The Touch Bar generation of MacBook Pro always had its quirks, but the thin-at-all-cost design may finally be proving more trouble than it was ever worth. The latest issue to crop up—dubbed “flexgate” by one of our users, Alex—reveals that the compact design for the display’s flex cables is prone to fatigue and failure, leading to a host of display problems that can’t be easily (or cheaply) fixed.
Of course, any product produced at the scale of the MacBook Pro is bound to run into a few QC issues—that’s understandable, providing the company can own up to them and repair or replace the affected users’ machines. But for most of us, there’s a limit to how many unnecessary repairs we’ll put up with on an expensive “Pro” laptop. Problems like the keyboard (which has, thankfully, been at least slightly addressed by Apple), poor thermal performance, and questionable battery performance and lifespan point to a bigger picture: This MacBook Pro design is a bit too far on the form side of the line between form and function that Apple is known for walking so well.
With that bigger picture in mind, let’s address the latest problem—which, to me, is the nail in the coffin for these laptops.
None of the Lights
The issue is fairly simple: the current generation of MacBook Pro laptops (2016–present) uses flexible ribbon cables to connect the display to a display controller board beneath the Touch Bar. These cables wrap over the board, where they’re secured by a pair of spring-loaded covers—and they’re subjected to the stress of bending with every opening and closure of the laptop. Within a seemingly short time, those cables are starting to fatigue and tear. The backlight cable is generally the first to go, producing the infamous “stage light” symptoms, and eventually giving out entirely when the laptop is opened more than about 40°.
When it first debuted, the design seemed fine. But as always, the devil is in the details. Apple opted for thin, fragile flex cables as opposed to the beefier wire cables used in previous designs that could be routed through the hinge instead of wrapped around it, helping mitigate the stress of repeated openings and closings. But the bigger problem is that, in an apparent effort to make the display as thin as possible, Apple designed the cables as part of the display, so they cannot be replaced. This means that when (not if) those cables start to fail, the entire display unit needs to be replaced, as opposed to one or two little cables—effectively turning a $6 problem into a $600 disaster. Our good friend Louis Rossmann captured the problem on video; can you sense his frustration?
This problem is frustrating on multiple levels. It certainly feels like this could have been avoided entirely if so many sacrifices weren’t made for the thin-and-light form factor, and it definitely could have been avoided if Apple had just made the cables modular (which may be another thin-and-light compromise in its own right). Perhaps the most frustrating aspect is Apple’s slowness to acknowledge the problem and make amends with customers. A few determined folks have managed to get their local Genius Bar to replace their screen on Apple’s dime, but for now it seems that for every person who succeeds, many more are rejected—or simply end up paying for a new screen out of pocket without realizing how widespread the issue is. There are also multiple people who claim to have started threads on Apple’s support site only to have them deleted.
For now, the issue is only affecting the Touch Bar generation of MacBook Pro. The new MacBook Air doesn’t use the exact same display cable design, but it looks to have a similar vulnerability—its cables wrap over their display board, and appear to be part of the display. We’ll have to wait to see if they exhibit the same cable failure, but color us “not-surprised” if they do.
Alex has started a petition in which he “kindly ask[s] Apple to launch an extended warranty program addressed to this issue as soon as possible.” The petition is currently hovering around 2,000 signatures. If you are affected by this issue, or if you (like us) have passionate feelings about repair and how long a $7,000 laptop should last, let us know in the comments, give Apple some feedback, and add your name to the petition.
crwdns2944067:044crwdne2944067:0
We have two MacBook Pro Touch Bar laptop. Number one is the original late 2016 version (purchased 1/2017) and the other is the late 2018 version (purchase 9/2018). The screen cable failed after three month on the 2018 laptop - there was a delay in fixing it because I was told that replacement screens were not yet in the pipeline to the authorized repair services. It was fixed in February 2019. In June 2019 the 2016 laptop suffered the same display problem. Apple replaced the screen at no cost (it is still covered under AppleCare). A question is whether the replacement screen has the same cable as the original. Or did Apple “improve” the cable for these replacements?
J Michael Brown - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
Hello,
I got my screen replaced by Apple due to the StainGate problem on my 2016 Macbook Pro purchased on April 2017. I got it replaced on September 20th 2019 on apple’s dime. Then 7 months later, the replaced Screen suffered from the stretch gate issue! I am at the moment furious at apple that refuses to fix it due to the fact that they claim a 90-day warranty on replacement parts! Also.. stains have already started reappearing on the screen too!
So, judging by the fact that the flexgate is still an issue on the replacement screen and the fact that stains still appear on the screen.. no, apple uses the same problematic screens on their fixed laptops and they try to hide behind a 90-day warranty and get away with it. It’s scammy at best.
Alexandros Androutsos -
I have same issue on my MBP 15” 2017.
pizzaboy - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
the flexgate issue with my macbook pro touch bar 2016 happened today after 2 years of use.Thank you apple giving us a headache …i lost confidence to any future apple laptop they will be designing and will just get a heavier but reliable older 2012 macbook pro.
steve - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
Steve,
Check if the repair program is till up, because one or maybe two month ago I went to an apple store and they repair the problem for free under a repair program they had.
Now that mine is fixed the question I have is if they fix it putting the 2mm longer robin cable or they just replace it with the same short one it had at the begging. Still does not find anywhere that anwser…
Here is the link for the Service Program:
https://support.apple.com/13-inch-macboo...
Eric -
I also looking for the answer, someone found it?
Николай Кононенко -
My MBP 2016 has the flexgate issue and went completely black so I took it an Apple reseller to get it repaired under the program. But then I was told that replacing the screen did not solve the issue and I had to buy a small 52€ part (kind of a connector, I believe), days later I was told that both replacements did not fix the issue and that I may as well have to replace the motherboard !!! At this point I am quite concerned as it appeared that a few times already people had to change toe motherboard together with the screen……so looks like the fed gate issue is also affecting in some way the motherboard, but weird enough, on an external screen/monitor, my computer is working fine…….could it be possible to make a petition to find out how many people had to also change the motherboard and how come, if the computer works on an external screen ???
ecoline.france - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I have the same issue with my MBP touch bar 2017. Apple denied it and suggests me to pay for the repairing. Its very sad. I open thread on Apple https://discussions.apple.com/thread/250...
Sergey - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
Hello
I am a Japanese user. I had the same phenomenon with my 2017 macbook pro, but I contacted applestore and was told that it is only for the 2016 model. I am very sad and angry. I was told to wait silently, as apples may be included in the target model in due time. We have to speak up.
Takehiko Kudo -
Hello I have the same issue. The issue of my mbp 15” 2018 came when I processed a big data using tableau. my mbp sometimes auto restart and everytime the my mbp become sleep and I did relogin the touchbar become blank. All option to fixed the issue have already done. Last month after upgraded to mac os catalina the touchbar become normal. However only 3 minutes. The question is if I send my mbp to apple service center and change the full LED or other option, could I expect my mbp’s touchbar become normal or not back to blank after that? Thanks
Eddy Gunawan - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I used to be a computer teacher & was given a used powerbook & within a month it had monitor issues & ultimately would only work if I put a clamp on the area where the ribbon cable was faulty until it finally quit altogether.
Our child bought a macbook pro for college. Now, barely after 2 years with this nearly $1500 machine, it too has a monitor cable issue.
We made an appointment at the apple store (closest one over an hour away) and were told would be a $500 fix plus more if any additional problems were found. So we purchased a new macbook pro due to the urgency. Coincidentally the man beside us at the apple store table had the EXACT SAME MACBOOK MONITOR ISSUE with his college daughter’s macbook pro. “Stage lights” a few days or weeks then no backlight at all especially if you open it more than half way.
Since, I am now livid! After contacting a few 3rd party apple repair shops & searching the internet I discover this is a KNOWN ISSUE. No mention from the Apple Store employee. No accountability from apple.
Chuck - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
Same problem is incurring in my macbook pro 13’ 2017 model. I do not under stand what to do. First the keyboard now the display, I cant imagine what else apple wants to give us in a single product does it not feel bad for its customers.
Saif Azam - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I have a 2 inch flickering stripe on the left side of my display (MBP 15”, 2018) since 2 days. Could this be a Flexgate issue as well?
kandykan - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
My MBP 2018 has just had this issue, its only just turned 2 years old and the screen display cables have already gone. I’ve just been sent a quote from the Service Provider and it’s f^%# ridiculous. Half the price of buying a new machine! Typically another way Apple designs their products to rape our pockets! My last MBP went from working perfectly fine to being thrown in the bin as the repair was more expensive than buying a new one… so this is my 2nd MBP headed for the trash after spending an absolute fortune on something that doesn’t last at ALL!! I’m honestly TIRED of the iPhones and Apple computers that have so many issues, they’re fragile and have very short life-spans and Apple shows no interest in sorting it out. Their products are designed to make you PAY and feel like you can’t live without them.
I for one have reached my final tether with Apple products, I can live without them and save myself a lot of money and trouble.
Brad - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I bought two MacBook Pro’s for me and my son in fall of 2016. Mine started feeling month ago and now I only have a black screen. My sons MacBook is failing occasionally. I have made trips to Genie bar, called Apple Support and called head office with diagnostic report proving a point. So far I’ve heard from technicians that it is well known problem out there but Apple doesn’t want to own it. I told them that any other company would do recall. I know it is a design issue where cable and screen are one part. I strongly feel that if more people will come up to Apple Then we may have a case.
Finally to Apple personal, please do not delete this comment as it is factual.
Regards Mark
Mark Biskupski - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I am using 2018 pro 13 inch screen. As predicted in the article by the author, I became the victim of touch bar display after couple of days of warranty period.
I went to the seller as well as to the service centre, who expressed their inability to do any repair. How frustrating this could be???
So, anyone buying Apple 2018 MacBook, please be aware of this issue and then decide. Good luck
mushfiqur04 - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I have a 2016 15 inch Mac Book Pro, my screen suddenly turned pink. In December 2019, my hard drive died. The repair cost $ 1,118 (can). We do not have an APPLE accredited repairer in our region. We're still talking about a repair over $ 1,000 here. The nearest store is a 3-hour drive away. It's INCREDIBLE ... Apple told me they didn't want to make a repair exception for my screen. I called for consumer protection and I filed a complaint against APPLE.
benoitlavoie - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
It is incredible!
Apple, you know that you have a problem and you want me to pay for fix your known problem.
This is a bad joke!
Borja ordonez García - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I have the same issue on my 13” MacBook Pro touch bar late 2016. Unfortunately, it went completely black in April this year, right when everything was closed. I’ve been using my TV as a monitor for the past few months, but really need to get this fixed! :/
Liz - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I have the same issue! Will Apple fix this problem? What is the best course of action? I don’t want to have to spend $700 to fix this thing.
Joe Anderson - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
If making the cable 2mm longer is a (possible) fix, then isn’t this also a case of colossally bad engineering? (Unless it was *intentional* on Apple’s part..) Is there a reason why they couldn’t have used the older, “through-the-hinge” (TTH) method? I’m guessing (ONLY guessing) that the TTH wire is serial whereas a ribbon cable is parallel, so bandwidth might be higher (but would you have nasty timing sync problems for parallel?)
One of the “big new things” for the new MBPs were injection-molded-hinges, right? Is it less possible to use a TTH with a molded hinge? But I have NO idea how automated manufacture of either works. (*)
(*) I’d *really* hate to think there is some poor “second/third-world” person spending their days threading little wires through little hinge holes.. I assume they have a robot to do it.
jimwitte - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
And does making that cable 2mm longer affect the outer dimensions (the Jony-Ive-”GOTTA-BE-THIN!!!!” obsession) AT ALL? If not, it’s doubly stupid of Apple. (or intentional..)
Could computer makers use ultra-short range wireless (>10 GHz?) in the future for laptops?
jimwitte -
I’m commenting in case there are more people experiencing the same issue.
The camera cable is also affected by Flexgate, since the same type of cable was used for both the LED backlight and the camera. This is shown by image no. 2 in this article.
Unfortunately, the service program only covers the replacement cost if the backlight cable is broken, not the camera cable.
Obviously, it’s less troublesome with the camera not functioning, than the display. However, I think Apple should include it as well in the service program.
This post on the Apple Community site shows how it looks when the cable is broken.
https://discussions.apple.com/thread/251...
Andreas - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
First my Macbook had the issue with the keyboard and now one more later the issue with the flex cables.
Living in Indonesia the Apple service is even worse than elsewhere I guess. Yesterday I checked with the local Apple partner, they want to keep my Macbook for one week to confirm the issue and then most likely 4-6 weeks to fix the problem. Meaning 2 Month which I cant use my 2000$ device. Last time I left my MacBook there for the keyboard issue the 6 weeks became almost 8. No place where you can intervene or speed up the process…
And then they still call them selves customer service…
As Apple is aware of the issue, a better and faster service would be much more appropriate…
Peter - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
o have the same problem!
besides that there was a problem with the keyboard, and a full battery! Remember Apple for the keyboard ... they changed the topcase! But said the screen was friction of dirt and dust that damaged the cable !
I have another Mac Pro 13 Portrait 2010! Which is used in the same environment, and in 10 years it has never been a problem!
how can you give this problem on a 2017 Mac? What cable is that? Even because the product is to open and close! I read about several other people having this problem too! There's even recall already for 13”/2017! But there is no pro 15 ”! I just know what to do!
I'm sure the problem is with the cable! Manufacturing defect! Or suddenly it was even transmitted by the stuffing of the battery ... when I took it to watch the screen it didn't close completely!
viviane.a.macedo - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I have both the backlight issue (noticed more recently) and my camera not working on my MBP 2016. If I send it in for replacement of the backlight issue, would that also fix the camera issue?
Erica Hwang - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
Hi everybody, I live in Switzerland and I can’t find information here about this “flexgate”. My MacBook Pro, baught in May 2018, makes some strange lines on the screen, horizontal black, or sometimes white lines, superpositions of différents images, always with entire or part lines. Here, Apple ask me almost 800 dollars to have my laptop repaired even if the warranty expired 5 months ago… Do you thinks these problems might be linked to the “flexgate” issue ? When I close my laptop at 25° the images are clean again… and when I open it normally, the lines are coming back… Thanks for your help !
Valerie Amos - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
Hello, I’m in possession of a 2018 Macbook Pro 13” with four thunderbolt ports and experience the same trouble.
Yet, apple’s service program (in Europe/Germany) does not cover any other models than the 13” 2016 two and four thunderbolt port versions. I am sure there are more people with different models (like my 2018 13”) experiencing the same issue. Is there currently any petition going on or are there any testers who can check/checked, whether apple actually tried to -> really <- fix the issue in its other models (particularly the 2018 13” four thunderbolt model)? I don’t see why I should pay 600€ for their mess up and am desperate for help! :( Edit: I wrote the text before I signed up, so only now I’m seeing the rest of the comments. Apparently a lot of other MBP 13” 2018 users experience the same problem! Is there any petition or other action going on against apple?
sadappleuser - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
MBP 13” 2017 Same problem - display is black once opened past 40-45 degrees. Computer works connecting to a separate monitor .
Kelly Lothringer - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I have been using apple products since I can remember, probably 1986 with some of the first Apple computers. And I am so angry that I am seriously thinking of changing to a PC! Yesterday, while I was hitting the space bar and H keys on my Mac book Pro 13” 2017, because of their already intensely annoying keyboard issue, the screen went black. I had seen a few days earlier the stage light effect and had no idea what it was. Now I know. Another incredibly irresponsible design defect by Apple. This computer was worth about 3000$ and they cannot do something that actually lasts? It is also the fourth Macbook I have that has a sudden death after 3, max 4 years. Last one it was the GPU, which is known for separating from the motherboard when overheating, also a flaw that apple does not recognize and seems unable to fix
Johanna Goncalves - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I have the same issue with my 2017 MacBook Pro and Apple said they will not take responsibility for this. I have sent them an official complaint letter but if that fails then I believe civil action needs to take place on a global level.
contact - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
Has anyone had this issue fixed by apple?
D J - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I think someone needs to start a class action. This is beyond unacceptable
Al Pl - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
Here’s my little story…
My 15” MBP 2017 started having this same issue, the screen stays black, unless I open it very slowly than it turns on but goes black again if opened more than about 45%.
I took it to the apple store and they told me I need a new display unit, after telling them I know the display is fine and that it is the flexgate that’s broken they agreed to take it in for a flexgate cable replacement! I got a repair quote (51.14$ for the cable, 79$ for the job + Tax) and was very happy… but… the next day I got an email saying I should get in touch with the store for some important information about my repair, I called and they said they put the new cable in and it didn’t fix the problem and that they put back the old flexgate cable!
This is such a lie! they simply didn’t do anything, they didn’t even try replacing the cable, the MBP came back exactly as I gave it to them :( no marks of any job done on the screen, the broken flexgate just as it was.
Ofer Tiberin - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
My 15” also has this exact problem. Just came back from an apple store. Told me that they needed to replace the monitor (more than $600+) . I mentioned this site to him. He just said for 13”, it is a defect and apple would fix it, but not for 15”. Really speechless… it is the same defects!!
Peter - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I had the stage light issue for a few months and the display packed in completely this week. So disappointed in Apple for not including us 2017 MBP owners. Clearly a huge design flaw.
Jamie Brightmore - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
Mine, a 2016 MBP TB 15” failed two months ago. Apple has replaced also the keyboard twice and the battery once. The BT module failed after the second keyboard replacement and they refused to acknowledge it was their doing.
Eyvind Mondragon - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
Deficient quality and manufacturing defect on Apple Macbook Pro.
My 2017 Macbook Pro, bought in 2019, is 2 years and 3 months old (just out of legal warranty) when it comes to the famous “flexgate” disease. This hardware defect is well known to Apple on the 2016 Macbook Pro, but not recognized on the 2017 model (like mine). However, this is the same hidden defect (abnormal wear or programmed obsolescence?) This abnormal wear comes from the cable that connects the screen to the keyboard: it was originally installed too short (what Apple therefore recognizes for the models from 2016). After a certain number of opening - closing, it relaxes and causes these disturbances. The small video shows the effects of this problem. You may know of people with a Macbook Pro that has this conformity or fitment defect. More we are, Apple will be forced to recognize it ... (sorry, it’s a googled english)
Dany Marique - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I am a macbook pro user from Japan, and I have the exact same problem described here with my wife’s Macbook pro 2017 13 inch. The display has ‘stagelight’ effect, and the camera is no longer detected. Sometimes WIFI troubles as well.
I spoke to Apple agent today on the phone, who quoted me around 500 USD for repair. I told him this is a known design flaw and flexgate. He did not even comment on this, but asked me to take it to an authorised repair service center where they will look at it.
So he just passed the decision to someone else. Really weak!
I am going to print out a some articles about flexgate and take them there for my appointment. I do know that the 2017 version is NOT covered by Apple’s repair program even though it is exactly the same construction flaw as the 2016 version. So pathetic, and I am very frustrated this happens to a 2200 USD purchase. Any tips for me on what I need to emphasize or say when going to the authorised service center?
Simon - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
Tell them that you have a cousin in the Mafia :)
No, but seriously this is so wrong. 2016 and 2017 A1706/08 all use exactly the same screen. 2016 is covered but not 2017. Even 2016/17 A1707 15 inch have the same backlight flex cable design but are not covered at all. See Louis Rossmann’s thoughts here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tD3yhK5L... In the interest of full disclosure, I am Pedro1475 (usually Pedro147)
Peter Newman -
The biggest question is more how we can "safe" the still working displays.. I was thinking to ad two tape on both sides ob the flex-cables to make them more robust. On never generation Apple used thicker flex-cable..
Other question: Whats the real function of the spring loader cover? In my eyes it's only an unneeded element to stretch the cable.. but if Apple engineers aded this expensive spring-loader cover it probably does have a function..
Nils - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
We have two top of the line MBP 2017 fastest chip, maxed ram, largest ssd, and two dead screens. Tim Cooks answer to Apple making mistakes...call lawyers and make sure you &&^& the customers.
I cannot imagine a scenario where we will ever trust Apple to make a laptop with a screen. I suspect Jony Ive leaving Apple and then cutting all ties with Apple has to do with them not fixing a clear design problem.
I make posts about this all the time and recommend everyone do the same.
We have a 2011 MBP that works flawlessly and oddly, the 2011 connects to our LG screen at 60 Hz but the 6 year NEWER MBP only 30 hertz. One more case of Apple giving you less for more.
Goddess Germanika - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
My husband thinks a bridge can be made using clean ribbon and clamps like the plug but just clamping the ribbon. If the clamps are small enough this would be a fix.
Goddess Germanika - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0
I have a MacBook Pro 15-inch 2017 model with touch bar. I just had a problem with my computer here in Brazil.
The screen began to show a defect in the lower part with a very thin white line, after that stains appeared in the lower left part as if the screen was broken and finally several colored lines appeared vertically across the entire left part until the center of the screen.
gledsonaugusto - crwdns2934203:0crwdne2934203:0