Losing one AirPod can be frustrating, but there’s no need to buy a complete new set. Apple has made it simple to replace just a single AirPod rather than purchasing the entire package again. You can replace one AirPod through Apple Support for $69 per earbud ($89 for AirPods Pro), which is much more affordable than buying a brand new pair.
The process is straightforward. Contact Apple through their AirPods Service Page or visit an Apple Store with your remaining AirPod. If you have AppleCare+, you’ll pay a reduced incident fee regardless of which AirPod you need to replace. Even better, this coverage applies whether you need to replace just one AirPod or both, with or without the charging case.
For those who may have lost their receipt, don’t worry. If you still have the serial number from your original purchase, Apple can help match a new AirPod to your existing one. This ensures your replacement will work perfectly with your remaining AirPod and charging case.
Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to replace one of your AirPods (left or right):
🔁 How to Replace One of Your AirPods
Step 1: Identify the AirPod that needs replacing
- Make sure it’s only one AirPod (left or right) that’s lost or damaged.
- Confirm that the charging case and the other AirPod still work.
Step 2: Locate your AirPods serial number
- You’ll need this to order a replacement.
- Find it by:
- Opening the Settings app on your iPhone → Tap Bluetooth → Tap the ⓘ next to your AirPods → Scroll to Serial Number.
- Or check inside the lid of the charging case.
Step 3: Contact Apple Support
- Go to Apple’s AirPods Support Page.
- Choose Lost or Missing AirPods or Replace an AirPod.
- Select whether you want to replace the left, right, or charging case.
Step 4: Place a replacement order
- Apple will offer a replacement for a fee:
- Around $69 for an AirPod (1st/2nd/3rd gen)
- $89 for AirPods Pro (each)
- You’ll pay online and provide shipping details.
Step 5: Wait for delivery
- Apple will ship the replacement to your address, usually within a few business days.
Step 6: Pair the new AirPod with your existing one
- Place both AirPods in your charging case.
- Close the lid and wait 30 seconds.
- Open the lid and press and hold the setup button on the back until the light flashes white.
- Bring your iPhone close and follow the on-screen prompts to re-pair.
💡 Tip: If you have AppleCare+ for Headphones, the replacement may cost less or even be free depending on the damage type.
Key Takeaways
- Apple allows customers to replace a single AirPod without buying a complete new set.
- Replacement costs $69 per standard AirPod and $89 for AirPods Pro models.
- AppleCare+ coverage significantly reduces replacement costs for lost or damaged AirPods.
Understanding AirPods Replacement Options
Apple offers several solutions when you need to replace a single AirPod rather than the entire set. These options vary based on your warranty status, whether you have AppleCare+, and the specific circumstances of your missing or damaged AirPod.
Determining AirPods Warranty and Coverage Status
AirPods come with a one-year Apple Limited Warranty that covers manufacturing defects but not accidental damage or loss. To check warranty status, users can visit Apple’s support website and enter their AirPods serial number, which is found on the original packaging or in iOS settings.
AppleCare+ for Headphones extends coverage to two years and includes up to two incidents of accidental damage per year. With AppleCare+, battery replacement is free if the battery holds less than 80% of its original capacity.
Some countries provide additional protection through Consumer Law, which may extend beyond Apple’s standard warranty periods. These protections vary by region but can offer valuable coverage for defects that appear after the standard warranty expires.
How to check warranty status:
- Check Settings > Bluetooth > AirPods information
- Look at original proof of purchase
- Contact Apple Support directly
Exploring Service Fees and Replacement Value
Replacement costs vary significantly depending on coverage status. Without AppleCare+, replacing a single AirPod can cost between $69-$89 depending on the model, while a lost charging case ranges from $59-$99.
With AppleCare+, the service fee for accidental damage is just $29 per incident. This represents substantial savings compared to out-of-warranty costs.
AirPods Replacement Pricing (Without AppleCare+):
Item | Standard AirPods | AirPods Pro |
---|---|---|
Single AirPod | $69 | $89 |
Charging Case | $59 | $99 |
Battery Service | $49 | $49 |
The replacement value becomes particularly important when comparing against the cost of purchasing an entirely new set. In most cases, replacing a single component is more economical than buying a complete new package.
Options for Lost or Damaged AirPods
If you lose a single AirPod, Apple’s replacement program allows you to purchase just the missing piece. Contact Apple Support through the website, phone, or visit an Apple Store with your original proof of purchase.
For faster service, Apple offers an Express Replacement Service where they ship a replacement immediately, then you return the damaged unit. This prevents extended periods without your complete AirPods set.
When submitting a replacement request, you’ll need:
- The AirPods serial number
- Proof of purchase
- The remaining AirPod (for damaged replacements)
For lost items, Apple requires you to remove the lost AirPod from your iCloud account using the Find My app before they can issue a replacement. This process helps prevent fraud and ensures proper pairing with your existing components.
How to Replace a Single AirPod
Losing one AirPod can be frustrating, but Apple offers several solutions to help you get a replacement. You don’t need to buy a whole new set when only one AirPod is missing or damaged.
Using the ‘Find My’ Feature for Lost AirPods
Before purchasing a replacement, try locating your missing AirPod using the ‘Find My’ feature. This built-in tool helps track down lost Apple devices including individual AirPods.
To use this feature:
- Open the ‘Find My’ app on your iPhone or iPad
- Select the ‘Devices’ tab
- Tap on your AirPods from the list
- The map will show the last known location of your AirPods
If one AirPod appears to be in a different location than its pair, you can select “Play Sound” to help locate it. The missing AirPod will emit a gradually increasing sound to help you find it. This feature works even if the AirPod is inside its case, though the sound will be quieter.
The ‘Find My’ app also offers a “Directions” button that opens Apple Maps to guide users to their AirPod’s location. This feature is especially helpful when the missing AirPod might be at some distance.
Contacting Apple Support for Assistance
If the ‘Find My’ feature doesn’t help locate your missing AirPod, contacting Apple Support is the next step. Apple offers single AirPod replacements for a fee.
AirPod replacement costs vary by model:
- Standard AirPods (1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation): $69 per earbud
- AirPods Pro: Higher replacement cost
Users with AppleCare+ benefit from reduced replacement fees. With this coverage, users pay only one incident fee to replace either a single AirPod or both AirPods.
To contact Apple Support:
- Visit support.apple.com
- Use the Apple Support app on iPhone
- Call 1-800-APL-CARE
When contacting support, have your Apple ID ready and be prepared to provide your AirPods’ serial number. The support team will guide you through the replacement process and inform you about shipping options and timing.
Visiting Your Nearest Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider
For immediate assistance, visiting an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider offers the quickest path to replacing a single AirPod. This option often provides same-day replacement if the store has the specific model in stock.
To prepare for your visit:
- Make an appointment through the Apple website to avoid waiting
- Bring your remaining AirPod and charging case
- Have proof of purchase if possible
- Bring ID that matches your Apple ID account
At the store, a technician will verify that you need only one AirPod replaced and not the entire set. They’ll also check if your replacement AirPod is compatible with your existing one. Remember that replacements must be from the same generation as your current AirPod.
Apple Authorized Service Providers can also replace single AirPods, though they may set their own service fees. It’s advisable to call ahead and ask for an estimate.