Broken LCD, or more?

Replacing the screen yourself will void the warranty since Apple says the only user replaceable parts are the memory and hard drive.

There could be additional damage, depending on how the impact occured, to other components...you can test the MBP by connecting another monitor and see how it is working and have some clues from that.

The panel could be pulling away due to the damage, but you won't know for sure about it reseating correctly until the screen is replaced.

All of which argue in favor of an authorized repair beiong done...they will check for other damage and can repair any they find while it is in pieces.

But do try connecting another monitor before anything further so you at least have an idea of how it is working.

Simple fact is to replace the screen you are going to need to take the unit almost completely apart.

That in itself voids the warranty. Then you have the bent case. No metal once bent ever goes back to the same shape it was before it got bent. Not only that but the bottom part of the case is more then likely bent to some degree also. Which could and would put stress on the internal components, more then would be on them in a Unbent case.

When and if you needed to use the Applecare warranty Apple would more then likely say the Problem/s you are having is cause by abuse (which is totally true) and not fix anything under the warranty coverage.

Good Luck and best wishes.

Since I don't have a copy of your AppleCare material I really can't give an exact quote, just relying on other experience with their warranties...it would be pretty rare to have an extended warranty that allowed the user to make changes, perform repairs and still cover the item...if you perform a repair and mess something up in the process then that would mean more work and expense under the warranty. So not very likely they would look favorably on you doing a screen replacement.

If you replace the screen with one that does not match the Apple part numbers in use or in use as replacement, they would know immediately if the MBP came in for further repair. Even if it is the same manufacturer part number that Apple uses, Apple puts their own inventory sticker on components so that would be a flag to them that this was not done by an authorized repair service.

Of course, these are just my views and experience and not official Apple statements. Easy way to get a definitive answer would be to ask Apple and/or check the AppleCare documents you have.

Apple can be contacted at:

http://www.apple.com/contact

All those option are open to you but it has been my experience that none of them is going to allow you or your GF to use the Applecare warranty in the event that some other part goes bad. Because of or not becasue of this current damage.

Apple is not where they are today without knowing exactly when something was or was not damaged because of abuse.

And how would you feel about someone that tried to take advantage of you in the same way you are suggesting with Apple?

If you are OK with that then go for it.

Best of luck.