The price of getting an iPad mini repaired isn't as small as its name might imply. However, certain issues are a lot less expensive to rectify than others. Apple's iPad mini variants have long been favored by many due to their power and portability.
The latest iPad mini iteration packs a lot of oomph in a smaller 7.9-inch display, thanks to Apple's A12 Bionic processor. Despite iPad minis featuring tough aluminum frames, they're still susceptible to drops, spills, extreme temperature, and daily wear and tear. The cost of repairing them depends on not only the issue but the version of the device too.
If an iPad mini no longer functions as it should due to hardware issues, sending it to service can range from reasonably affordable to impractically expensive. According to Apple, sending an original iPad mini or iPad mini 2nd gen for service costs $199, while for the newer 3rd generation iPad mini up to the latest model (the iPad mini 5) it costs $100 more. There is also be an additional $6.95 fee for units that require shipping. This service fee applies to units that are no longer under warranty, have cracked screens, or owners who don't have AppleCare+.
Apple iPad Mini Issue Repair Costs
It's no stretch to say that having a newer iPad mini model repaired by Apple can cost almost as much as buying a full-sized iPad. However, those numbers come down if the issue isn't as severe. If the problem only lies with the device's battery, then its service cost is $99 for an out-of-warranty device, while issues with an accompanying Apple Pencil cost only $29 when out of warranty. In addition, taking a unit to an Apple service center foregoes additional shipping costs.
AppleCare+ insurance shrinks all service prices down to $49, while battery and Apple Pencil issues are taken care of free of charge. AppleCare+ also covers units outside of warranty, as well as those that have issues caused by unauthorized tampering and accidental damage. Owners with units still under warranty won't have to pay for Apple's repair service, but keep in mind that it only covers manufacturing defects, not damage from wear and tear or accidents. Overall, getting the latest iPad mini repaired is by no means a small undertaking, even when compared to its bigger variants. The fact that the iPad mini doesn't come with any discernible IP-rating or have shock-absorbing rubber corners makes getting AppleCare+ — or at least a sturdy protective case — a very good idea.
Source: Apple