Can the Unibody be replaced

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Level 1

10 points

Can the Unibody be replaced

Hi, I have had a the new Macbook Pro for a couple of weeks now and have already noticed a very slight dent on the metal palm rest. I know that the first dent/scratch is always the hardest but it has concerned me considering the great care that I have taken with handling the laptop.

Just to put my mind at rest, does the new Unibody design make it more difficult and expensive to replace if I wanted to refurb the laptop at some point in the future ie after it has been banged up over the next few years? Is this viable?

Kind regards

Macbook Pro (late 2008), Mac OS X (10.5.5)

Posted on Dec 6, 2008 4:20 PM

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Answer 1

LukeD

Level 4

3,153 points

Dec 6, 2008 5:06 PM in response to alexcord

While I have not suffered any dents yet, I have investigated the same thought myself.

Having the unibody replaced is probably the hardest thing to do, and it would not make any sense financially.

Unless it was to be performed by Apple, or an authorized dealer, it would void the warranty as well.

The interesting catch with the unibody is that even if you want to replace a damaged keyboard or key, Apple considers it one piece, and they would replace the entire unibody, which would pose a significant cost.

You should review the following link for more interesting information.

http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/First-Look/Mac/MacBook-Pro-Unibody

Should I learn anything else, I will certainly write back here.

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Answer 2

alexcord Author

Level 1

10 points

Dec 6, 2008 5:09 PM in response to LukeD

Hi Luke, thanks for the reply. Hmmm thats what I was dreading. I was really looking for a way to sweeten the disappointment at the first dent. I have to say that I am not convinced by the strength of the Unibody. To have got a dent from standard use does seem a little worrying, perhaps it is a little thin and another case of design over practicality?

Kind regards

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Answer 3

LukeD

Level 4

3,153 points

Dec 6, 2008 5:13 PM in response to alexcord

Where is your dent located?

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Answer 4

alexcord Author

Level 1

10 points

Dec 6, 2008 5:18 PM in response to LukeD

About 3 cm from the left hand speaker. It really is very small but can just be seen when the light catches it. I have been aware of some users experiencing issues when picking the Mac up with one hand and so have avoided doing this. I take it the construction should be strong enough to not be dented from pinching during carrying?

Regards

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Answer 5

LukeD

Level 4

3,153 points

Dec 6, 2008 5:20 PM in response to alexcord

The unibody is much stronger than the previous casing.

Having stated that, I would check out the following thread.

http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=1780318&start=0&tstart=0

I would call Apple Customer relations right away. Explain your situation. They will definitely work to make things right.

Apple Customer Relations (800) 767-2775

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Answer 6

alexcord Author

Level 1

10 points

Dec 6, 2008 5:23 PM in response to LukeD

Thanks Luke, will contact them. Kind regards

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Answer 7

LukeD

Level 4

3,153 points

Dec 6, 2008 5:41 PM in response to alexcord

You are very welcome, Alex.

Please let us know how it goes with Apple.

Good luck!

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