Apple Launches Self-Service Repair Program in Canada — But Is It Worth It?
Apple users in Canada can now repair their own iPhones, iPads, and Macs with official parts, tools, and manuals—but it might not save you much money.
Starting this week, Apple’s Self-Service Repair Program is now available in Canada, making it the 34th country to gain access to the initiative. The program allows Apple customers to order official parts, rent or buy repair tools, and access repair manuals and diagnostic software to fix their own devices.
Whether it’s a cracked screen, a dead battery, or a malfunctioning camera, Canadians can now attempt their own repairs using the same resources available to Apple technicians.
What Is Apple’s Self-Service Repair Program?
The Self-Service Repair Program gives individuals access to:
-
Free repair manuals and diagnostic tools
-
The ability to purchase Apple-certified parts
-
The option to rent or buy tools, such as torque drivers, adhesive cutters, and screw bits
Brian Naumann, Apple’s VP of AppleCare service and repair, said the program is part of Apple’s effort to extend device life, reduce electronic waste, and empower both consumers and independent repair technicians with secure, high-quality options.
Repairing It Yourself: Is It Cheaper?
While the program promotes independence and sustainability, it's not necessarily a money-saver. In many cases, DIY repairs cost just as much—or more—than having Apple do it for you.
Example: iPhone 16 Battery Replacement
-
DIY Cost: $135 CAD + tax for battery and screw kit
-
Apple Store Repair: Around $99 CAD
-
Recycling Credit: Get $64.80 back if you return the old battery
-
Final DIY Cost After Credit: $70.20
-
Example: iPhone 16 Camera Replacement
-
DIY Kit: $219 CAD
-
In-Store Repair: Estimated $169 CAD
-
Recycling Credit: $52.56
-
Final DIY Cost After Credit: $166.44
-
So while credits help lower the cost, the savings are often minimal—and you’re doing the labor yourself.
Right-to-Repair Advocates: A Step Forward, But Not Enough
Alissa Centivany, Executive Director of the Canadian Repair Coalition, says the program is a step in the right direction but doesn’t solve the bigger problem.
“You’re basically paying the same as you would to have someone else do it,” she explained. “It’s not a huge cost savings.”
Anthony Rosborough, a law professor at Dalhousie University and co-founder of the coalition, agrees. He says that for many customers, DIY repairs feel barely worth the effort, especially when replacement parts are expensive or difficult to install.
The Bigger Issue: Device Design
Right-to-repair supporters argue that Apple’s product design still makes repairs difficult—even with this new program. For example:
-
The M4 MacBook Air, released in March 2025, still has glued-in batteries, making replacements extremely difficult.
-
Digitizer replacements for iPads can cost nearly as much as buying a new device.
“As promising as the program may be, it doesn’t change the fact that fragile and difficult-to-repair devices are still being sold,” said Rosborough.
Advocates Call for Government Regulation
Both Centivany and Rosborough believe that the real solution lies in legislation, not just corporate initiatives.
“Companies should be required by law to make repairs easier,” said Rosborough. “We can’t rely solely on tech giants to set the rules.”
They’re calling on the government to introduce clear right-to-repair laws that hold manufacturers accountable for creating more repairable products.
Apple Opens Up Parts for Independent Repair Shops
In addition to the self-service repair program, Apple also announced that independent repair providers in Canada—those without a direct Apple partnership—can now purchase genuine Apple parts through authorized wholesalers.
This includes parts like:
-
iPhone and iPad displays
-
Batteries
-
Charging ports
Parts are now available via MobileSentrix, a Toronto-area retailer based in Concord, Ontario.
Final Thoughts: Good for Empowerment, But Not Your Wallet
Apple’s Self-Service Repair Program in Canada is a positive move for tech-savvy users, environmental advocates, and the right-to-repair movement. But when it comes to cost savings, the DIY route isn’t always the better deal.
Unless you're committed to learning the repair process, own the right tools, or want more control over your device, many Canadians may still prefer letting Apple handle it—especially when the price difference is slim.