Apple denying warranty despite no physical/liquid damage (new iphone 16 plus) in India

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Level 1

4 points

Apple denying warranty despite no physical/liquid damage (new iphone 16 plus) in India

Hi everyone,

I submitted my iPhone 16 Plus to an Apple Authorized Service Provider in India because it was not charging and was stuck in recovery mode . The device is still under Apple Limited Warranty. It is just 4 months old device (brand new).

At intake, the job sheet mentioned only display scratches, a minor dent at the right bottom, and normal user-use marks. It did not mention physical damage, liquid damage, charging port damage, burn marks, unauthorized modification, or any accidental damage causing internal failure. I have never given it to anybody ever for any repairs.

The device was later sent to ARC (central service center) for further screening. I have now been told that ARC found “internal accidental damage” / IC damage, and the repair is not covered under warranty. The quoted paid repair cost is around ₹39,897.

The service center shared microscope photos, but I have not received a clear written explanation of the exact VMI category or how the damage proves accidental damage rather than a hardware failure.

I have been on call with Apple India support - but they are saying just pay the money with no escalation matrix in place.

I dont even know if the damage was caused by service center as there was no physcial and liquid damage. How do i prove this?

Any advice from people who have faced similar Apple warranty denial cases would help. What escalation options are available in India?

[Edited by Moderator]

Posted on Jun 27, 2026 9:12 AM

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Answer 1

SravanKrA

Level 10

445,056 points

Jun 27, 2026 9:14 AM in response to raghav137

This platform is designed as a user-to-user forum with Apple Inc. acting as a moderator. The primary objective is to foster a community where users can participate in meaningful discussions while adhering to established guidelines.

This platform serves as a space for users to engage in meaningful conversations, share information, and exchange ideas related to Apple products. It's a community-driven initiative where users support each other by sharing their experiences and technical expertise in using Apple devices. While Apple Inc. is not actively participating in these discussions, the forum is a valuable resource for seeking guidance and assistance from fellow users who possess a wealth of experience with Apple products. Feel free to explore the discussions, ask questions, and benefit from the collective knowledge of this community.

Please note that this is a public forum, so when attaching a screenshot, please avoid including any personal credentials such as IP addresses, card details, email IDs, Apple IDs, IMEI numbers, serial numbers, phone numbers, order IDs, invoices, or any identifiable location information if you are sharing a map.

Hence, some of the following links which are relevant to your query may help you:

Hardware repairs & tickets - Apple Authorized Service Provider
Service grievances & questions --> Apple Repair and Repair Status Check - Official Apple Support
Warranty & Apple Care+ issues --> Check Your Service and Support Coverage - Apple Support
Shipping & Transportation queries - Shipping & Pickup - Shopping Help - Apple
Repair costs or product or prices of part service & replacement -
Any other issue --> Contact – Official Apple Support (IN) & Contact Apple for support and service

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Answer 2

Bob Timmons

Level 10

194,852 points

Jun 27, 2026 9:29 AM in response to raghav137

This will probably not help, but a logical next step would be to speak to the manager at the Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP).

As users on this site.......just like you......we are unable to help with decisions that have been made by the AASP, nor can we help if you want to take the phone directly to an Apple Store / Genius Bar.

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