Low on battery power in your Apple Watch? The capacity of Lithium-ion batteries will degrade over time, resulting in quicker drain, slower charging, and decreased performance. Check Battery Health on your watch; if Maximum Capacity is below 80% (or there is a service message), it's time for a battery replacement.
Under AppleCare+, Apple will replace eligible batteries at no charge; out-of-warranty service usually costs $79–$99. With the proper tools and gentle technique, you can do it yourself, but it takes much time, is risky, and can void warranty or compromise water resistance.
For most people, the official service provides more secure results and proper sealing. DIY is only worth it if you are skilled and well-equipped.
In this blog, we will guide you through restoring your Apple Watch to its optimal working condition, ensuring you get the most out of it with prolonged power life and trouble-free use.
Why Apple Watch Batteries Must Be Replaced?
Apple Watch has a lithium-ion battery. This battery ages with use and time, meaning it holds less charge with every year and month that goes by. Chemical aging reduces battery life and performance daily, causing apps to launch more slowly, the screen to dim more quickly, and sensors to fail due to heavy use. Apple creates software to help with performance as the battery ages, yet there isn't a way to prevent everyday wear.
Regular usage also impacts aging. Hot temperatures, repeated fast draining, and charging the watch at 100% for extended periods can accelerate wear. Apple features Optimized Battery Charging to learn how you charge and minimize time at 100%, which helps extend battery life. Low Power Mode will also extend runtime by disabling or modifying some features when necessary.
There are some indicators when you need to fix your Apple Watch that's not charging. The watch may experience issues such as depleting the battery quicker than before, taking longer to charge, powering down earlier, or becoming hot to the touch when used under normal conditions. Functions such as workouts, GPS, calls, and bright screens consume more energy and can exacerbate a weak battery.
Apple allows you to see "Maximum Capacity" under Settings > Battery > Battery Health on the watch. These measures how much capacity the battery has left compared to when it was new. If capacity is "significantly reduced," Apple will show a notable battery message on the watch.
Can You Replace an Apple Watch Battery?
Apple's advice is straightforward. All rechargeable batteries are consumables; they will drain capacity over time. Apple will replace the battery free of charge under AppleCare+ if it contains less than 80% of its original capacity after testing.
The 80% level is a typical threshold to consider replacing because below this, most users experience a day-to-day impact. Apple further states that batteries are designed to retain up to 80% of their original capacity after some charge cycles, indicating that some loss is within everyday use.
Whenever these signs are observed, replacement of the battery can renew everyday use for a day, minimize surprise shutdowns, and restore regular operation. Monitoring battery health, utilizing Optimized Battery Charging, and turning on Low Power Mode as necessary can slow down future aging after repair.
How to Fix the Apple Watch Battery?
Before you begin, back up your Apple Watch and get everything ready. Get to work on a clean, well-lit surface and don't rush. Each step is tiny, but accuracy counts. If anything feels forced, stop and recheck. Ready? Let's go through the process from shutdown to last seal.
- Power Off: Press and hold the side button and swipe to power off.
- Take Off The Bands: Press the band release buttons and pull out the straps.
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Heat The Edge Of The Screen: Heat the adhesive with a heat tool.
- Lift the Screen: Gently pry the display open using a suction cup and an opening pick. Take care not to damage the cables.
- Remove the Flex Cables: Carefully pry the watch open and disconnect the display and battery connectors.
- Disconnect The Old Battery: Gently pry it out with a spudger or tweezers. Do not pierce the cell.
- Install the New Battery: Ensure it is seated properly, then replace the battery and screen cables.
- Seal The Display Again: Use new glue, press it in place to stick, and dry.
- Power On And Check: Check charging, touch, Force Touch (if present), and standard battery behavior.
Required Tools and Materials
The correct tools make an Apple Watch screen and battery fix job simpler and more secure. Remove all your tools before removing the watch, and ensure the new battery matches your model. A clean working environment prevents errors and minimizes the loss of small components. Now that everything is ready, you can go in steps with confidence.
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Precision screwdriver set (typically Y000 and mini Phillips).
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Heat source (iOpener or low-heat gun)
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Suction cup and narrow-opening instruments
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Plastic spudger and ESD-safe tweezers
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Model-specific replacement battery
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Pre-cut display adhesive or top-quality double-sided adhesive
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Isopropyl alcohol (90%+) and lint-free wipes
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Safety glasses and a clean, well-lit work area
Apple Watch Battery Replacement Cost
In the United States, an Apple battery replacement typically ranges from $79 to $99. The majority of newer watches are now priced at $99 due to price increases in 2023 for Series 4 and newer models. If you have AppleCare+ and a test determines battery capacity to be less than 80%, Apple will replace the battery at no cost.
Apple's official stance is that batteries are consumables and usual wear is not covered under standard warranty; out-of-warranty repair can be obtained for a fee. Community reports and Apple's service channels report Series 7 and other comparable models generally quote in the range of $99 without AppleCare+.
Third-party and authorized repair centers are less expensive than Apple. They will typically cost between $50 and $90 based on the quality of the parts, model, and warranty provided. Apple Authorized Service Providers will price-match Apple in some areas, but estimates will vary based on model and type of repair.
DIY components are cheaper to start with, with replacement batteries typically priced at $15–$30, but overall cost mounts when you factor in adhesives, tools, and cleaners, typically an extra $10–$40. In reality, the cost to replace an Apple Watch battery can escalate if you need to pay to fix a shattered display, a torn cable, or water damage, which could result in extra repair charges or a complete device replacement quote.
Apple provides 90 days or the remaining AppleCare term, whichever is greater, of repair service, more valuable than lower-cost alternatives without such coverage. Apple also states that batteries are designed to maintain up to 80% capacity after a certain number of cycles, which is used to establish expectations and the 80% level of service with AppleCare+.
Turnaround via Apple is typically a couple of business days if sent via mail, and local authorized dealers are the same or next day, depending on availability and schedule, which would be something to consider in overall cost and convenience factors.
DIY Apple Watch Battery Replacement
It is cheaper to do it yourself, but it requires patient labor and specialty tools to avoid damaging it. The screen is attached and needs to be heated up and slowly removed carefully so as not to crack the glass or damage the thin, fragile flex cables.
The correct set of tools is needed for an open, clean, and reseal—a tri-point/Y000 screwdriver, spudger, tweezers, heat gun, and pre-cut adhesive. First, back up the watch, and then shut it down and mark all screws and brackets so that assembly mistakes can be easily prevented.
Once the cell is replaced, apply new adhesive and clamp or press softly to allow the seal to cure; despite caution, water resistance will not be entirely regained. If the seal then fails, water can penetrate and lead to corrosion or indicate problems, contributing to the real cost in the long term.
Plan on a skilled DIY taking 60–120 minutes; beginners will take longer because they warm up slowly, unplug, and struggle with cables. DIY will invalidate Apple's warranty if unauthorized repairs or parts are performed, so that subsequent Apple work can be refused or charged at full out-of-warranty prices.
Apple's out-of-warranty battery fee of $79–$99 is standard; cutting expenses with DIY is only most attractive if there is no error and the equipment needed is already available. When it comes to battery health below 80% under AppleCare+, free repair by an authorized repair center is generally the wiser choice over DIY, considering the warranty, component quality, and resealing requirement.
For those without AppleCare+, consider the risks of cracked screens and lost water resistance, as well as the time involved, against third-party estimates that may offer same-day repair and limited warranties at a comparable or slightly higher expense than purchasing do-it-yourself parts and tools.
Get Your Apple Watch Working Again—Quick, Economical, Professional Service at P&T Repair Department
Can you replace the Apple Watch battery? Well, replacing the battery of your Apple Watch is a good idea to extend its life and make it operate faster.
Although Apple and certified service providers offer good service, DIY enthusiasts can attempt to perform the service themselves. Still, going to the professionals ensures your watch is safe, functional, and still under warranty.
For a quick Apple Watch repair, rely on the professionals at P&T Repair Department. They are quick, charge competitive prices, and only employ certified professionals, so your device is in good hands. You can book your battery replacement today with their easy online scheduling system and receive a new, fast, and hassle-free watch!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to change the battery?
Typically, Apple Watch battery replacement would be 3 to 5 business days via Apple's authorized service. Third-party services provide a same-day or 2-3 hours turnaround.
2. Can Apple Watch batteries be replaced?
Yes, you can get Apple Watch batteries replaced by Apple service, authorized service providers, or third-party repair shops. You can also replace it yourself, but you need some technical expertise.
3. Does Apple offer a battery replacement?
Yes, Apple will replace batteries on all Apple Watch models. If your battery is below 80% and you have AppleCare+, it might be free. Otherwise, you'll pay.
4. Should the Apple Watch battery be replaced?
It will depend on the age and condition of your watch. For newer models, replacing the battery is worth considering maximizing use. For older models, it may be better to upgrade to a newer watch. Replacing the battery will cost differently, but it is less than purchasing a new watch.
