MacBook Pro 13" Display Repair: Flexgate & Co.

The display of a MacBook Pro 13-inch is a masterpiece of technology, but unfortunately also vulnerable to various damages. The notorious "Flexgate" problem in the 2016-2017 models, glass breakage from drops, or simply wear and tear – a faulty display significantly affects overall usage. We offer fast and professional replacement of the complete display unit.

A typical display damage on a MacBook Pro 13".

Common Display Problems We Fix

If your MacBook Pro shows any of these symptoms, our display repair is the solution:

• Flexgate / "Stage Light" Effect: An uneven, spotlight-like illumination at the bottom edge of the screen that leads to total failure when opening the lid beyond 90 degrees.
• Vertical Lines: Colorful or black lines that disturb the image.
• No Image or Black Screen: The Mac starts audibly, but the display remains black (backlight problem).
• Glass Breakage or Cracks: Visible damage to the display surface.
• Flickering Image: Irregular flickering, especially at certain angles.

The "Flexgate" Problem: A Detailed Explanation

The MacBook Pro 13" models from 2016 and 2017 are particularly known for the so-called "Flexgate" problem. The display cables are too short and are heavily stressed every time the MacBook is opened and closed.

Why Does This Happen?

• Cables Too Short: Apple designed the display cables too tightly
• Mechanical Stress: Every opening/closing stresses the cables
• Material Fatigue: Over time, the fine conductor tracks break
• Heat Development: Additional thermal stress worsens the problem

Typical Symptoms of Flexgate:

• Uneven illumination at the bottom display edge
• "Stage Light" effect (like stage spotlights)
• Complete display failure when opened beyond 90°
• Flickering when moving the display lid

The good news: Our repair permanently solves this problem, as we install the complete, improved display unit of the next generation.

Affected MacBook Pro 13" Models

We repair all MacBook Pro 13-inch models from 2016-2020:

🔧 2016-2017 Models (A1706, A1708)

• Particularly Affected: Flexgate problem
• Touch Bar & Non-Touch Bar: Both variants
• Repair Price: €480
• Upgrade: Improved display unit

🔧 2018-2020 Models (A1989, A2159, A2251, A2289)

• Improved Cables: Fewer Flexgate problems
• All Touch Bar Models: True Tone display
• Repair Price: €540
• Higher Resolution: Retina display with P3 color gamut

When Is Display Repair Worth It?

Display repair is the most economical solution in most cases:

✅ Repair Is Worth It For:

• Flexgate Problems: Permanently solved with new display unit
• Glass Breakage Without Other Damage: Rest of MacBook works
• Backlight Problems: Often cheaper than buying new
• Lines or Pixel Errors: Immediate improvement
• Paid Adobe Programs: When Adobe CS6, Creative Suite or other full versions are installed instead of expensive subscription models
• Important Data: When valuable projects, photos or documents are stored on the device

❌ Consider Alternatives For:

• Very Old Devices: When repair > 50% of device value
• Multiple Defects: Display + logic board + battery
• Water Damage: First repair logic board

Our Display Repair Process

We proceed systematically to make your MacBook Pro perfectly functional again:

1. Free Diagnosis: We check the exact defect and create a cost estimate
2. Professional Removal: Careful disassembly of the defective display unit
3. Quality Display: Installation of an original or equivalent display unit
4. Calibration: True Tone and color calibration (if available)
5. Comprehensive Tests: Function and quality check before handover

Prices for MacBook Pro 13" Display Repair

Our prices are transparent and include everything necessary:

💰 2016-2017 Models (A1706, A1708): €480

• Touch Bar & Non-Touch Bar models
• Permanently solves Flexgate problem
• New, improved display unit

💰 2018-2020 Models (A1989, A2159, A2251, A2289): €540

• All Touch Bar models
• True Tone display with P3 color gamut
• Higher resolution and better color representation

Included: New display unit, professional installation, internal cleaning and 12 months warranty on the repair.

Alternative: Display Cable Repair

In some cases, especially for pure Flexgate problems, a cable repair can be a more cost-effective alternative:

• Only for Flexgate: When the display itself is still intact
• Significantly Cheaper: Often €200-300 instead of €480-540
• Faster: Usually possible same day
• Risk: Not always permanent, as the basic problem remains

We advise you honestly which solution makes the most sense in your case. Find more information on our MacBook Display Repair page.

Tips for Preventing Display Damage

🛡️ Prevent Flexgate:

• Open/Close Gently: Avoid jerky movements
• Don't Open Beyond 90°: Especially important for 2016-2017 models
• Display Protection: Microfiber cloth between keyboard and display

🛡️ Avoid Glass Breakage:

• Protective Case: Padded bag for transport
• Careful Transport: Don't squeeze into full backpacks
• Clean Workspace: No hard objects on the keyboard