’ll be dealing with the third-party company rather than Apple if you need to make a claim. Additionally, third-party warranties can sometimes cost more than AppleCare+ without providing much extra benefit.
Overall, AppleCare+ is usually the best option for peace of mind when protecting an Apple device like a MacBook. But it’s a good idea to compare plans and pricing if you are considering a third-party extended warranty.
Conclusion
So is water damage covered by AppleCare+ for MacBooks? The answer is yes, but only under certain circumstances. AppleCare+ will cover the cost of repairs or replacement if your MacBook is damaged by liquid spills or accidental water contact, as long as there is no other damage beyond what the water caused. However, AppleCare+ does not cover any water damage from floods, storms, or other natural disasters.
To file a claim for water damage, you need to contact Apple Support right away so they can evaluate your device and determine if the damage can be repaired. If it cannot be fixed, you may receive a replacement MacBook, but you will need to pay a service fee. Remember that time is of the essence for water damage, so don’t delay in contacting Apple.
The best way to handle potential water damage is by preventing it in the first place. Avoid drinking or eating near your MacBook, don’t use it in direct sunlight by a pool or at the beach where splashing could occur, and keep it away from areas where leaks or flooding are possible. A bit of caution goes a long way in protecting your investment.
While AppleCare+ offers the best coverage for water damage incidents, you do have other options if your MacBook is no longer eligible. You can explore independent repair shops to fix the device, or look into third party extended warranties. But AppleCare+ is your best bet for getting fast and effective service directly through Apple.