iPad Air 13” (2025) – “Liquid detected” but no water exposure, won’t charge

I’m looking for advice about an issue with my iPad Air 13-inch (2025).

About two weeks ago, my iPad which i purchased 6 months ago, stopped charging properly. It sometimes shows the charging symbol, but it fades and doesn’t actually charge. I also started getting a “liquid detected in USB-C port” warning.

The problem is — I am 100% sure the device has never had any direct contact with water. The iPad has not been dropped in liquid, spilled on, or used in rain. Not even charged with any other charger except its own from the box. The only thing I can think of is possible humidity or moisture exposure from the environment.

I took it to an Apple-authorized service provider, and they inspected the port and said there is corrosion inside, so they classified it as liquid damage and refused warranty service. They offered a paid replacement for €595.

It feels unfair and it’s frustrating that this is treated the same as actual water damage as it can be due to the climate a case that i can’t do anything about.

I’ve already contacted Apple Support and am waiting for a response

    Has anyone successfully appealed or escalated a case like this with Apple Support?

Are there any official steps I can take to challenge the warranty decision?