Apple MacBook Pro users are complaining of a new display issue on their laptops. First reported by Forbes, citing iCorrect, the issue is being called Dustgate by the repair specialists. According to the report, the issue is affecting MacBook Pro models sold between 2018 and 2020 including A1989, A2251, A2289, A2338, and A2141 models. It seems that these models have a faulty flex cable design that collects dirt and debris. It then gets damaged by opening and closing over the years. There are several reports on Reddit as well as Apple Community forums by users complaining about the issue. Let’s take a look at what Apple MacBook Pro Dustgate is and its effect on affected MacBook Pro models.
Apple MacBook Pro Users Are Facing Critical Dustgate Issue That Damages Display
As mentioned before, Dustgate is affecting users of the MacBook Pro models released between 2018 and 2020. According to the repair specialist quoted by Forbes, the issue is more common than we think and there are several cases in a week. The MacBook Pros plagued with Dustgate show purple vertical lines on screen when the lid is open at a certain angle.
This is happening because of the faulty flex cable connecting the display to the main body of the laptop. The gap between the display and body at the hinge point collects dust and debris, which then falls on the flex cable with the opening and closing of the lid, and damages it. Since the issue is the damaged flex cable, the solution is to simply replace the flex cable.
But the solution is not as easy as it appears to be. According to Ricky Panesar, founder of repair specialist iCorrect, the flex cable is connected to the back of the display. In order to replace it, specialists have to remove the screen from the outer shell without damaging it and then remove the flex cable, which is a risky process. According to the specialists, the best thing to do is to replace the entire display unit. However, if the user doesn’t have Apple Care coverage, it could easily cost upward of $625 or ~Rs 52,000.
The Forbes report claims that if you have a MacBook Pro from 2021 or newer, you need not worry about Dustgate. Apple seems to have used more protection for the flex cable in newer models. However, those who have the older models have to ensure that their laptops are cleaned regularly and rigorously to prevent any buildup.
