In the last few years, hundreds of MacBook owners have been beset by unpredictable screen issues, from intermittent flicker to a dim backlight or stage lighting that appears at the bottom of the screen. If you’ve experienced these symptoms, you could be a victim of the notorious MacBook Air Flexgate issue.
This hardware design flaw has affected thousands of MacBook Pro and MacBook Air notebooks, typically leading to expensive repairs and infuriating experiences.
What Is Flexgate? A Quick Overview
MacBook Air Flexgate is a display problem caused by a short or a weak flex cable that connects the MacBook display to the logic board. Over time, constant opening and closing of the MacBook lid degrades this thin cable, eventually leading to partial or total screen failure.
The most common indications of a MacBook Flexgate screen problem are:
- Stage lighting effect (bottom screen edge dimming)
- Screen blackouts or flicker
- Random display failures
- Total failure of display when opened more than a specific angle
This problem became so prevalent that Apple was ultimately compelled to admit to it, particularly after reports by online user postings and third-party repair shops escalated.
Timeline of Discovery: How Flexgate Became a Known Issue
MacBook Air Flexgate first appeared in late 2018 when users began complaining of strange screen behavior on newer MacBook Pro models. Websites like iFixit and YouTubers made the main culprit a discovery: Apple replaced the older, thicker display cable with a shorter, thinner cable in the 2016 redesign.
Unfortunately, the change exposed the cable to more wear and tear. By 2019, #Flexgate had already gone viral in Apple discussion forums and on Reddit. More than 15,000 users signed a petition calling on Apple to accept the defect.
Apple only quietly launched a Display Backlight Service Program as recently as May 2019, but that was only for the 13″ MacBook Pro units made between 2016 and 2018.
Real User Quotes on the Flexgate Experience
“I thought my MacBook was dead—just a stage light flicker at first, then complete black. Apple charged $700 until I learned about MacBook Air Flexgate.” — Reddit user u/digitalfix
Bought mine from Apple, and Apple fixed it at no charge after I cited the Backlight Service Program. Most folks don’t even know it exists!” — Apple Discussion Forum
Apple’s Repair Program: Do You Qualify?
Apple has a free repair program for eligible MacBook models with the MacBook Air Flexgate problem. It’s officially called the MacBook Pro Display Backlight Service Program and involves:
Model | Eligibility |
MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016) | Eligible |
MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017) | Eligible |
MacBook Air (2018–2019) | Not included (but can be appealed in store) |
To be eligible, your MacBook should be within 4 years of purchase or still under AppleCare, and you should take it in to an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider.
Note: If you paid to have your screen repaired before hearing about this program, Apple can reimburse you for it retroactively.
Symptoms Checklist: How to Identify Flexgate (Progressive Stages)
Early detection of MacBook Air Flexgate problems will save you from experiencing utter display failure.
Stage | Symptom | Severity |
1 | Weak stage light glows at the base of the screen | Mild |
2 | Occasional screen flickers while opening and closing the lid | Moderate |
3 | Screen blanks if the lid is opened beyond ~40 degrees | Severe |
4 | Complete screen blackout or display failure | Critical |
Comparison: Flexgate vs. Other MacBook Screen Issues
Issue | Cause | Fixable via Flex Cable? |
Flickering caused by software | macOS bug or GPU issue | No |
Loose connection of the display | Accidental damage | Yes |
MacBook Air Flexgate problem | Worn-out flex cable | Yes |
Cracked screen | Physical damage | No |
This comparison is meant to identify the difference between MacBook Flexgate and typical screen problems that users may face.
Legal Action: Apple Faced Class-Action Lawsuits
Apple was hit with a class action suit in 2020 in California over the MacBook Air Flexgate. The plaintiffs alleged that Apple knowingly sold defective laptops. Even without saying so, the suit forced Apple to become rather conciliatory in its public posture.
As of 2025, any settlement had been kept confidential. However, one good thing that came out of the lawsuit was that Apple switched to newer designs with longer flex cables for subsequent models.
Repair Options: Apple, Third-Party, or DIY?
Option 1: Apple Authorized Repair
If eligible, Apple will replace the screen for free under the MacBook Air Flexgate repair program.
Option 2: Third-Party Repair Shops
Most independent retailers can replace the flex cable or entire display assembly for $150–$300, depending on model and part quality.
Option 3: DIY Repair
Technologically inclined consumers may perform a do-it-yourself repair with an OEM-compatible flex cable replacement kit. You will need to:
- Precision screwdriver set (Pentalobe + Torx)
- Anti-static mat
- Replacement flex cable (for your model)
- Spudger & plastic prying tools
Warning: You may void your warranty by replacing the flex cable yourself. Do so only if you’re certain.
Preventative Measures: How to Prevent Flexgate in the Future
Even if your MacBook is not experiencing any symptoms yet, use these tips to prevent inducing a MacBook Air Flexgate problem:
- Open and close the lid slowly and gently
- Don’t stretch the lid beyond 90–100 degrees repeatedly
- Use a Flexgate mod (which was obtained from iFixit) that features strain relief in the cable
- Put your MacBook on a stable surface when in use to minimize lid movement
Expert Insight: What iFixit Says About Flexgate
According to iFixit, the real problem lies in Apple’s design choice:
“Instead of using a removable cable, Apple integrated it into the display, forcing full display replacements for a $6 cable problem.” — iFixit Flexgate Teardown, 2020
They recommend modular designs and offer MacBook Air Flexgate mod kits with installation guides.
Do You Fix or Replace?
If your MacBook Air backlight is flickering or dim but the computer is in good operating condition, a repair is worth considering. However, if you’re out of warranty and need to deal with several hardware problems, it could be best to simply upgrade to the new model featuring the redesigned display cable (2020 and later), where the MacBook Air Flexgate problem does not occur.
Final Thoughts
The MacBook Air Flexgate has been the bane of many users’ existence, but with increasing awareness, preventive measures, and repair avenues now in place, you can repair or prevent the problem altogether. Whether you get it done via Apple’s repair program, a third-party repair facility, or a DIY method, being aware of your options matters.
This guide attempted to cover everything others did not — from lawsuit background to user narratives, expert insights, and real-world prevention advice. You now have a guide that informs, protects, and prepares you for any MacBook Flexgate situation.
FAQ’s
Q1: Is screen flex cable failure still occurring in 2025?
Yes, there do still exist some 2018–2019 MacBook Air users who have display backlight failure issues, albeit since newer models feature longer and more durable cables.
Q2: Will Apple fix screen-related flex issues for free?
Apple carries out free repairs for individual MacBook Pro units, but you can appeal in-store if what is ailing you falls under their exception policy.
Q3: How much does a display flex repair at Apple cost?
If not insured, the repairs will cost around $500–$700. It is for this reason that most users choose to do third-party or DIY repairs when they encounter the flexgate problem.
Q4: Can I repair MacBook Air Flexgate myself?
Yes, if you’re comfortable with guides and tools, you can purchase a compatible flex cable and fix it yourself. Several iFixit guides take you through the MacBook Air Flexgate fix, step by step.
Q5: Which MacBook Air models are most affected by Flexgate
The 2018 and 2019 MacBook Air models are most commonly reported, particularly those that have been extensively used or opened and closed repeatedly.