It can be frustrating when your MacBook screen develops light spots or patches. This issue is usually caused by pressure damage or a manufacturing defect in the display panel. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the common causes of light spots on a MacBook screen and how to fix them.
What causes light spots on a MacBook screen?
Here are the most common reasons you may see light patches or spots on your MacBook’s display:
- Pressure damage – If something presses against the screen, it can damage the LCD display underneath and cause light spots. Common culprits include the keyboard and trackpad when closing the lid, objects in a bag pressing against the closed MacBook, and excessive pressure when cleaning the screen.
- Manufacturing defects – Some light spots or patches can occur due to defects in the LCD panel itself. This may happen when the liquid crystal layer has impurities or the backlight layer is uneven. Manufacturing issues tend to show up soon after purchasing a new MacBook.
- Delamination – On older MacBook models, the anti-glare coating can start to peel off or delaminate. This separates the display layers and allows light to scatter, creating whitish patches and spots.
- Cracked LCD – Severe impacts or pressure on the screen can cause internal cracks in the LCD glass or panel. This allows light to escape through the cracks, again leading to bright spots.
- Fluid damage – Liquid getting inside your MacBook, even a small amount, can damage the LCD and backlight. It causes light diffusion and bleed in localized areas.
How do I confirm the cause of light spots on my MacBook screen?
To get to the root of the issue, inspect your MacBook screen carefully. Here are tips to identify what’s causing the spots:
- Examine the location – Damage-related light spots often occur near the edges, corners, and hinges where pressure is most likely applied. Manufacturer defects create more random patterns.
- Check when it started – If the spots started right out of the box, it points to a manufacturing defect. Gradual appearance over time hints at delamination.
- Look for cracks – Carefully inspect for any cracks or damage in the glass, which cause severe light bleed.
- Consider recent damage – Drops, impacts, or pressure on a bag can cause damage that leads to light spots emerging later.
- Review warranty and repair history – Delamination or fluid damage is more common on older, well-worn MacBooks.
Additionally, connect your MacBook to an external display. If the light patches persist on the external monitor, it indicates an issue with the graphics chip or logic board rather than just the built-in display.
Fixing light spots due to external damage
If the spots are caused by external damage, here are a few repair options:
- Apply pressure gently – If a pressure point caused new light spots, massaging the area gently may fix it. Don’t press too hard and risk cracking the panel.
- Replace display panel – For cracks, heavy pressure damage or delamination, replacing the LCD panel itself often solves the problem.
- Replace display assembly – With severe cracks or damage, a full front display assembly replacement may be needed. This also replaces the glass and bezel.
- Use a matte screen protector – Adding an anti-glare, matte screen protector can hide mild delamination patches and diffuse light.
User-replaceable parts like films and protectors provide cheaper fixes. But for more advanced display repairs, you’ll need professional help. Apple does not endorse DIY display repairs which can void your warranty.
Fixing light spots due to manufacturing defects
For brand new MacBooks with light spot issues, here are troubleshooting steps before considering a repair or replacement:
- Update macOS – Get the latest macOS updates which may fix display driver issues causing bright patches.
- Calibrate display colors – Go to System Preferences > Displays > Color and calibrate the screen. This resets brightness and contrast uniformity.
- Run Apple Diagnostics – This checks your Mac for hardware issues like display problems. Restart and hold D on boot to run it.
- Reset SMC and NVRAM – Reset the System Management Controller and non-volatile RAM, which manages display functions.
If the problem persists, contact Apple Support within the 1-year limited warranty period. They can run remote diagnostics to confirm a display defect. If verified, Apple will offer a free in-warranty repair or display replacement in most cases.
When do I need to replace the display due to light spots?
Here are signs it may be time to replace your MacBook’s display assembly due to excessive light spot issues:
- Spots appeared out of the box or within the warranty period
- Software fixes, SMC/NVRAM resets did not resolve it
- Apple Diagnostics detects a display hardware issue
- Large number of patches across the screen
- Spots are noticeably impairing display visibility
- Underlying crack or damage caused the spots
Replacing just the LCD panel can fix spots in some cases. But with cracks or damage to the glass, bezel, or cables, a full display assembly replacement is better. Apple Authorized Service Providers can do this reliably.
How much does MacBook display replacement cost?
MacBook display replacement costs vary by model, where you get it fixed, and your warranty coverage:
| MacBook Model | Apple Out-of-Warranty Cost | AppleCare+ Screen Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| MacBook Air 13″ | $500 | $99 |
| MacBook Pro 13″ | $500 – $600 | $99 |
| MacBook Pro 15″ | $700 | $99 |
| MacBook Pro 16″ | $700 – $800 | $99 |
Third-party and DIY repairs can lower costs but come with big risks of damaging components or losing True Tone, Face ID, and Touch Bar functions. Get an estimate before approving any repair.
How to prevent light spots on the MacBook screen
To help avoid light spots developing, be gentle with the MacBook screen and avoid these common causes of damage:
- Don’t place pressure and avoid touching the screen itself.
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth when cleaning the screen.
- Don’t overpack your laptop bag or backpack.
- Don’t lift or carry your MacBook by the screen.
- Avoid blows, drops or accidents that hit the display.
- Keep the MacBook on a padded surface when closed.
- Don’t clean with abrasive wipes, paper towels or harsh chemicals.
Additionally, invest in a padded laptop sleeve or case. Use a screen protector to prevent delamination issues over time. These simple precautions go a long way in extending your screen’s lifespan.
Conclusion
Light spots and patches on your MacBook display can result from pressure damage, manufacturing flaws, delamination or cracks. Examine the spots closely to deduce the likely cause. For damage-related issues, replacing the LCD panel or display assembly is needed. Manufacturing defects covered by Apple’s warranty qualify for free display repairs or replacements. With proper care and protection, you can avoid many screen issues that lead to troublesome light bleed and spots.