Recently, there has been a growing desire among consumers for the ability to repair their own devices. In a positive development, Apple has made notable strides in this regard. Three years back, the company introduced a self-service repair initiative, which empowered users to access necessary tools and manuals to address issues with their Apple products independently. Initially, this program focused on iPhone repairs but has since expanded to include select Macs, the Beats Pill speaker, and the Apple Studio Display. Most recently, Apple announced plans to extend its self-service repair options to various iPad models.

Eligible iPad Models for Self-Repair

As of now, not every iPad qualifies for the self-repair program. Starting May 29, 2025, the following models will become eligible: iPad Air (M2 and newer), iPad Pro (M4), iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad (A16). This aligns with the current list of iPads that Apple accepts for official repairs, whether through mail-in or in-store options. For those with other iPad models, exploring third-party repair services like iFixit could be a viable alternative.

Steps to Repair Your iPad

To embark on your self-repair journey, the first step is to download the relevant repair manual from Apple’s official site. Familiarize yourself with your device and its issues through the manual, and when you feel prepared, order the necessary tools and components.

Fortunately, tools and replacement parts that are Apple-approved can be purchased or rented directly from the company. A comprehensive list of available items can be found at the Self Service Repair Store. Additionally, authorized third-party repair businesses now have access to these tools as well, which can be advantageous if in-person assistance is preferred. It’s important to note that, as of now, specific pricing information for iPad repairs is not yet available on the website, so a glance at the costs associated with repairing an iPhone 16 Pro Max can provide a helpful estimate.

For instance, replacing the display of an iPhone 16 Pro Max costs around $379, while battery repairs come in at $119. In certain instances, returning the replaced component to Apple may yield a credit, which can ease financial pressures. For the display replacement, the offered credit is $19, while for the battery repair, it stands at $57, which is quite beneficial.

Given that iPads are larger devices compared to iPhones, it is reasonable to anticipate higher repair costs for them as well. Keep in mind that when ordering parts, you may be required to provide your iPad’s serial number, making it difficult to maintain a stockpile of components.

Undertaking repairs on iPads (and other Apple products) is an excellent option for those who enjoy working with hardware. Even if not everyone feels comfortable with such tasks, this initiative is still promising, as it enables local repair shops to stock authentic parts, bolstering repair options in the community.