Dead pixel limit for repair (applecare covered)

I think they have an algorithm for it... but it's really specific to each person that sees your computer.

Apple has a "pixel anomaly" document online which states that "no LCD is ever perfect".

I too, will be bringing my computer in for pixel problems - and will fight my way to a new screen. I probably have 3-6 dead/stuck ones single, and 3-4 mini clusters along the sides and bottoms.

They're a bit annoying, but not that bad, hence why I haven't gotten it repaired yet

I know people have gotten theirs replaced for 1-3 pixels, so it's just the luck of the draw.

If you have a local apple store, you can go in and show them, and they will tell you... it's much more annoying if you don't.

good luck

Hi Fez,

Apple, like many manufacturers, is very cagey about exactly how many pixels can be considered enough for a panel replacement. 5 is a lot, especially in the middle of the screen, and I would say that you should contact them. I know a lot of people with MacBook Pros (about 5) and none of them have dead pixels.

The "trick" to getting your screen replaced is to be very nice about it. Most service people will treat nice customers well, while ones who are being rude will be treated by the book, which in this case, publicly, is very vague.

Apple's official policy on dead and stuck pixels is outlined here - http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=22194

Good luck.

I received my Apple Care pack in the mail around 4-5 days after receiving the MBP. Run your serial number on the warranty service page, it'll show the amount of remaining days.

Tech tool deluxe, in that red box, is your apple care protection plan


There should have been an enrollment # on the outside of the box.

If you purchased in store - they most likely activated it immediately

Apple does have very specific acceptable limits that ALL Service Providers are aware of. The limits are based on specific total combination of dead and/or hot RGB subpixels. Service providers are not allowed to disclose to customers what the count is, but they are also not allowed to be subjective, when determining if replacement is warranted.
If you think you are being treated unfairly by an independent service provider, try dealing directly with Apple Support. You may fare better.

MBP Mac OS X (10.4.8)

Call them and give them the serial number, ask how long the warranty is good for. Then explain the problem to them, they'll take care of it.

I never got "the red box" either, but it has 900 some odd days left under warranty, so I got what I paid for.

If you bought your computer with APP on Apple Online Store, You only got your APP warranty date printed on the invoice, you may be able to check on Apple Support page on your warranty contract period. Remember to keep your invoice all the time.