A growing number of MacBook Pro users are reporting a concerning display issue on their Apple laptops, characterized by distorted screens with purple lines. Referred to by display experts as “Dustgate,” this problem impacts various older MacBook Pro models. As users express their concerns, Apple has yet to address or comment on the situation.
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MacBook Pro Purple Line Issue
Forbes reports that MacBook Pro models A1989, A2251, A2289, A2338, and A2141, sold between 2018 and 2020, are grappling with a display issue known as Dustgate. Although A2141 is notably the most affected, newer models released between 2016 and 2020 are also susceptible to this problem. Users have observed that when MacBook Pros from these lineups are opened at specific angles, mysterious purple lines emerge on the display.
Just when I thought my MacBook Pro 16 was fixed, it failed again! Had to replace the logic board and now dealing with a display strip issue. Spending $2000 to maintain this crap is beyond ridiculous. @Apple, you’ve let me down big time. #macbookprofail @AppleSupport @tim_cook pic.twitter.com/wG7wqp3zRq
— Vyshakh Ashok (@vyshakhashok) June 6, 2023
The root cause of this issue appears to be a damaged screen flex cable responsible for connecting the display to the laptop body. Dust and dirt, collected through a gap at the hinge between the display and the keyboard, are identified as culprits. Over time, the repeated opening and closing of the screen lid lead to the debris damaging the underlying cable. Repair professionals interviewed by Forbes highlight that this is a prevalent problem, with numerous users seeking assistance for MacBook Pro models affected by Dustgate each week. Concerned users have taken to platforms like Reddit and Apple Discussions forum to share their experiences with this issue.
MacBook Pro Laptop M2 Pro chip with 12‑core CPU and 19‑core GPU: 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display, 16GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD Storage. Received in not powering on issue.. Status solved 👍🏻#repair #macbookpro #macbookrepair #applerepair #macmini #macbookair pic.twitter.com/xmSAna4zeS
— Ashis 🇮🇳 (@FANRAWIND) April 24, 2023
How To Fix
According to repair specialists at iCorrect, addressing Dustgate damage proves to be a challenging and expensive task. The screen flex cables, integral to resolving the issue, are affixed to the back of the screen. Repairers are required to delicately remove the screen from the back panel to access and replace the damaged cable. This intricate process must be executed with precision to avoid any damage to the thin panels, adding to the complexity and cost of the repair.
“Just when I thought my MacBook Pro 16 was fixed, it failed again! Had to replace the logic board and now dealing with a display strip issue. Spending $1800 to maintain this crap is beyond ridiculous. @Apple, you’ve let me down big time.” #disappointed #macbookprofail pic.twitter.com/OHKjCDdJpd
— Shravan Ashok (@shrawanashok) March 14, 2023
Repair Cost
Opting for an Apple repair comes with a hefty price tag, as the company typically replaces the entire display unit, costing users considerably more, with reports indicating around $625 in the United States. To proactively prevent this issue, users are advised to take regular measures to keep their laptops clean. This involves frequent cleaning of the laptop, particularly around the hinge area, to ensure that dust does not accumulate and potentially contributes to the Dustgate problem.
Tech I want: folding portable monitor that is the size of a 16″ MacBook Pro when folded and ~24″ when open. Add a stand to lift it above the laptop display for a travel setup. Folding wear wouldn’t be a huge issue because you’d do it once a day at most.
— Christopher Ehrlich (@ccccjjjjeeee) November 8, 2023
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