One of the most common issues affecting the MacBook Pro 13-inch 2017 model is a factory defect related to the backlight. This issue typically manifests when the MacBook lid is opened beyond 90 degrees, causing the backlight to turn off, rendering the screen dark. However, when the lid is positioned at 90 degrees or less, the backlight functions normally. This defect is known as the “Flexgate” issue, which stems from the structural weakness of the backlight flex cable.
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I have a macbook pro 13″ mid-2017 A1708 here of a customer who dropped it off because the screen wouldn’t turn on but keyboard does light up. First thing I did was hold up a flashlight to the screen and it turns out it does show image but backlight is not turning on, no matter the angle of the screen.
Causes of the Backlight Issue
The root cause of this defect is the excessive wear and tear of the flex cable over time. Unlike previous MacBook models that utilized a more durable ribbon cable, the MacBook Pro 13-inch 2017 employs two delicate backlight flex cables. These cables connect the main LCD board to the logic board, making them susceptible to mechanical stress. Repeated opening and closing of the MacBook Pro 13-inch 2017 over time place strain on these cables, eventually leading to cracks or complete breaks in the conductive rails. This interruption prevents power and data transmission to the backlight, causing the display to malfunction.
Diagnosing the Problem
To accurately diagnose the issue, we conduct a thorough inspection of both flex cables to determine which one is damaged. The most common failure point is the second flex cable, which often develops a crack, resulting in the loss of power to the backlight. Once the issue is identified, the best solution is to repair or replace the damaged section of the flex cable.
Step-by-Step Repair Process
- Disassembling the LCD Panel
The first step is to carefully remove the LCD panel to gain access to the backlight flex cables. Special tools are used to ensure precision and to avoid additional damage to the display. - Preparing the Damaged Flex Cable
We identify the damaged section of the flex cable, carefully cut it out, and remove the protective black covering to expose the conductive rails for repair. - Preparing the New Flex Cable
A replacement flex cable is prepared by trimming it to the appropriate size, ensuring a perfect fit for the repair process. - Soldering the Replacement Section
The new flex cable is carefully aligned with the old one, and the conductive rails are soldered together using specialized micro-soldering techniques to maintain a strong electrical connection. - Securing with Super Glue
To reinforce the connection, we apply a small amount of super glue to hold the flex cables in place, preventing shifting during the repair process. - Exposing the Conductive Rails
Using precision tools, we remove the black mask from the new flex cable to expose the conductive paths necessary for establishing a secure electrical connection. - Jumper Wire Soldering
Fine jumper wires are used to bridge the connections between the old and new flex cables. For power rails, thicker wires are used to ensure proper current flow and prevent overheating issues. - Applying UV Masking for Insulation
After the soldering is completed, a UV mask is applied to insulate the repaired section. The UV coating is then dried thoroughly to protect the connection from external damage. - Final Assembly and Testing
Once the repair is secured, we carefully reassemble the LCD panel and conduct thorough testing. The backlight is tested at various lid angles to ensure it functions correctly at all positions, including beyond 90 degrees.
my Macbook no backlight, screen functions normally my Macbook
MacBook models that utilized a more durable ribbon cable, the MacBook Pro 13-inch 2017 employs two delicate backlight flex cables. These cables connect the main LCD board to the logic board, making them susceptible to mechanical stress
Conclusion
With the repair successfully completed, the MacBook Pro 13-inch 2017 model is fully restored to optimal functionality. The backlight issue is resolved, eliminating the need for an expensive LCD replacement and extending the lifespan of the device.
If you are experiencing a similar backlight problem with your MacBook Pro 13-inch 2017, we offer expert repair services to restore your device efficiently. Contact us today for professional MacBook screen and backlight repairs. Stay updated with our latest tech solutions and feel free to leave any questions in the comments—we’re happy to help!
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