MacBook Pro Backlight LEDs are Failing

I doubt the LEDs themselves have failed... but rather the controller for them (or wiring, etc). I am not aware of any recall related to this. This is actually the first I've heard of this. You'll need to bring your maching into Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provide (AASP) to check it out. Would it be possible for you to take a photo and post it here?

Well... that's one I haven't seen before. It definitely looks like a controller issue that might require service. It looks like you have a pre-unibody MacBook Pro so I'd imagine any warranty you may have had would have expired by now. Plenty of people here have replaced their LCD panels. Very often, when re-assembling, they come up with problems due to loose connections, broken cables, etc. It's possible that someone here may have run into this issue and was able to determine what happened that caused it. Hopefully someone that has seen this before can chime in.

EDIT: I did just come across this:

http://www.mobilemag.com/2008/04/01/penryn-macbook-pro-has-led-backlight-problem s/

This seems to be similar, but not as drastic:

http://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/56919/LED+backlight+has+a+dark+pattern+on+bot tom+edge+of+the+screen

iFixit.com is a good place for MBP parts and instructions and you will be able to determine what tools are needed. Replacing the display is not one of the easiest jobs.

Ciao.

I'll second OGELTHORPE's suggestion of iFixit.com... They've been around for years and provide excellent instructions (they also sell the parts).

Hi,

I have exactly the same problem with my MacBook Pro 2,8 GHz Intel Core i7 on Mac OS X 10.8.2

I've been looking like crazy for a good example of what was happening, because I wanted to have a good explanation to give to the applecare-guys. Very relieved to finally find this post!

Tried to rest the PRAM a couple of times already. Didn't help. Usually the problem just fades away after a while, but it's still very annoying especially because I get worried that my macbook will just freak at some point and die.

Anyway, I'm going to call applecare tomorrow (it's Sunday today) and hopefully they will fix/replace my MacBook since it's still in warranty. I'll keep you guys posted!

Greets!

What do you do if the problem persists? Did apple replace you screen?

I have this same problem with my late 2008 MBP, but the fix Tomahawk linked to does work for me, atleast right now. If anyone else is experiencing this issue at least try this quick fix:

-Press control+shift+eject to put the display to sleep

-Then any key to wake the display

On my system, the issue is resolved after the display reset.

The display reset worked like a charm - thanks eaarico.

Does anyone know if this is a sign of a bigger problem? Should I start saving for a full service/new screen/new macbook???

Thanks.

I'm still on the same system, and the display is working fine. I don't think this issue is the "begining of the end" or anything like that...

Apple offered to troubleshoot your computer in its entirety, and repair everything that is defective for $310. You rejected that offer, and now contemplate replacing the LCD yourself, and pay $400 for the panel alone. That doesn't make any sense to me.