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MacBook Flexgate issue and How To Fix It.

Updated: Jan 3, 2023

Though the MacBook excels in delivering a top-notch experience, it has had its own share of issues including display problems with several MacBook Pro models that has proved to be a nightmare for a large number of users.

Macbook flexgate issue
Macbook flexgate issue


What is Flexgate display?


Flexgate is the term used to describe a display problem with certain models of MacBook Pro caused by a faulty flex cable. Once the problem was diagnosed and public, the netizens were quick to dub it as Flexgate, as soon as the flex cable was identified as the main source of the problem. To resolve a MacBook pro flexgate issue, you must understand what the problem is before getting into the depth of thing.


What is the Possible Cause of the Flexgate Issue?



macbook 45 degree
macbook 45 degree

Though most modern versions of the MacBook Pro that have a 2mm longer display cables to get rid of this problem, some might still come up with technical snags due to thin and faulty cables. The affected MacBook models use thin and weak display flex cables. In such a scenario, the backlight cable usually breaks first, which results in various backlighting issues. It is also responsible for the complete failure of the display at times.


Which MacBook Pro Models are Affected?


Apple launched a redesigned MacBook Pro with an all-new flex cable in 2016. Therefore, the Flexgate issue appears to impact any 13 or 15-inch ‌MacBook Pro‌ models manufactured in 2016 and 2017 (sold between October 2016 and February 2018).


According to several reports, it has mostly impacted Touch Bar models. But last year, Apple installed additional silicone protection to solve their jamming issues and whether it really works or not needs to be seen or asked from people who’ve made recent purchases and yet require MacBook pro flexgate repair experts to attend to their new device.


These are the Late 2016 and Mid 2017 MacBook models.


This design flaw primarily afflicts the MacBook Pro 2016 and 2017 models. Both 13 inch and 15 inch models are affected.

A1707 - MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2016-17, Touchbar model)

A1706 - MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016-17, Touchbar model)

A1708 - MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016-17, non-Touchbar model)

Apple made a minor change in the 2018 model to circumvent this flex cable issue. Even a few 2018 & 2019 models suffer from it. Of course, the frequency of such issues is much lower now.


Is the Flexgate issue repairable? Yes, it is.


Well, the cable is integrated into the screen, so it cannot be swapped out. So, the standard resolution offered is to replace the entire display panel.

At Mac Infinity, however, we have recently launched the flexgate repair service. We extend the backlight flex cable by micro-soldering a small piece of replacement cable onto it. It is a highly specialized and sensitive repair. So far, the results have been very encouraging, and we've managed to save our clients a ton of money. By the way, this is also the change that Apple basically introduced in its 2018 MacBooks.

At Mac Infinity, you may even consider buying a used display panel salvaged from other dead MacBooks. It’s 100% genuine and quite cost-effective. Contact Us to discuss.




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