Some time ago Apple extended the warranty for several MacBook Pro models past their standard 1 year warranty in reaction to a rather widespread problem with their video adapters. If you have one of these models and if you have been having trouble with scrambled graphics, missing graphics, or with the machine spontaneously shutting down you should take it to Apple to have it serviced by the end of this year.
Affected models are:
- MacBook Pro (15-inch Early 2011) – MacBookPro8,2 – EMC 2353
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2011) – MacBookPro8,2 – EMC 2563
- MacBook Pro (Retina, 15-inch, Mid 2012) – MacBookPro10,1 – EMC 2512
- MacBook Pro (17-inch Early 2011) – MacBookPro8,3 – EMC 2352
- MacBook Pro (17-inch Late 2011) – MacBookPro8,3 – EMC 2564
- MacBook Pro (Retina, 15 inch, Early 2013) – MacBookPro10,1 – EMC 2673
Just because you have one of these models doesn’t mean that you need to take it in. You only need to take it in if you are having this problem. Also the whole warranty is not extended; only this specific problem will be repaired free of charge.
The warranty extension is good through December 31 2016, or four years after the date of purchase, whichever is longer.
Before you bring your computer to Apple:
- Make an appointment because they don’t do well with walk-ins, especially on busy days.
- Back up your computer because sometimes they will wipe the computer clean.
- Change your login password to something you are comfortable providing to Apple.
- Be prepared to be without your computer for 2 to 5 business days.
For full details on the extended warranty program visit Apple’s web page on the subject.