GPU Error, can I replace motherboard?

Yes, you can replace the logic board with a better one! I’m banging on a 2011 that now has a 2012 logic board right now! It’s not overly hard as long as you take care not to force things.

Here’s a listing of the needed part from one source: The Book Yard UK - MacBook Pro 2012 logic boards As you can see they are about $500 USD.

Here’s the guide to replace it MacBook Pro 15" Unibody Late 2011 Logic Board Replacement

The question you need to ask your self is this system offer what I need? Its still the most expandable & repairable MacBook Apple ever made! Yes, it does have its limitations! As it doesn’t have the newest Thunderbolt interface or offer support for more than 16 GB of RAM. and its still has an older GPU. So I wouldn’t use it to create the next Star War’s movie or design the most powerful super computer! But for most people its more than enough! I have a more powerful 2013 Mac Pro and 2015 15” retina for my photography.