Is it expensive to repair a MacBook?

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Level 1

6 points

Is it expensive to repair a MacBook?

Hey,

I only have some minor hardware issues with my MacBook Pro so I'd only consider getting the repairs done if the price is right.

One of my keys (the number 2 key) has become quite loose and sometimes pops out from time to time. It fits back in but I think at one point it won't.

Does anyone have any idea on how expensive it would be to have this repair? Is it even worth doing?

The other problem I'm having is quite strange and it's to do with the charger...

Basically, if I plug the adapter into a plug socket and attach the charger immediately after the Mac charges fine. However, if I wait around 20 seconds and then attach the charger, it simply won't do anything! I have to unplug the adapter for about a minute before putting it back in and attaching the charger again immediately.

Any ideas why I'm having this problem? Is it a hardware issue with the Mac or the charger itself? Any ideas how much it would cost to fix it?

Hope to hear from someone soon 🙂

Thanks!

MacBook Pro (13-inch Early 2011), OS X Mountain Lion, iPhone, MacBook Pro & iMessages

Posted on Dec 11, 2012 9:02 AM

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Answer 1

OGELTHORPE

Level 9

57,329 points

Dec 11, 2012 9:29 AM in response to Lewsh

Costs can only be determined accurately at a repair facility. The power adapter phenomenon that you describe can best be addressed at an Apple store genius bar. Bring it along with your MBP for evaluation.

Ciao.

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Answer 2

Courcoul

Level 6

18,732 points

Dec 11, 2012 9:39 AM in response to Lewsh

The power issue will probably be covered by the warranty, if still in force. So there should be no charge for that.

As for the keyboard, Apple will adamantly say it is either a "cosmetic issue" or something due to "user misuse" and refuse to repair gratis. AND the official way to deal with key issues is to replace the whole keyboard; in the case of the Unibodies, that requires replacing the whole "topcase", i.e., the whole chassis, save for the bottom cover and the top lid/display. They transfer all the guts of your current Mac onto a new topcase. Then charge you ~$800 for it.

I suggest taking it in to the Store for the power issue. And purchasing a spare keycap from https://www.replacementlaptopkeys.com/ for the key issue.

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