Will Apple replace my faulty iPhone 16 PM

Bought my device around 2 weeks ago after my 15 pm was stolen and immediately purchased AppleCare +. It was fine the first week or so but the last week it has been shutting off by itself usually when I’m not using it.


This didn’t really bother me but it has progressively got worse so now it restarts while I am using it. Happens every 5 mins or so.


Apple ran a diagnostics test it passed. The second one failed so the advisor recommended I book in for repair. I’m booked in on Sunday at the store. I was just wondering if they can’t fix it will I get a replacement for free? And will it be brand new iPhone or refurbished?

im so upset I spent almost £1000 on a phone that is currently pretty much unusable. It’s such a basic thing you wouldn’t expect to happen with a brand new iPhone. Honestly this last month I have really questioned my loyalty to Apple.

iPhone 16 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on Apr 7, 2025 10:41 AM

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Apr 7, 2025 1:07 PM in response to Summeroflove25

Hi,


Totally understandable that you’re feeling frustrated — you just spent a lot on a brand-new iPhone 16 Pro Max, and it’s failing at the most basic level. Here’s a clear answer based on Apple’s policy and your situation:




Will Apple replace your iPhone 16 Pro Max?

Yes — almost certainly.

Since:

  • You bought the phone just 2 weeks ago,
  • You already have AppleCare+,
  • The device is showing major issues (random restarts), and
  • The second diagnostic test failed

Apple will very likely offer a replacement if they can’t resolve the issue in-store.

Will it be brand new or refurbished?

That depends on how Apple classifies the replacement:

  • Within 14 days: You’re typically eligible for a brand-new unit (full refund or replacement).
  • You might be just past this window — but since the issue clearly started within that period, explain that in-store.
  • After 14 days (but under AppleCare+): Apple usually gives you a like-new certified replacement, which is refurbished, but:
  • These are often indistinguishable from new, with new batteries, outer shells, and full warranty.
    • If they don’t have a refurbished unit in stock (especially this early after launch), they might give you a new unit anyway.

What You Should Do at Your Appointment:

  • Be calm but firm — explain that the issue began within a week of purchase, and it’s making the phone completely unusable.
  • Mention the diagnostic failure and how often it’s restarting.
  • If you’re just outside the 14-day window, politely push for a new unit based on the early issue and how quickly it worsened.
  • Ask directly: “Will this be a new replacement or a refurbished one?” They’ll tell you honestly.


Final Thoughts:

You’re completely justified in being upset — this kind of issue should not happen on a brand-new flagship phone, and Apple usually recognizes that. The good news is: you’re covered, and you’ll either walk out with a fixed phone or a replacement very soon.




If they offer a repair but you’re uncomfortable with that given how new the device is, you can push for a replacement — and AppleCare+ gives you more leverage to do that.




Let me know how it goes or if you want help wording anything for the Genius Bar team.

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Apr 7, 2025 11:00 AM in response to Summeroflove25

You should have at least 14 days, but if you’re close a manager may modify the return in limited situations. The iPhone you’ll receive, if necessary, is what is called a replacement model. It’s provided in a generic white packaging. Apple Store employees do not have the ability to determine the status of a replacement iPhone. It could be a new device and it also might be an Apple refurbished device. The terms and conditions of the Apple Warranty include the description of iPhones used for warranty replacement.


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Apr 7, 2025 2:49 PM in response to Summeroflove25

No one will be able to make any determination on what the store will offer you, not even an AI generated response. The one policy that seems clear is returning the device within 14 days for a full refund (which does depend on your region). There is no exchange, it is a refund, followed by a purchase. If sent in for repair, the device may get fixed, you may get a refurbished device, or you may get a new device. All that is at Apple's discretion.

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Will Apple replace my faulty iPhone 16 PM

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