Screen Repair

The best solution for a failed MacBook screen is expert replacement of the glass LCD panel. Here’s why:

Genuine Apple screen assemblies are typically 50% of the value of a new MacBook. They are expensive because they are very high quality and will last 10+ years if handled gently. But being mobile they suffer more abuse than an iMac sat at home. Their parts include:

1. 1. 1. Metal lid with hinges
      2. Camera
      3. LED backlight (can fail if subjected to shock)
      4. Glass LCD panel (cracks if pressed)

It is best to replace only what has broken to maintain the high quality of all parts and keep long-term reliability.

I hesitate to advise replacement of the entire assembly with an aftermarket screen assembly because it reduces the quality level of all the parts. If you are in a rush contact me to see if I have a genuine used screen in stock.

This table shows all your options for repair. I recommend Choice 1 but I also accept that Choice 2 or 3 may be favoured depending on customers circumstances. All screens have the same resolution and have an Apple logo but some customers say the colours of the panel used in genuine Apple screens are superior.

Caveats: I will only put a new LCD panel into a genuine screen assembly. If your metal lid is too bent or your backlight failed I may be able to source a genuine substitute.

Choice (1=Best)	Method	Takes	Advantage	Warranty	Relative Cost
1 New LCD Panel	Glass only replacement. New LG manufactured LCD panel as fitted to genuine screens.	4 days	High quality (reliable)	365 days	60%
2 Used Screen	Genuine Apple screen assembly supplied by me or you	1-3 days	High quality (reliable)	30 days	55%
3 Aftermarket Screen	Aftermarket screen assembly supplied by me or you	0.5 day	Quick but reduced quality	90 days	60%
4 Genuine Apple screen (new)	Genuine Apple screen assembly supplied and fitted by Apple	10 days	High quality (reliable)	365 days	100%

 

If you want to keep costs down by sourcing your own screen assembly read the paragraphs below.

I can fit it for you including calibrating the screen angle sensor.

Fill in this form for any preferred solution

Comparison

LCD Replacement is my recommended solution and is both economical and maintains the quality of the screen assembly. Only the glass LCD panel is replaced. It retains your existing top quality camera, backlight, light sensor and hinges. Please note: any pre-existing issues with the backlight or camera are not corrected by replacement of the LCD panel. You must let us know if an issue needs correcting. If your metal lid is bent I may be able to source another genuine lid.

Aftermarket Screen Assembly is a solution that often suits people in a hurry as repair can be achieved within 3 or 4 hours. It can be purchased online and picked up immediately in Trafford Park or you can wait for it to be delivered overnight. The more you get involved – the more money you save!

Its urgent – Whats the quickest solution!

1. 1. Purchase online on the ACCUPART website. Search by model number found on the underside of your MacBook e.g. A2337
   2. Overnight delivery is free or pick it up at the warehouse (email them immediately after purchase otherwise it is put on the delivery lorry at 2pm). They will respond. Don’t phone them – they haven’t got the hang of answering phones.  Further details below
   3. Phone me 30 minutes prior to arrival at UK MAC REPAIR to have it fitted while you wait

What you need to know

1. A screen is best referred to as a screen assembly because it includes the metal lid, backlight, camera, ambient light sensor and LCD panel
2. A screen assembly is identified by model and colour. e.g. “A2337 space grey”. Model number is printed on underside of MacBook
3. New genuine Apple screens are only available from Apple or authorised resellers
4. Used genuine Apple screens are listed as USED on Ebay
5. Aftermarket (non genuine) screens are listed on Ebay as NEW. They all have Apple logos
6. Fitting involves disassembly using 5 different screw drivers, 40+ screws and electronic calibration tools

ACCUPART in Trafford Park

If you need a screen urgently in Manchester you can purchase an aftermarket screen online on the ACCUPART website. They are the best aftermarket screens I have found but not as good as a genuine screen or LG LCD panel replacement. They include next day delivery but you can pick it up at their warehouse in Trafford Park M17 1PZ (open Monday – Friday 9am – 1230pm, 130pm – 4pm). Website & Email only. Phones are not answered. Warranty is strictly 90 days. Extended warranty available for approx 10%. Email them. Ring the door bell before entering the waiting area.

APPLE and authorised resellers

Apple is known for high quality screens. Sadly their prices are as high as their quality and they are only available from Apple or an authorised reseller. If you have bought a new MacBook it probably is worth getting it on to AppleCare to take advantage of the replacement service in the event of an accident for approx. £80 per event. SYNC is an authorised reseller located on a technology park in Monsall, M40 5BP. Phone them with the MacBook serial number and they quote to fit you a genuine Apple screen at Apple prices. They will need to order it in.

Comparison of genuine versus aftermarket screen assemblies

Aftermarket screens are cheaper than new genuine Apple screens and look the same. They all have the Apple logo and can be purchased from a variety of sources including Ebay and Amazon.

However, it is debatable if they are as durable and reliable as the original screen. If they stop working after their 90 day warranty, even when there is no visible cause like a dent, chip or crack, there is little recourse other than to argue the quality and durability requirements of the Consumer Rights Act 2015 which may only get settled in court.

You can install a screen yourself but it involves removing approx. 40 screws with 5 different screwdrivers. You never need to remove the logic board but you always need to remove the aerial assembly and sometimes the speakers. Some models have screen angle sensors that need replacement and recalibration with any change of screen hardware. Calibration requires specialist electronic equipment costing £100+ so it is simply not economical for one use only.