The technology company Apple continues to receive praise for its innovative design capacity resulting in occasional hardware system problems with all tech manufacturers. The 13 inches MacBook Pro display backlight issue compelled Apple to start the 13 inches MacBook Pro display backlight service program. This guide provides details about the display backlight service program and all related information for MacBook Pro owners who possess models from 2016 or 2017 facing display problems.
What does the 13 Inch MacBook Pro Display Backlight Service Program provide?
In May 2019 Apple announced information about defective 13-inch MacBook Pro models publicly. Users experienced screen problems along with two main faults such as total display backlight failure and the “stage lighting” effect that appeared in the screen’s lower sections. Apple established the 13 inch MacBook Pro Display Backlight Service Program which provides complimentary repairs to qualified notebook computers.
Users who operate a MacBook Pro made during the production period from October 2016 to February 2018 qualify for this program.
Symptoms of the MacBook Pro 2016 Backlight Issue
The MacBook Pro 2016 backlight problem displays itself through two primary symptoms:
- The display backlight reveals the shining area which extends across the lower portion of the screen.
- Users encounter a complete failure of the screen backlight due to which their display becomes unusable.
Flexgate represents these two issues within the MacBook community. The origin of these problems points to the flex cable structure which joins the display to the logic board. Wear and tear from frequent opening and closing operations of the MacBook can deteriorate the display cable until it causes display breakdowns.
Models Covered by the Display Backlight Service Program
The MacBook Pro display backlight service program extends coverage to particular 13-inch MacBook Pro computer models. Eligible devices include:
- An Apple MacBook Pro 13-inches and Four Thunderbolt 3 Port
- An Apple MacBook Pro 13-inches and Two Thunderbolt 3 Port
Check your device serial number on Apple’s official support website for eligibility verification. The repair program from Apple supports affected MacBook units through five years from their initial retail purchase date or three years under the program even if that period exceeds the five-year mark.
How to Get Your MacBook Repaired Under the Display Backlight Service Program
Review the following procedure if you think your MacBook Pro qualifies for complimentary servicing through the 13 inch MacBook Pro display backlight service program.
- Locate your serial number
- The Apple logo located at the top left corner of your screen serves as the starting point.
- We can also locate the serial number by accessing about Mac from your screen.
- The Apple logo located at the top left corner of your screen serves as the starting point.
- Visit Apple’s Support Website
- The support page of Apple enables users to check their eligibility using the serial number.
- The support page of Apple enables users to check their eligibility using the serial number.
- Choose a Service Option
You have several choices for repair:
- We can also reserve an appointment either at an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
- You need to ship your MacBook to Apple Support for maintenance after establishing the necessary coordination.
- We can also reserve an appointment either at an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
- Backup Your Data
- You should always create data backups prior to giving to your MacBook to a service facility.
All eligible repairs within this program receive free service. Customers who paid for repairs of MacBook Pro 2017 flexgate or backlight issues should pursue refunds from the program.
Why Did the MacBook Pro 2017 Flexgate Happen?
A major disagreement emerged regarding the flexgate connection between display and motherboard as Apple designed the MacBook Pro 2017. The cable connecting display to motherboard was integrated into the display in the 2016–2017 MacBook Pro models instead of being detachable and strong like previous versions. The integrated cable design made the laptop prone to damage with every movement of the laptop lid.
The flex cable suffers wear and tear from frequent use and may result in total display backlight failure or the stage light phenomenon at the screen bottom.
Apple implemented new design changes to the flex cable which elongated and strengthened it in later MacBook Pro versions.
Important Things Must Know About Display Backlight Service Program
- Limited to 13-inch Models: The program applies to specific 13-inch MacBook Pro models which released in 2016 and 2017.
- No Cost to the Customer: The customer receives free repairs when their device meets the eligibility requirements.
- Duration: The insurance coverage remains valid throughout five years starting from when the product was first offered in retail stores.
- No Software Updates Needed: The hardware fixing requires no updates of software since this repair operates solely on the machine’s hardware components.
- Backup Your Data: A backup of your data must be created before starting any MacBook repair work.
Conclusion
Through its 13 inch MacBook Pro display backlight service program Apple aims to resolve problems affecting the mass market of MacBook Pro 2016 displays and issues stemming from the MacBook Pro 2017 flexgate problem. The display backlight service program provides a free repair service for malfunctioning 13-inch MacBook Pro displays so you should join immediately.
Make sure you create a complete backup of your valuable data before making any hardware maintenance attempts. Act upon your display problems because the program is currently active and available for you to use.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my MacBook Pro is eligible for the display backlight service program?
The Apple support website and Apple Stores and Authorized Service Providers both offer checks for eligibility through your MacBook’s serial number.
2. What if my MacBook Pro is not eligible, but it has the same backlight issue?
The repair process is still possible for outside-eligible devices or alternative models; however Apple Support must handle the costs. Contact Apple Support for discussions about your available alternatives.
3. Will Apple cover shipping if I mail my MacBook Pro for repair?
Users who need to send their Apple MacBook Pro to Apple for repair services receive complimentary shipping from the company.
4. What happens if I already paid for a backlight repair before the program started?
Apple provides reimbursement for all previous repair expenses located within the scope of MacBook Pro display backlight service program faults. Get in touch with Apple Support to present your repair documentation.
5. Can I continue using my MacBook if I have the display backlight problem?
The device remains physically operational but you should not use it because the screen damage could become worse. The deterioration of a backlight that fails may lead to complete screen breakdown in the future. You should find prompt screen repair solutions.
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