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Published on: 20.03.2024 | updated on: 02.04.2024
Replacing your MacBook screen yourself can be challenging, but with the right tools, high-quality parts, manuals, and guides, it can be tackled by those who would like to take a risk. DIY MacBook screen replacement requires a careful approach and a deep understanding of MacBooks and their complex structures to avoid further damage.
MacBook’s broken screen cannot only affect your user experience but also your budget, as MacBook screens, especially the latest ones with retina display, do not come cheap. Though Mac screen repairs should be best handled by professionals skilled in this field, you can also perform the procedure yourself to save costs. However, having technical knowledge, replacement kits and tools, and a high-quality replacement part are crucial to performing a successful screen repair.
If your MacBook does not fall under warranty and you want to replace the screen without having to pay a very high upfront cost, here is the step-by-step DIY screen replacement guide you can follow;
Unplug every single peripheral attached to your Mac. This includes other devices and a USB.
Now, turn off your MacBook since we will be detaching the batteries and screen from it.
Carefully place your MacBook upside down.
Use your P5 Pentalobe screwdriver to open all the screws.
Now, remove the panel from your Macbook.
Carefully strip off the plastic cover.
The clipper is attached to a tape. Flip this tape over.
Now, gently open the clipper upwards.
Next, you have to slide the flex cable toward your left so that it slides out.
To detach the screw below the tape, use a T4 screwdriver.
Your MacBook battery is now disconnected.
To start with, you can use a T3 or T4 screwdriver to open the screw on the antenna cable cover.
Disunite the antenna cable cover.
With the help of tweezers, hold the antenna connector and pull it straight up to detach the cable.
Repeat this process for the second antenna cable.
Using a T3 screwdriver, open the two screws which are securing the display cable connector cover.
Detach the display cable connector cover.
Using the flat end of the spudger, remove the display cable connector from the antenna board to disassemble it.
To detach the antenna bar, use a T5 Torx driver to unscrew the 6 screws securing it
Detach the antenna bar.
Use the pointed end of a spudger to insert into the gap between the antenna bar and the display hinge and then rotate it to open the end of the antenna bar.
Repeat for the other side of the antenna bar.
Remove the antenna bar straight up, away from the case.
With the help of a T8 screwdriver, remove the screws from each hinge.
Try to open the upper case to open your Macbook as far as possible, with the MacBook still upside down.
Place the MacBook sideways, with the display facing away from you, and unhinge the two remaining display hinge screws from each hinge, respectively.
The display is no longer connected.
To prepare the new screen, remove any protective cover from the packaging.
To reassemble, follow the above steps in reverse.
Align the new screen with the hinges and secure it using an appropriate screwdriver.
Now, you can recombine the previously removed cables.
Screw back in all the removed screws.
Reconnect the battery.
Finally, rejoin the back panel to the MacBook using the appropriate screwdriver.
Restart the computer to ensure that the new screen is working fine.
A DIY MacBook screen replacement is a cost-effective solution if you have the technical know-how, necessary parts and tools, and confidence to perform the procedure. A MacBook screen replacement kit, including the part, will cost you anywhere between $200 and $500, depending on how serious the damage is and the model of your Mac.
While there are hundreds of repair stores across the United States, it’s recommended to go to reliable and trustworthy repair centers to ensure the repair process is done correctly. The most suitable option would be Apple’s official repair store, especially if your MacBook is covered under AppleCare+. However, if it’s not covered under warranty anymore, you can visit any repair store associated with Simply Fixable and get your MacBook screen replaced by their skilled professionals. They also provide a 90-day warranty from the date of service, giving you peace of mind that any issue post-repair will be taken care of.
Here are the average MacBook screen replacement costs by the professionals across the United States:
Cost |
Simply Fixable |
Apple |
Avg. iPhone screen repair cost |
$155.77 |
$250.15 |
iPhone screen repair cost
*Data in the given table is based on Simply Fixable's market research and the official Apple website
The Apple self-repair program is aimed at allowing individuals with the apt knowledge and experience to repair their electronics at home. One has to be extremely well-versed in the intricacies of being able to repair an electronic device at home. You can follow the steps listed below to repair your device at home:
Begin with the repair manual: It is important to thoroughly read the repair manual to understand the model of your device and the required steps, parts, and tools to repair your MacBook screen at home.
Order authentic parts for an Apple product repair: To ensure an easy and effective process of repair, you must order high-quality tools and original replacement parts screen. Original Apple parts are designed and tailored for each product and endure a thorough testing period to ensure high-quality results along with long-term reliability.
Repair your device: After your MacBook screen is delivered to you, you can carry out the repair process at home, taking help from the repair manual by following the instructions listed in it.
Return the old part for recycling: The screen that you have replaced can be returned to Apple so that it can be recycled and reused responsibly. You may even receive credit for specific repair types performed on your MacBook.
Here are some common DIY repair mistakes to avoid while replacing the MacBook screen;
Not being fully prepared, such as lacking appropriate tools, components, and a manual, can lead to an intense feeling of frustration and ultimately damage the MacBook screen a lot more than it already is.
In some cases, when you open your MacBook for screen repair, you might lose your data and important files. Therefore, it is imperative to take ample time to back up your data before starting screen replacement.
Make sure that you are working with a powered-down MacBook while repairing it. If the MacBook is powered on or plugged into a power source, there is a risk of electric shock or damage to the internal components.
If you misplace any screws after you have disassembled your MacBook, you will face serious problems during the reassembly of your MacBook. It is, therefore, very important to place all the screws and components in a safe place during the repair process.
Before starting to repair your device at home, ensure that the factors listed below are checked beforehand;
You need to understand what kind of problem you are dealing with; are you dealing with a cracked screen, display issues, or dead pixels.
Before repairing the screen, you need to analyze if you have the correct technical skills and experience to help repair the problem.
You must ensure that the required tools and components are readily available and easily accessible.
Read any available manuals and resources to enhance your knowledge about the process of repairing.
It is important to take note of the environment you are working in to mitigate potential risks.
In some cases, you can lose your data in the process of repairing. Take time out to back up your data and important files.
Being well-versed in the potential risks and their consequences can help achieve more effective results.
The repairing process can be strenuous in some cases. Therefore, it is important to devote a considerable amount of time to it and maintain your composure.
Starting with simple and easy repairs will help you become familiar with the process.
It could be great to seek professional help if the repair at home isn’t working out as expected.
It is not an easy task to DIY repair a faulty screen at home, but it’s not impossible either. After you have replaced your faulty screen with a new one, here is how you can check if your repair process has been successful;
Examine any display outputs: Thoroughly examine the screen to see if there are any display outputs. If the screen is completely black or is showing disfigured images, then there could be a problem with the replaced screen.
Look for dead pixels: To look for dead pixels, you can use a white image. If any black dots are observed, then these are dead pixels showcasing that there is some issue with the screen.
Check backlight: If your screen displays a dim image, even with increased brightness, then this could indicate an issue with the backlight.
Listed below are all the tools and components you would require to replace a MacBook screen:
A new replacement screen
Screwdriver set or toolbox
A spudger or any pry tool
Wrist Strap
Cleaning solution
Adhesive material or strips
If you decide to repair your MacBook at home, it is very important to consider buying quality parts. However, unlike professional repair services, which have the appropriate contacts and links to source high-quality tools and replacement parts, it can be quite difficult to find durable parts for DIY repairs.
There are several sources from where you can purchase authentic parts. Make sure that whatever vendor you choose is reliable and has good reviews.
Replacing and repairing a MacBook screen at home can take a few hours. However, these depend on how experienced you are and if you have enough knowledge to perform the repair process at home. Typically, the repair process will take up to 4-5 hours on average, including;
Time spent in preparation and research
Actual repair process time
Reassembly and final checks
The difficulty level of any repair is directly proportional to the damage that you are working with. When working with a cracked screen, the difficulty level is relatively easy; however, if you are dealing with backlight issues or dead pixels, then the repair process can become extremely difficult.
To identify whether or not your screen needs a replacement, you need to check for the following signs;
Flickering or disfigured display: If your display is distorted and flickering, then this can be a direct sign that your screen is malfunctioning and needs a replacement.
Dead Pixels: These are pixels that are no longer functioning, another indication of a faulty screen.
Cracked screen: The most evident indication of a broken MacBook screen is a cracked or shattered screen, which should be replaced immediately.
Distorted Images: If the colors or images on your screen appear to be distorted, then this indicates a damaged LCD panel, which should be replaced.
Continued Backlight Issues: The backlight illuminates the display. If the display is not working properly, the backlight is faulty and needs to be replaced.
To protect your MacBook Screen, you can:
Invest in a good quality MacBook sleeve: This protects your MacBook from scratches, knicks, and dents.
Tempered glass screen protectors: This is the most effective way to protect your MacBook screen from scratches and other significant impacts.
MacBook cases: Investing in a good-quality case for your MacBook can help it withstand accidents and other impacts that can cause the screen to crack.
Yes, it is absolutely worth it to repair the screen of your MacBook, as it can save you money compared to buying a new one. However, if the damage is beyond repair, then it is recommended that you buy a new device instead.
Yes, you can fix your MacBook screen at home as long as you pair the right skills and knowledge with high-quality tools. However, if the screen is severely damaged or you’re not very experienced with disassembling a MacBook, then it’s recommended to seek professional help.
If you have accidentally damaged or broken your MacBook’s screen, you don’t have to worry. We are here to suggest different ways to help your MacBook back up and running again. Here are all the possible ways to resolve a broken MacBook screen:
Use manual repairs and online resources to fix the screen
Order high-quality tools and components for replacement
Use your skills and experience to help solve the problem
Seek help from experts in case of severe damage
Top-of-the-line work resulting in brand new feel of the MacBook
Comes with a warranty
Buy a new MacBook if damage can not be fixed
Most expensive but offers the best and most reliable results
Here are some common MacBook problems:
This is a common issue that can occur when the display fails to illuminate. There are many reasons for a black screen, including software glitches, hardware failures, or power supply problems.
MacBook screens may shatter or crack due to force or impact and should be immediately replaced. Broken screens are one of the most frequently encountered problems with MacBooks and severely affect the user experience.
When the screen becomes unresponsive, and the display freezes, it could indicate software issues, overheating problems, or other system malfunctions that require troubleshooting or repair.
MacBook screens are expensive to replace due to their complex structure and high-quality retina displays.
The only way you can use a Mac with a broken screen is by connecting it to an external monitor.
Apple may fix your MacBook screen for free if it's under warranty or if there's a manufacturing defect. Otherwise, repair charges may apply.
MacBook screens are known to be durable, but their sleek designs can make them susceptible to damage from impacts or drops.
Mac screens are LED-backlit LCDs, combining liquid crystal display technology with LED backlighting for brightness and vibrant colors.
DIY MacBook screen replacement is a cost-effective yet complex task that requires a great deal of attention and the right combination of tools and parts. While the DIY Mac screen repair may save you money and time, it also comes with risks. If you decide to repair the MacBook screen yourself, it’s important to consider the risks as well as benefits to ensure the procedure is done smoothly without any issues.
Tech Writer | Photographer
LinkedIn: Madiha Khadim
Madi is a dynamic tech writer with a passion for simplifying complex concepts. Her expertise lies in creating clear and concise guides, blogs, manuals, and tutorials that empower users to navigate the technological landscape with ease. Throughout her career, Madi has worked with numerous leading tech companies, collaborating with engineers, developers, designers and marketers to create user manuals, FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and tech articles, on the websites such as "Technology Castle" and "Bilzimo". She can transform intricate technical jargon into user-friendly language, empowering users to understand and utilize products effectively.
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