User profile for user: Slipshock
Slipshock Author
User level: Level 1
4 points

iPad Air with cracked screen: Trade-in or repair options?

Hello everyone,

My iPad Air (4th generation) recently slipped from my hands, and one corner hit the floor. The screen glass is cracked, but the touch functionality is still working perfectly.

Please note that I do not have AppleCare coverage for this device.

I am considering replacing this iPad with a new one by paying an additional amount. I would appreciate your advice on the following:

  1. What would be the approximate resale or trade-in value of my iPad in its current condition?
  2. How much discount or exchange value can I expect if I upgrade to a new iPad?
  3. Would it be better to repair the screen first and then trade it in?

Thank you in advance for your suggestions.

iPad Air, iPadOS 18

Posted on Feb 12, 2026 5:03 AM

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User profile for user: LotusPilot
LotusPilot
User level: Level 10
303,272 points

Posted on Feb 12, 2026 6:55 AM

Other than for very minor cosmetic damage, a damaged iPad must be repaired before it will eligible for trade-in with Apple. In almost all circumstances, repair costs exceed the cost of repair - and as such, repairing so as to be eligible for trade-in is unlikely to be an economic option.


For practical purposes, in lieu of repairing and returning your own iPad, Apple usually exchange a qualifying iPad for a renewed/refurbished iPad of the same model and specification. The cost of the exchange is the same as would otherwise be charged for repair. Unless you have benefit of an active AppleCare plan, an out-of-warranty repair while expensive will be somewhat less than the cost of a new replacement iPad.


As for out-of-warranty repair costs, Apple offers a fixed-price price repair. You can verify eligibility and cost for your region/country here:

iPad Repair & Service - Apple Support


If you have an active AppleCare+ plan, the cost of repair is reduced to a small excess/deductible fee.


Your iPad screen is the single most expensive component of your iPad. Given this component will be expensive to repair, you might be best advised to scrap the iPad in favour of replacement with a new or reconditioned model from Apple - this potentially being a more cost effective proposition.

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply
User profile for user: LotusPilot
LotusPilot
User level: Level 10
303,272 points

Feb 12, 2026 6:55 AM in response to Slipshock

Other than for very minor cosmetic damage, a damaged iPad must be repaired before it will eligible for trade-in with Apple. In almost all circumstances, repair costs exceed the cost of repair - and as such, repairing so as to be eligible for trade-in is unlikely to be an economic option.


For practical purposes, in lieu of repairing and returning your own iPad, Apple usually exchange a qualifying iPad for a renewed/refurbished iPad of the same model and specification. The cost of the exchange is the same as would otherwise be charged for repair. Unless you have benefit of an active AppleCare plan, an out-of-warranty repair while expensive will be somewhat less than the cost of a new replacement iPad.


As for out-of-warranty repair costs, Apple offers a fixed-price price repair. You can verify eligibility and cost for your region/country here:

iPad Repair & Service - Apple Support


If you have an active AppleCare+ plan, the cost of repair is reduced to a small excess/deductible fee.


Your iPad screen is the single most expensive component of your iPad. Given this component will be expensive to repair, you might be best advised to scrap the iPad in favour of replacement with a new or reconditioned model from Apple - this potentially being a more cost effective proposition.

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iPad Air with cracked screen: Trade-in or repair options?

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