What to Do When You Drop Your iPad in the Toilet
Broken iPad? Learn How to Repair Your Device at Home Without Visiting an Apple Store
Fix Your Broken iPad without an Apple Store Visit
I once knew someone who had a talent for consistently dropping their phone in the toilet. It wasn’t a one-time mishap, but a series of unfortunate events that led to a watery grave for their devices. But let me assure you, dropping an iPad in the toilet is a whole different ball game. Thankfully, I haven’t experienced the dreaded splash of expensive technology hitting the can yet. However, that doesn’t mean I haven’t had my fair share of iPad accidents.
You see, it’s not just the toilet that poses a threat to your precious tablet. I have, on occasion, dropped mine on the unforgiving concrete pavement while juggling a wriggling toddler. We’ve all had those moments, right? Well, maybe not all of us, but accidents happen.
If you find yourself with a broken iPad, fear not! There are several ways you can handle the situation, ranging from getting the tablet screen replaced at a local third-party store to taking matters into your own hands with some DIY magic. And if you’re the forward-thinking type, there are also preventive measures you can take to avoid damaging your beloved device from the start.
According to technology insurer Asurion, a staggering 80% of tablets meet their untimely demise within the first two years of purchase. My iPad, remarkably, managed to make it almost a decade before it finally succumbed. But, let’s be honest, I had stopped using it for about five years, so it had a head start. However, as soon as my kids came into the picture, I rediscovered the wonders of my ancient first-gen iPad Air. It became their entertainment hub during car rides. Little did I know that even an airplane-style seat back attachment couldn’t protect my iPad from the perils of a toddler. The real challenge came when it needed a recharge. My house turned into a real-life game of “the floor is lava,” where the Californian concrete floor was the ultimate destroyer of screens.
Now, if you have kids, there’s a good chance you own a tablet. According to the US Census Bureau, four out of five households with children owned tablets in 2021. As a parent, I can vouch for the fact that houses with little ones are far more prone to tablet accidents. Gravity has no hold on these explorers, and even the most delicately crafted gadgets are no match for their curious hands.
But fear not! If disaster strikes and your iPad takes a turn for the worse, there are a few options you can consider. Let me share my experience and insights.
DIY a Cracked iPad Screen or Battery Replacement
You might be surprised to know that Apple itself has embraced the DIY repair trend. Starting in 2022, they partnered with iFixit to offer repair guides and official replacement parts, empowering users to fix their own iPads. Now, I must confess, I didn’t venture into this territory myself, but if you’re feeling bold, it might be worth a shot.
iFixit provides highly detailed step-by-step instructions for various iPad models, along with difficulty ratings. For example, if you need to replace the screen on your iPad Pro 12.9-inch 4th-gen model, iFixit deems it a moderately difficult task that could take one to two hours to complete. They also offer packages with all the necessary repair parts, tools, and even a reusable “iOpener” to soften the adhesive on the screen.
Should you encounter battery issues, iFixit has got you covered as well. Their guides provide instructions for replacing iPad batteries. However, do keep in mind that the guide for the iPad Pro 12.9-inch model is rated as difficult, with a repair time of two to three hours.
Get Professional Help from Authorized Repair Providers
If DIY repairs aren’t your cup of tea, don’t fret! There’s a wide range of options available for getting your damaged iPad repaired. Apple has thousands of authorized repair providers worldwide, and you can easily find one near you. Additionally, independent repair providers with access to genuine Apple parts also offer their services. Your local mall may even have a repair store specializing in fixing devices with cracked screens. These alternatives often come at more competitive prices than going directly to an Apple Store.
It’s worth noting that costs for repairs vary depending on the level of “officialness” you desire. Having Apple itself handle the repairs tends to be pricier. You can estimate the cost of repair for your specific iPad model and issue using Apple’s cost estimator tool. While “cracked screen” isn’t listed as an option, you can still get an idea of what an “other damage” repair might cost. For instance, the estimated repair cost for the latest iPad is around $319, while a battery replacement would be approximately $119.
Compare AppleCare Plus with Third-Party Insurers
The thought of insurance might cross your mind as you contemplate the potential for future iPad mishaps. After all, accidents happen, and it’s best to be prepared. Luckily, there’s a plethora of insurance options available for your iPad. You can choose a lower-cost option from general insurers like Progressive or Allstate, starting at around $4 per month. On the other end of the spectrum, you have specialized device insurers like Asurion, offering comprehensive coverage for all your tech with higher fees.
Progressive’s iPad insurance covers accidental damage, liquid submersion, power surges, vandalism, and theft with a $50 deductible. Allstate’s plan purchased through Costco has no deductibles but does not cover loss or theft.
On the more extensive end, Asurion provides coverage not just for your iPad but for nearly every technological marvel in your home. Alongside protection against drops, spills, and theft, they offer a data security solution and unlimited photo and video storage.
And then there’s AppleCare Plus, the insurance option straight from the source. For a fee, Apple will repair or replace your iPad, battery, Apple Pencil, iPad keyboard, USB cable, and power adapter in case of accidental damage. While there is a fee for each repair, the coverage is unlimited, allowing you to rest easy. Pricing for AppleCare Plus depends on the iPad model, ranging from $3.50 per month or $69 per year for the iPad and iPad Mini, to $8 per month or $149 per year for the iPad Pro 12.9-inch model.
Even with AppleCare Plus, you can avoid stepping foot in an Apple Store by using the convenience of mail-in service or receiving an express-mailed replacement if your device is beyond salvation.
Invest in a Rugged Case and Screen Protector for Future Protection
If you’re not eligible for AppleCare Plus or prefer to avoid the hassle of insurance, there’s another proactive measure you can take. Consider purchasing a rugged case and a reliable screen protector for your iPad. Trust me, this is a lesson I learned the hard way after shattering my screen. Fortunately, Amazon offers a wide range of iPad cases in every color imaginable, all at affordable prices. Just ensure that the case you choose is compatible with your specific iPad model.
In conclusion, accidents happen, especially with active children or clumsy adults. But fret not, for there are solutions aplenty. Whether you prefer the independence of DIY repairs, the expertise of authorized providers, or the peace of mind offered by insurance, there’s a path that suits your needs. So, brace yourself for the inevitable drops, splashes, and mishaps that might come your way, and play it safe with protective measures.
Leave a comment below and share your own iPad mishap stories! We’re all in this together.
