Apple Now Offers Free Repairs for 42mm Apple Watch Series 2 Models with Swollen Batteries

Apple will repair select Apple Watch Series 2 models that do not power on or have a swollen battery free of charge as part of a new service policy, from the latest news of Apple on April 15. Last week, apple updated its maintenance policy to global dealers, that the major change in this update is the adjustment of some Apple Watch’s maintenance policies compared to the old one.

“Apple has determined that under certain conditions, some Apple Watch Series 2 devices may not power on or they may experience an expanded battery,” wrote Apple, in an internal document distributed to Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers on Friday, reports MacRumors.

“Apple will service eligible devices free of charge,” according to the document, numbered SN4534 in Apple’s internal GSX portal. “Apple will authorize coverage for eligible devices for three years after the original date of purchase.”

The policy was issued in at least the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe, so it is likely a worldwide initiative where service providers are available. Specific maintenance releases include: sports, classic, hermes, and Nike+.

Worth noting that this new policy does not apply to the original Apple Watch, Series 1 and Series 3 models, or any 38mm model. So you must repair you Apple Watch only with Series 2 if you need.

Learn more Apple Watch Series 2 maintenance policy in this page.

Many Apple Watch users have complained of expanded, or swollen, batteries across multiple device generations for years. Like most lithium-ion battery packs, the pouches used to power Apple Watch are susceptible to swelling and expanding when punctured, overcharged, overheated or otherwise damaged. While not a widespread issue, battery swelling can cause power interruptions, operational issues or, in some cases, dislodged displays.

The new repair program mirrors a warranty update for first-generation Apple Watch models implemented last year. At the time, Apple extended its standard one-year limited coverage by two years to account for devices suffering from swollen batteries.