So many of these threads about AppleCare+ annoy me because they ignore the most important AppleCare+ benefit: Express Replacement.

With AppleCare+ for iPhone, you always have the right to request an Express Replacement in lieu of a Genius Bar repair or mail in repair. This applies both to accidental damage repairs (subject to a $99 deductible) or hardware defects (no deductible).

With Express Replacement, Apple sends you a new or "equivalent to new" iPhone and when you receive it you ship back your defective iPhone. Apple places a hold on your credit card equal to the value of the iPhone until they receive the defective iPhone back.

In my opinion, the only reason not to opt for Express Replacement is if you need a screen only and/or back glass only repair subject to the lower $29 deductible.

If you can't afford to have a repair hold equal to the value of your iPhone on your credit card for about a week, I'd argue that you really can't afford said iPhone in the first place.

Note: "Equivalent to new" replacement products from Apple are just that: Equivalent to new. Impossible to tell that they're not brand new unless you were told so. Don't believe anyone who says otherwise.

TLDR: Once the OP purchases AppleCare+ for their iPhone, they should reach out to Apple Support (I recommend over chat), describe their issue, then request for an Express Replacement.