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Apple Service Programs Extended – Flexgate and Staingate

Because Apple isn’t perfect, and although they sometimes have to be dragged kicking and screaming, they do often pony up and do the right thing. There are always a number of active service programs, and a couple of important ones were recently extended. 

Apple Service Program – Staingate

service programs staingate

In 2015 some users started to notice nasty markings on their LCD on their Retina MacBook Pros and MacBooks. Turns out the borked the coatings on these LCD’s and the keyboard would mark the screen, scarring it for life. After the much-justified uproar, Apple conceded and agreed to replace affected models. 

They extended the program in 2017, and it appears they have done it again… although not exactly officially. Usually, service programs are listed on their site, but this one has been dealt with on a case by case basis. Furthermore, reports are that it’s only being done in the United States. BUT, I’m calling on all staingate sufferers to fight! If you have the issue, call up Apple Canda and tell them you know that this issue is still being covered in the US, and demand they do it as well! 

Apple Service Program – Flexgate

service programs stagelights

Back in 2016, several people noticed an odd lighting issue with their MacBook Pro screens, it looked like old-times stagelights were shining up! It was an issue with the cable connecting the logic board and display being too short, and Apple covered it for quite some time, also refunding people who had been charged for the repair. 

Go to your Apple menu, click on About This Mac and check the name. The eligible models are:

  • MacBook Pro (13-­inch, 2016, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
  • MacBook Pro (13-­inch, 2016, Two Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

The program has now been extended for 5 years from the original purchase date. 

Getting Service

If you are experiencing either of these issues, start by visiting the support site and book a genius bar appointment. Oh, and DON’T FORGET TO BACKUP YOUR DATA. Contact us and let us know if you managed to get Apple Canada to cover your staingate issue!

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Ryszard (Rick) Gold, From Calgary, Alberta, Canada has over 20 years of experience working with Apple products in a technical capacity. Passionate about technology in general, his natural troubleshooting abilities, curiosity and appreciation of good design lead him into working exclusively with Apple Computer products.
Ryszard Gold
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