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We will be closed on December 24, 25 and 26 & January 1 and 2.
We wish you a happy end of the year and a succesful 2026!
The ARC team

About Apple repair, warranty & service

Apple Authorised Service Provider


As an Apple Authorised Service Provicer we are approved and recommended by Apple.

As an Apple Service Provider we have Apple Certified Technicians. When you have troubles with your device, we have the right technical knowledge to help you as fast and efficient as possible. Your device will be repaired as fast and competent as possible, so you can use your machine again quickly.

As mentioned before, our technicians are Apple Certified, so you can entrust your device to us and count on a high quality repair or intervention. All Apple hardware is always repaired in our offices, this way we keep our repair time as low as possible (with exception of certain iPhone defects).

ARC is an Apple Authorized Service Provider. What does that mean?

As an Apple Authorized Service Provider, ARC meets Apple's high service standards at all times, including technician certification and availability of service to customers.

An authorized Apple Service Provider offers repair service for all Apple products, both in and out of warranty. As an authorized service provider, ARC has access to genuine Apple parts, tools, training, service manuals, diagnostic tests, and other information resources needed to perform these repairs professionally. Apple regularly conducts audits and assessments to ensure that these standards are consistently met.

In addition, authorized service providers must use Apple Certified Technicians to perform repairs on Apple products. To obtain this certification, a technician must pass an exam through an accredited online testing center. These certification exams are updated annually based on the various Apple products.

Service flow

How long does a repair take?

iPhone repairs
The average repair time is 3 working days. However, the time frame also depends on the following factors:

  • The moment your device reaches us
  • How long it takes to diagnose the problem
  • The availability of data such as passcodes
  • The delivery time of Apple parts
  • How long it takes for you to approve the quote (for out-of-warranty repairs)
  • Whether or not the 'Find My' function is activated
  • The moment you pick up your device or when it is shipped

Mac repairs
The average time frame is 2 to 5 working days. It is important to know that the exact repair time depends on a number of factors:

  • The moment your device reaches us
  • How long it takes to diagnose the problem
  • The availability of data such as passwords
  • The delivery time of Apple parts
  • How long it takes for you to approve the quote (for out-of-warranty repairs)
  • Whether or not the 'Find My' function is activated
  • Whether or not you want us to try to make a backup of a possibly defective hard drive or SSD
  • The moment you pick up your device or when it is shipped

iPad repairs
The average repair time is 3 working days. It does not matter whether it is still under warranty or not. The following factors influence the repair time:

  • The moment your device reaches us
  • How long it takes to diagnose the problem
  • The availability of data such as passcodes
  • The delivery time of Apple parts
  • How long it takes for you to approve the quote (for out-of-warranty repairs)
  • Whether or not the 'Find My' function is activated
  • If there is an inscription on the back, it takes about 15 working days before the iPad can be repaired, unless you do not want the inscription to be applied to the replacement device
  • The moment you pick up your device or when it is shipped

AirPods, AirPods Pro and Max
The average repair time for AirPods is 3 working days.

AppleTV, accessories, keyboards, mice and Apple power adapters
The average exchange time is 3 working days.

How does the repair process at ARC work?

When you bring in your Apple device for repair, we first listen carefully to gather as much information as possible. Then a file is created. The problem is described on it, along with the type of device, any visible damage, and your contact details. The device then goes to our certified technicians, who get to work on it according to the 'First in, first out' principle.

To make the repair process as smooth as possible, we have a few tips you can use before handing in your Apple device:

  • Make a backup of your data.
  • Make sure you know your Apple Account and password.
  • Make sure you know the user password (if it's a Mac) or passcode (in case of an iPhone or iPad).
  • Disable the 'Find My' function; if it's active, no repair can be performed.
  • Remove the SIM card from the device (if it's an iPhone).

For most repairs, we need your user password or passcode; we only use this in the context of the repair and do not keep this information.

Repair under warranty
If your device is still under warranty, the necessary repairs will be carried out. We will notify you as soon as your device is ready.

Repair out of warranty
When your device is no longer under warranty, we will first prepare a detailed estimate. The estimate itself will mention the costs of the parts and labor necessary for the repair. The repair will only be carried out after you have indicated that you agree with the estimate. If you decide not to have the repair carried out, we will charge an analysis fee.

Does ARC offer priority repairs?

You can choose a priority repair at ARC. With this service, your device will be handled with priority, both in diagnosing the issue and in performing the actual repair. An additional fee will be charged for this service.

What does this priority service guarantee?

  • Your device will not be placed in the queue but will go directly to the first available technician.
  • The technician will start diagnosing the issue immediately.
  • If necessary, the part will be replaced on a priority basis when available (from stock or after ordering it).

What does this priority service not guarantee?

  • A faster repair, although this is often the case, we have no influence on Apple's operations, so we cannot provide a time estimate regarding actions that depend on Apple. Therefore, we cannot give a guarantee.
  • A free repair.
  • A cheaper repair.

Can I wait for a repair?

That is possible, although it depends on the situation. Please contact us for this so that we can inform you whether it is possible or not. In any case, you must first register your device via our Apple repair request page.

Can I track the progress of the repair of my device?

Yes, you can. You can check the status of your repair on our status page.

Returning after repair?

We offer the possibility for returning your device. In case you want to use this service, it is important to pack in the device in solid, shockproof boxes. We prefer the original packaging. When we notice, upon receiving the registered device, that the packaging is not good enough, we will send you a quote of a box which is better suited for transporting your device. This box costs €40 (VAT excluded). ARC is not responsible for possible damage on the device which is cause while transporting it to us.

What happens with the replaced parts?

Normally, official defect parts will be send back to Apple. It does not matter whether or not the repair is covered by Apple warranty or not, and whether or not there is damage.

Also, it is important to keep in mind that Apple distinguishes two price models concerting the parts which need to be replaced: the exchange price and stock price.

The exchange price is the standard price, used when the defective part will be send back to Apple.
The stock price (more expensive) is used when the defective part won't be send back to Apple.

In our quote prices for the repairs out of warranty, we always base ourselves on the exchange prices..

My insurance company is requesting a quote for the repair of my device, can I go to ARC for this?

For a quote, you can contact us. Our Apple Certified technicians will then prepare a quote for you so that you can forward it to your insurance company. Please note that there may be an analysis fee associated with the diagnosis. If the repair is carried out, this cost will be deducted.

I called Apple and they are referring me to ARC with a case number. What now?

ARC is happy to assist you. An Apple case number is only proof of contact and in no way indicates Apple's responsibility. This case is confidential and not visible to us.
ARC will follow the standard procedure and will carry out the repair if necessary. Do not hesitate to provide us with as much information as possible when handing in your device. If there is any doubt, ARC will contact Apple to obtain more information.

Why is the repair of my device sometimes cheaper elsewhere?

ARC is an Apple Certified Service Provider, which means that we work closely with Apple and use the official tools and imposed rules provided by Apple.
To always be able to guarantee the quality of your device after repair, we often replace entire components instead of repairing them at the component level. Independent non-official repairers, who work independently of Apple, sometimes do offer repairs at the component level, allowing them to get the device working again for a lower cost. Since the quality and reliability of your Apple device can no longer be guaranteed afterwards, Apple and ARC do not recommend this. When a device is repaired by a non-authorized repairer, it can void the warranty and it is possible that further repairs by Apple and ARC will be refused.

I bought my Apple device abroad. Can I go to ARC for a repair?

By default, Apple offers worldwide service on all devices, but there are some limitations.

  • If the type of device or model was not / is not sold in Belgium, service may not be offered.
  • When repairing, Apple may provide a replacement part / device that differs from the model purchased.
  • Apple offers 1 year worldwide warranty, other warranty conditions can only be requested in the country where you purchased the device.

I bought a second-hand device that is still linked to the previous owner, can ARC unlock this?

ARC cannot disable this. The activation lock of a device is managed by Apple.
You can contact Apple Support at 0800 80 407 for this. You will need the original proof of purchase. On Apple's website you can find more information regarding the activation lock for iPhone and iPad

How can I pay at ARC?

You can pay with Bancontact and cash.

Warranty

How much warranty do I have on Apple products?

Private users
Internationally, Apple products come with a limited one-year warranty. Thanks to the 'European Consumer Protection Act', the warranty period within the European Union has been extended to two years (only applicable to private individuals making purchases without a VAT number).

Professional users
Professional users are users such as businesses, associations, government institutions and educational institutions. A warranty period of 1 year applies to professional purchases.

By purchasing AppleCare, the warranty period of a Mac (and associated support) can also be extended to three years for professional users (up to two years for iPad).

When does the warranty expire?

  • Your Apple product is more than two years old — for private users.
  • Your Apple product is more than one year old — for professional users.
  • Your Apple product has a problem that is not covered by the warranty or consumer legislation, such as accidental damage or damage caused by unauthorized modifications.

Warranty on batteries
For batteries and other consumables, a diagnostic test will first be performed to check whether the problem is due to normal wear and tear, or due to a defect or manufacturing fault. Normal wear and tear is not covered by the warranty.

Warranty on repairs
All repairs carried out by ARC are covered by a parts warranty of 90 days or by the remainder of the device's existing warranty, whichever is longer.

AppleCare warranty

The AppleCare Protection Plan for Mac entitles you to up to three years of expert support and additional options for Apple to repair your hardware.
When you have the AppleCare Protection Plan, just pick up the phone to get answers to questions about your Mac, macOS and Apple apps like Photos, iMovie, GarageBand, Pages, Numbers and Keynote. You can even have your Apple product repaired on site if you are abroad.
As stipulated in the Belgian Civil Code, the benefits of the AppleCare Protection Plan are in addition to the consumer's right to free repair or replacement by the selling party of goods that do not comply with the purchase contract for up to two years after delivery.
Read more about AppleCare (NL version) or AppleCare (FR version).

Additional Warranty Terms

The warranty on Apple products is only valid for hardware defects.
Consequently, these are not covered by warranty: software problems of any kind, the loss of data, damage as a result of improper use, drop damage, moisture damage and cosmetic damage.
For batteries and other consumable goods there will be a diagnostic test performed first. This in order to determine whether or not the problem is the result of normal wear and tear, or any abnormal defect.
At a repair, you will receive three months of warranty on the replaced part.

There is damage to my iPhone (a scratch, a dent, a cracked screen or back, water damage, ...). What now?

In case of external damage, the warranty on the device expires. It is not necessary for there to be a causal link between the external damage and the problems experienced with the device. The fact that there is visible damage is often reason enough for Apple to refuse the warranty claim anyway.

Liquid damage
Almost all Apple devices contain indicators that show whether they have come into contact with a liquid. In that case too, Apple's warranty claim will be refused.

Cosmetic damage
Cosmetic damage (external signs of wear that do not arise from normal use) are not covered by the warranty. On the other hand, cosmetic damage is not a reason to refuse a warranty claim, if this claim relates to other problems.

Glass breakage
The cost of this depends on the iPhone model and any other damage. Damage caused by an accident or misuse is never covered by warranty.

Accidental / external damage
In most cases, this can be repaired out of warranty. If your device shows another defect besides this external damage, it must first be investigated whether this defect was not caused by the external damage.

When a repair, separate from the existing damage, is hindered by damage to the device, the damage problem may first have to be solved before continuing with the repair. A possible scenario (replacing iPhone battery): the battery of your iPhone needs to be replaced but the screen is broken. The broken screen prevents the battery from being replaced as we cannot open the iPhone without further damaging the screen, nor can we guarantee the proper functioning of the screen. We will therefore also repair the iPhone screen (after acceptance of estimate) in order to be able to replace the battery.

Where can I check if my device is eligible for an Apple quality program?

Check the Apple quality program page to see if your device is eligible.

Why do I receive a quote?

You will receive a quote by email if the defect is due to user damage or when the warranty has expired.
There are several options:

  1. You accept the quote, we repair your device and you will be notified as soon as it is available for pickup/shipping.
  2. You do not agree with the quote, in this case you pay the analysis fee.
  3. You do not agree with the quote and do not want your product back. We will recycle your device.

A quote is valid for 15 days.

What is battery wear and why is this not covered by warranty?

Battery wear is a normal and expected process. Every rechargeable battery, including the one in your Mac or iPhone, has a limited lifespan. Over time, the capacity decreases, meaning the battery lasts less long on a full charge. This is not a manufacturing defect but a normal wear process in lithium-ion batteries.

Battery wear?

  • Every battery has a limited number of charge cycles where one cycle equals fully charging and discharging.
  • After approximately 500 (iPhone) or 1000 (Mac) charge cycles, the battery retains 80% of its original capacity.
  • High temperatures, intensive use and constant charging can accelerate the wear process.

Warranty?
Since battery capacity naturally decreases and this is not considered a defect, wear is not covered by warranty.

Extending the lifespan of your battery?

Information regarding the device and parts

Does ARC repair Apple devices purchased elsewhere?

Yes we repair all Apple devices, purchased for example at a telco like Proximus, Orange, Base, ... Or at Apple or an Apple Reseller / Retailer like Fnac, Vanden Borre, Lab9, Selexion, Excellent, ...
ARC is an Apple Authorized Service Provider, consequently ARC takes care of all Apple repairs, regardless of the place of purchase. However, it is always necessary to present your original proof of purchase if you wish to have a repair carried out under warranty, in the second year after purchase.

Can I buy Apple parts at ARC?

No. As an Authorized Service Provider, ARC is not allowed to sell individual Apple parts.

The hard drive in my Mac was replaced. Do I get it back?

When the hard drive in your Mac is replaced within the warranty period, ARC must send it to Apple. If the hard drive in your Mac is replaced outside the warranty period, you can take it with you when you pick up the device.

My Mac has water damage. Can ARC repair this?

When you bring in your device after it has come into contact with liquid, we will need to perform an extensive diagnosis. The device will be completely disassembled to carefully inspect all components. To make the device reliable again, every component that shows signs of moisture will need to be replaced to eliminate the chance of corrosion. ARC is not responsible for further defects that occur during or after the repair due to moisture.

My Mac is defective but has been given the status Vintage or Obsolete by Apple. Is my device too old to be repaired?

Apple will mark a device as vintage 5 years after the last date of sale and consequently stop making parts for this device.
Subsequently, Apple will mark the device as obsolete 7 years after the last date of sale and no replacement parts will be supplied anymore.

However, some parts, such as batteries, hard drives, SSDs or other accessories may still be repairable. Please contact ARC directly to explore all service options. In such a case, ARC can use qualitatively equivalent parts to replace the original ones.

Regardless of the age of your device, software repairs or support are always possible.

Learn more about getting service for your Apple product after warranty expires.

The battery of my MacBook shows 'service recommended'. What can I do?

Do you receive the message 'Service Recommended', 'Replace Soon', 'Replace Now' or 'Service Required'? This means that your battery can hold less charge than when it was new. You can continue to use your Mac, but the battery will drain faster than before. ARC can help you and replace your battery.

I have a beta version of the software on my device, what happens if I need a repair?

The service tools and diagnostic software used during the repair are not compatible with beta versions of iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, HomePodOS or tvOS. In the event of a repair, we are required to install the latest official version of the software and the device will be erased. So be sure to back up your data.

Cleaning my Airpods, how do I do that?

Dirt in your AirPods can lead to reduced audio performance, such as lower volume or less bass. To prevent this, it's best to clean your AirPods regularly.

  • Never hold the AirPods or AirPods Pro under water.
  • Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.
  • Make sure no liquid gets into the openings.
  • Clean the microphone and speaker mesh with a dry cotton swab.
  • Definitely do not use sharp objects or abrasive materials to clean your AirPods or AirPods Pro.

Need more information about the condition of your iPhone battery?

You can always check the condition of your battery, maximum capacity and peak performance.

Go to 'Settings -> Battery -> Battery Health' to check why your iPhone may need to be charged faster or why it is running a bit slower. When the condition of your battery has significantly deteriorated, your iPhone will indicate this. ARC can replace your iPhone battery.

Maximum capacity of your iPhone battery
The battery in your iPhone is designed to retain 80% of its original capacity at 500 complete charge cycles. You go through one charge cycle when you have used 100% of your battery's capacity, regardless of how many times you have recharged your iPhone in between. So it may take a few days for your battery to go through a complete charge cycle.

Peak performance
With a battery that is in good condition, these performances are 'normal' and no power management functions are applied. When these power management functions are applied, your iPhone will report this. These power management functions can affect the performance of your iPhone. You will therefore also get an option to disable them. However, if you disable them, your iPhone may unexpectedly shut down.

Important battery information
When the battery in your iPhone is a non-original Apple part, your iPhone cannot read the above data. If you still want to replace the battery with an original part, we can replace your iPhone battery, do not hesitate to contact ARC.

Can ARC help me with the installation and configuration of my new device?

ARC is happy to help you with the installation and personalization of your new device.
We can transfer the data from your old device, set up your mail accounts, and so on.

How do I find my AirPods using the Find My app?

  1. Open the Find My app.
  2. Select your AirPods under Devices.
  3. Tap 'Play Sound' to play a sound (from AirPods Pro 2nd Gen)

My iPhone only charges up to 80%! Why?

The iPhone has a setting that prevents battery wear by charging up to a maximum of 80%. A battery that is repeatedly charged to 100% will wear out faster. Based on your daily charging routine, the device will only charge up to 100% when it estimates that you will need more than 80% charge. To disable this setting, open the settings on your iPhone and navigate to 'Settings -> Battery'. Here you can disable the 'Optimized Charging' option.

How do I set up my eSIM on my new Apple Watch?

  1. Make sure your Apple Watch is compatible with eSIM functionality.
  2. Contact your mobile provider to purchase an eSIM plan or to check if your current plan supports eSIM.
  3. After purchasing or activating an eSIM with your provider, they will provide you with a QR code. Go to the Watch app on your paired iPhone.
  4. In the Watch app on your iPhone, tap on 'Cellular' and select 'Add Cellular Plan'.
  5. Hold the iPhone with the Watch app open over the QR code you received from your provider. The Watch app will scan the QR code and prompt you to follow any further instructions from your provider.
  6. Follow any further instructions provided by your provider. This may include completing the activation of the eSIM on your Apple Watch.
  7. Once the setup is complete, your Apple Watch should now be able to connect to cellular networks via the eSIM.
  8. The process may vary depending on your mobile provider and the region you are in. Be sure to follow your provider's instructions and complete any additional steps they require to properly activate the eSIM on your Apple Watch.

The battery of my Mac is not charging. Why is that?

When you enable optimized charging, you may see the message 'Charging Paused' under the battery status icon in the menu bar. This extends the overall lifespan of your battery.You can quickly charge the battery further by clicking on 'Charge to Full Now'.

Can I order ear tips for AirPods separately?

If you have lost the ear tips of your AirPods Pro, you can contact us for this. Note that the ear tips are specific to the version of your AirPods Pro! For example, the 1st generation is not compatible with the 2nd generation and vice versa. There are different sizes of ear tips, with size M being the standard. You can check the used size on the tip itself.

What happens to my data when ARC recycles my old Apple device?

ARC respects your privacy and will erase all data from the taken-over device. If desired, ARC can transfer data from your old to your new device. There may be costs associated with this. This on the condition that your old device works and you provide another device. You can also erase your old iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch or Mac yourself, or make a backup that you can restore on the new device.

I found an Apple device, can you help me find the owner?

If you have found an Apple device, it is best to bring it to your local police station. ARC cannot and may not share customer data according to GDPR regulations.

How do I turn off 'Find My'?

For this, please refer to our separate 'How to turn off Find My?' page where you can find the instructions.

My device is defective and I have no backup! Can ARC help me?

A backup ensures that your data is safe, even if your device is lost, stolen or damaged.

An iPhone automatically makes backups in iCloud, provided there is enough space available.
A Mac can be configured to make automatic backups using the built-in Time Machine feature.

If your device is no longer accessible and you do not have a backup, ARC may be able to help you.

  • With an older Mac, we can remove the hard drive/SSD from the device to copy the data.
  • With a newer Mac, the storage is often soldered in place, making data recovery less straightforward.
  • With an iPhone, a backup can only be made when the device starts up. So if there are no signs of power, the data will most likely not be recoverable.

When recovering data, it is always a case-by-case basis to see what is possible. Our advice: bring your device in for more information.