Apple Announces 2011 (Mostly) MacBook Pro Repair Extension Program for Video Issues

Apple says it has determined, no doubt assisted by more than three years of user forum reports, that a “small percentage” of MacBook Pro systems, mostly 2011 models but potentially any of these machines sold between February 2011 and December 2013, may exhibit faulty video symptoms that may include distorted or scrambled video on the computer screen; no video on the computer screen (or external display) even though the computer is on; or the computer may restart unexpectedly. The issues are wdely attributed to defective AMD graphics processor units with faulty lead-free soldering that causes short circuiting and other issues.

Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider will repair affected MacBook Pro systems, free of charge. See below for details on affected models and service options beginning February 20, 2015 in the U.S. and Canada and February 27, 2015, in other countries.

Products affected include 15-inch and 17-inch MacBook Pro models manufactured in 2011, and
15-inch MacBook Pro with R etina models manufactured from mid 2012 to early 2013

Apple has posted a “Check your Coverage” tool (see link below) on the Apple Support site to determine if your MacBook Pro model matches the list of affected products below.

Affected Models
MacBook Pro (15-inch Early 2011)
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2011)
MacBook Pro (Retina, 15-inch, Mid 2012)
MacBook Pro (17-inch Early 2011)
MacBook Pro (17-inch Late 2011)
MacBook Pro (Retina, 15 inch, Early 2013)

Apple says that if your MacBook Pro is not experiencing any of these symptoms and is not one of the products affected, you do not need to contact Apple.

Options for service for eligible machines that are otherwise in working order include:

Carry-in

Bring your MacBook Pro to a participating provider – Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider.

A technician will run a diagnostic test on the MacBook Pro to verify eligibility.

Repair turn around time will vary based upon parts and technician availability.

You will be notified when your MacBook Pro is ready for pickup.

Mail-in

Call Apple and request a postage paid box to send your MacBook Pro to the local Apple Repair Center.

A technician will run a diagnostic test on your MacBook Pro to verify eligibility.

The repair process takes approximately 5-7 days from the time your MacBook Pro is received at the repair center until it is returned to you.

After it has been serviced, your MacBook Pro will be returned to you by mail.

Apple is also contacting customers who paid for a repair either though Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider to arrange reimbursement. If you have not been contacted, but paid for a repair that you think was due to this issue, contact Apple.

The program covers affected MacBook Pro models until February 27, 2016 or three years from its original date of sale, whichever provides longer coverage for you.

For more information, visit:
http://www.apple.com/support/macbookpro-videoissues/

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