The MacBook has long been esteemed for its sleek design, powerful performance, and an ecosystem that works seamlessly for both casual users and professionals. However, not all has been smooth sailing for Apple’s flagship laptops. One major issue that has plagued certain models is something known as Flexgate. If you’ve ever opened your MacBook only to be met with a flickering or completely dead screen, you may have unknowingly encountered this problem.
In this article, we’ll explore what MacBook Flexgate is, what causes it, how to identify whether your device is affected, and more importantly, how to fix it. Whether you’re an Apple devotee or just someone facing an unfortunate screen issue, this guide is designed to inform and assist you.
What Is Flexgate?
Flexgate is a term coined by the Apple community to describe a display issue primarily affecting certain MacBook Pro models. The issue typically manifests as a dim or non-functioning screen, often showcased through a “stage light” effect—a series of uneven backlights at the bottom of the screen—when the lid is opened beyond a certain angle.
The root cause lies in the flex cables that connect the display to the logic board. These thinner and more fragile cables, introduced in the 2016 redesign of the MacBook Pro, are prone to wear and eventual failure due to their constant bending during normal opening and closing of the laptop lid.
Unlike previous models where the cables were detachable, Apple integrated these flex cables into the display. This makes the repair more expensive since it often requires replacing the entire display assembly.
What Models Are Affected?
The Flexgate issue has been officially recognized in the following models:
- MacBook Pro 13-inch (2016–2017)
- MacBook Pro 15-inch (2016–2017)
However, some users have reported similar symptoms in newer models as well, although to a much lesser extent. The 2018 and newer models introduced slightly longer flex cables to address this issue, but residual cases may still occur depending on usage habits.
Common Symptoms of Flexgate
Here are the tell-tale signs that your MacBook may be suffering from Flexgate:
- Stage light effect: A spotlight-like pattern at the bottom of the display.
- Screen flickering: Intermittent changes in brightness or screen blackout.
- Screen shuts off at certain angles: When you open the lid past a certain angle, the display turns off or malfunctions.
- Complete screen failure: The display may eventually go completely black, rendering the laptop unusable.
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, it’s likely the flex cables inside your machine are starting to fray or break.
Why Did This Happen?
The Flexgate issue stems from a design decision made by Apple in their 2016 MacBook Pro redesign. To make the laptop thinner, they opted to use thinner flex cables and eliminated the safer connector-based mechanism. Here’s why that led to problems:
- Wear and Tear: Every time you open and close your MacBook, the flex cables bend slightly. After hundreds or even thousands of cycles, these cables begin to weaken.
- Insufficient Cable Length: The cables were made too short, increasing the stress each time the laptop lid is opened, especially at wider angles.
- Integrated Cables: Since the cables are part of the display, you cannot replace just the damaged cable. This makes repair costly and complicated.
Apple’s Official Response
After users flooded online communities, repair shops, and even filed class-action lawsuits, Apple eventually acknowledged the issue—though only partially. In 2019, the company launched the MacBook Pro Display Backlight Service Program, covering eligible 13-inch MacBook Pro models manufactured in 2016 under a four-year repair extension.
If you’re facing this issue on a 15-inch MacBook or newer unlisted models, you’re unfortunately not covered by this program and may have to explore third-party repair or fund an expensive screen replacement yourself.
How to Fix MacBook Flexgate
There are several options for addressing this issue, depending on your model, warranty status, and DIY appetite.
1. Apple’s Free Service Program
The simplest solution—if you’re eligible—is to take your MacBook to an Apple Store or an authorized repair center. Apple will replace the entire screen assembly at no cost if your laptop falls under their service program.
2. Out-of-Warranty Screen Replacement
If your device is not covered by Apple’s fix program, a common solution is to have the screen replaced entirely. This can cost anywhere from $400 to $700, depending on location and service provider. Be sure to get a diagnosis from a certified technician first.
3. Flex Cable Extension Repair
Some third-party repair services offer a more cost-effective solution by installing a longer flex cable or adding an extension. This fixes the issue without replacing the entire display assembly. The cost is generally lower—around $100 to $250—and offers a fairly reliable solution.
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4. DIY Repair
For the brave and tech-savvy, there are DIY kits and tutorials available online. However, this option is not recommended for most users since the procedure involves delicate disassembly and soldering. If done incorrectly, it may worsen the damage or void the product’s warranty entirely.
Preventative Measures
If your MacBook is currently functioning fine but falls into the affected model range, there are a few precautions you can take:
- Open your laptop gently: Try not to yank it open all the way to 180 degrees.
- Limit frequent opening/closing: If you’re using your MacBook in one place, leave it open to avoid unnecessary cable wear.
- Use a monitor when possible: Connecting to an external monitor reduces reliance on the internal display.
Always back up your data regularly, just in case the screen fails without warning.
Is It Worth Fixing?
If the rest of the computer is in excellent shape, fixing the Flexgate issue is usually worthwhile. Many users successfully get years of further usage after repairs. However, if the device is aging or has additional hardware problems, it might be more economical to put that money toward a newer model with better design improvements.
Moving Forward: Has Apple Learned from Flexgate?
Apple has reportedly improved internal designs by reintroducing slightly longer flex cables and, more recently, returning to the mini-LED display in the newest MacBook Pros which seems to eliminate the weak cable routing entirely. Today’s models are far less likely to experience this issue.
That said, Flexgate remains a cautionary tale about the consequences of form-over-function design choices. It has raised awareness of potential design flaws and encouraged more transparency from manufacturers.
Conclusion
While undeniably frustrating, the MacBook Flexgate issue is well-documented and fixable. Whether you opt for a professional repair, take advantage of Apple’s free service program, or explore third-party services, you do have options. Recognizing the symptoms early and taking prompt action can save you a lot of time and money.
If you’re buying a used MacBook or still using a 2016–2017 model, be vigilant. Know the signs, take precautions, and you’ll extend the life of your device far beyond what a faulty cable might suggest.
Do you think your MacBook is experiencing Flexgate? Hopefully now, you not only know what it is but how to fix it effectively.
Published on October 21, 2025 under .
