Let’s be straight about this – When Your iPhone 11 Screen Goes Cracked? It isn’t exactly pocket change. In the UK, you’re looking at costs that range from about £79 for a basic aftermarket replacement to £196 if you go through Apple directly. That’s quite a spread, isn’t it?
The interesting bit is that Apple charges £196.44 for iPhone 11 screen replacements without AppleCare+, but only £25 if you’ve got that coverage. Makes you wonder why more people don’t sign up for it beforehand.
But here’s where it gets a bit more complex. Third-party repair shops across the UK typically charge between £79-£150 for iPhone 11 screen repairs, depending on the quality of parts they use and their location. Some mobile repair specialists even offer same-day service, which is pretty handy when you can’t bear to be without your phone.
The Good, The Better, and The New Phone?
The official Apple path is straightforward—you know exactly what you’re getting. Apple uses genuine parts, maintains your warranty, and their technicians are experts on iPhones. You can book an appointment at an Apple Store or use their mail-in service.
The downside? It’s expensive, and you might be without your phone for up to 9 days if you mail it in. Plus, if they find other issues (and they often do), you could be looking at additional charges.
Third-Party Repair Shops: The Sweet Spot
This is where most people end up, and for good reason. UK repair shops like iSmash, Phone Clinic, Timpson, and dozens of local specialists offer competitive pricing and often same-day service. Many use high-quality aftermarket parts that are virtually indistinguishable from Apple’s original components.
The key is finding a reputable shop. Look for ones that offer warranties (most good ones provide 6-12 months), use quality parts, and have solid reviews. Some even come to your location, which is brilliant if you’re stuck at work or can’t easily get to a shop.
DIY: For the Brave (or Foolish?)
Fancy having a go yourself? It’s absolutely doable, but you’ll need patience and the right tools. You’re looking at about £20-30 for a replacement screen plus another £15-20 for tools if you don’t already have them89.
The basic process involves removing two pentalobe screws, carefully separating the screen from the frame, disconnecting several cables, and then reversing the process with your new screen. Simple in theory, but there are plenty of ways to make expensive mistakes.
The Tools of the Trade: What You Actually Need
If you’re going the DIY route, here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools:
- Pentalobe P2 screwdriver (for those tiny screws near the charging port)
- Tri-wing screwdriver (for internal screws)
- Plastic opening picks and spudgers
- Suction cup or screen removal tool
- Heat gun or hair dryer (to soften adhesive)
- Tweezers for handling small components
Pro tip: Many screen replacement kits come with basic tools included, but they’re often quite flimsy. Investing in quality tools makes the job much easier and safer for your phone.
The Hidden Gotchas: What They Don’t Always Tell You
Face ID Complications
Here’s something that catches people off guard – improperly installed screens can affect Face ID functionality. The Face ID sensors are paired to your phone’s logic board, and if they’re damaged during repair or not properly transferred to the new screen, you might lose Face ID permanently.
Professional repair shops know to transfer these components carefully, but DIY repairers sometimes overlook this crucial step. It’s not just about the screen – it’s about preserving all the integrated functionality.
True Tone and Other Features
After any screen replacement that doesn’t use genuine Apple parts, you’ll likely lose True Tone functionality (the feature that adjusts screen colour temperature based on ambient light). Some repair shops have programmers that can restore this feature, but it’s not always available.
Quality Differences You’ll Actually Notice
Not all replacement screens are created equal. Here’s what you might notice with different quality levels:
Genuine Apple/OEM Refurbished: Identical to original – same brightness, colour accuracy, and touch sensitivity
High-Quality Aftermarket: Very close to original, but might be slightly less bright or have minor colour differences
Budget Aftermarket: Noticeably different – thicker bezels, less responsive touch, and colours that just don’t look quite right
The Process: What Actually Happens During Repair
Whether you’re doing it yourself or watching a professional, here’s what the repair process looks like:
- Power down completely – this is crucial for safety
- Remove the two pentalobe screws at the bottom of the phone
- Carefully separate the screen using heat and plastic tools to soften the adhesive
- Disconnect the battery first (always disconnect power before working on electronics)
- Remove the screen connector shield and disconnect the display cables
- Transfer components from the old screen to the new one (camera, sensors, etc.)
- Test everything before final assembly
- Reassemble in reverse order
The whole process takes about 30-45 minutes for a professional, or 1-2 hours for a careful DIY attempt920.
Making the Call: Repair or Replace?
Sometimes the maths just doesn’t add up. If your iPhone 11 is showing its age in other ways – battery life is poor, it’s running slowly, or you’re dealing with multiple issues – it might be time to consider an upgrade.
The iPhone 11 launched in 2019, so depending on when you bought yours, it’s likely 4-5 years old. While it’s still a capable phone, repair costs approaching £200 might be better invested in a newer model.
Warning Signs: When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re experiencing any of these issues along with screen damage, definitely consider professional repair:
- Touch completely unresponsive in areas
- Display showing strange colours or lines
- Phone getting unusually hot
- Battery draining rapidly after the crack appeared
- Face ID stopped working suddenly
These could indicate deeper damage that needs professional diagnosis.
The Apple Replacement Programme: A Potential Lifeline
Here’s something interesting – Apple ran a display module replacement programme for iPhone 11 units manufactured between November 2019 and May 2020 due to touch responsiveness issues. While this programme has likely expired for most devices, it’s worth checking if your phone’s serial number is eligible, especially if you’re experiencing touch issues rather than just physical damage.
Regional Variations: What UK Repair Looks Like
The UK repair market is quite competitive, which works in your favour. Major cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham have numerous options, while smaller towns might have fewer choices but often more personalised service.
Many UK repair shops offer mobile services – they’ll come to your office or home, which is particularly useful if you’re in a city centre where parking is a nightmare. Prices tend to be slightly higher in London but more competitive elsewhere.
Final Thoughts
Getting your iPhone 11 screen repaired doesn’t have to be a drama. Whether you choose Apple’s premium service, a reputable third-party shop, or brave it yourself, the key is understanding what you’re getting into.
For most people, a good third-party repair offers the best balance of cost, quality, and convenience. You’ll save money compared to Apple, get your phone back quickly, and if you choose wisely, end up with a screen that works just as well as the original.
The iPhone 11 is still a solid phone worth repairing, especially if everything else is working well. Just remember – a cracked screen might be annoying, but it’s not an emergency. Take your time to research options, read reviews, and make an informed choice.
After all, you’ll hopefully be looking at that screen for another few years – it’s worth getting it right.
How much does iPhone 11 screen repair cost in the UK?
The cost varies significantly depending on where you go:
- DIY repair: £20-30 for the screen plus £15-20 for tools
- Apple official repair: £196.44 (without AppleCare+) or £25 (with AppleCare+)
- Third-party repair shops: £79-£150 typically
How long does iPhone 11 screen repair take?
Most professional repair shops can complete the job in 30-45 minutes. Some offer same-day service, whilst Apple repairs can take up to 9 days if you mail it in.
Can I still repair my iPhone 11 even though it’s an older model?
Yes, absolutely! The iPhone 11 is still very repairable and worth fixing. Parts are readily available, and many repair shops specialise in iPhone 11 repairs.