iPad broken? Avoid these four common mistakes
Cracked screen. Broken home button. Or an iPad that simply won't turn on. You know the feeling - your tablet breaks and you're faced with a choice: repair or replace. Most people quickly Google a repair shop nearby, bring their iPad in, and hope for the best. But this is where things often go wrong.
Not because repair shops are inherently unreliable, but because as a consumer, you have no idea what to look for. A screen repair for €50 sounds great, until you realize they didn't use genuine parts. Or that your refurbished iPad suddenly has touchscreen problems after repair.
The solution isn't to find the cheapest option, but to ask the right questions beforehand . The right protective accessories can prevent a lot of trouble, but sometimes repairs are unavoidable. These four tips can make the difference between an expensive disappointment and an iPad that will last for years to come.
Useful links
- iPad refurbished collection - Consider a refurbished model as a replacement
- Protective Accessories - Prevent future damage with the right protection
Why the right repairer makes all the difference
A cracked screen or broken home button doesn't automatically mean the end of your iPad. The choice between repairing or replacing it depends largely on the quality of the repair service you choose. The problem is that many people rush to the first option without asking the right questions.
A screen repair for €50 sounds appealing, but what do you actually get for that price? Cheap repairs often don't use original parts. This can lead to touchscreen problems, color variations in the display, or even compatibility issues with future iOS updates. The real cost only becomes apparent later, when your tablet breaks again or stops functioning properly.
Four essential tips for choosing a repair service
1. Always ask about the origin of parts
Genuine Apple parts are more expensive, but they guarantee the best quality and compatibility. A reputable repairer will be transparent about this. Ask specifically whether they use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or aftermarket alternatives. With aftermarket parts, you run the risk of reduced touch sensitivity, poorer battery life, or screen brightness issues.
Be especially careful with screen repairs. An original Retina display has specific properties that cheap copies can't match. Think of the anti-reflective coating, color reproduction, and touchscreen responsiveness.
2. Check the warranty conditions thoroughly
A professional repair service offers a minimum 6-month warranty on repairs. But pay attention to the fine print. Does the warranty cover only the repaired part or any consequential damage as well? What happens if your tablet develops other problems shortly after repair?
Also ask about the warranty claim procedure. Do you need to send the device in or can you visit us? Will you receive a replacement device during the warranty repair? These practical matters will make a big difference in your experience.
3. Read reviews, but interpret them correctly
Online reviews tell you a lot, but not everything. Look beyond the star rating. Look for reviews that specifically address your type of repair. A company might be excellent at battery replacements but less experienced with water damage.
Pay attention to patterns in negative reviews. Do the same complaints recur? How does the company respond to criticism? A professional repairer takes complaints seriously and offers concrete solutions. Be wary of fake reviews: overly positive reviews without detailed information are often inauthentic.
4. Compare more than just price
The cheapest option is rarely the best choice. Get several quotes and compare what you'll actually get. Some repair shops charge extra for diagnostics, while others include it in the repair price. Are there additional costs for emergency repairs? Is data backup offered, and if so, at what price?
A fair price for a screen repair on a recent iPad model is between €150 and €300, depending on the exact model. For older models, this may be lower, but in that case, consider whether repair is still cost-effective.
When repair is no longer worthwhile
Sometimes replacing is wiser than repairing. Parts are often scarce and expensive for tablets older than four years. If the repair costs exceed 60% of the original price, consider a refurbished model . These refurbished devices often offer better performance for a comparable price to an expensive repair.
Even with multiple defects at once, the bill quickly mounts. A cracked screen combined with a faulty charging port and worn-out battery? Then you'll quickly end up paying as much as for a newer, refurbished model with a warranty.
Prevention remains the best strategy
Invest in good protection once your tablet has been repaired. A sturdy case and screen protector cost a fraction of the cost of a repair but can prevent a lot of problems. Choose quality accessories specifically designed for your model.
Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity. A lot of damage occurs from leaving the device in the car during freezing or hot weather. Using it in the bathroom is also risky due to the high humidity.
Asking the right questions makes the difference
A good repairman will take the time to understand your situation. They'll ask about your tablet usage, offer honest advice on the feasibility of repairs, and provide realistic expectations for the outcome. Be wary of companies that offer to fix anything for a fixed low price without even seeing the device.
By being critical and asking the right questions, you can avoid disappointment. A professional repair by a reliable company will give your iPad a new lease on life. With proper care and protection, the device will last for years to come, making the investment in a quality repair more than worth it.
Making the right choice when repairing an iPad
A broken iPad doesn't have to be the end of the world, but making the right choice requires more than a quick Google search. By asking critical questions about parts, warranty, and procedures, you'll separate the professionals from the cowboys.
Sometimes a refurbished iPad is a smarter choice than an expensive repair, especially with older models. And don't forget: with the right protection, you can prevent a lot of trouble. The difference between a successful repair and a waste of money lies in the questions you dare to ask beforehand.
