Got a 27-inch iMac? Apple might replace its 3TB hard drive for free

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Your iMac might be in need of a hard drive replacement.
Your iMac might be in need of a hard drive replacement.
Photo: Apple

Apple has launched a replacement program for certain iMac models with 3TB hard drives. If you bought a 27-inch iMac with a 3TB hard drive between December 2012 and September 2013, you might be eligible for a free replacement hard drive.

Replacements can be obtained via one of three ways: Set up a Genius Bar appointment at your local Apple retail store, find an Apple Authorized Service Provider to replace the hard drive, or contact Apple Technical Support for other local options.

To see if your Mac qualifies, visit Apple’s replacement program page and enter in your serial number. If you don’t know your Mac’s serial number, you can find it at on the back side of your iMac,  or by clicking selecting ‘About this Mac’ under the Apple menu.

Apple said that it “has determined that a very small number of 3TB hard drives used in 27-inch iMac systems may fail under certain conditions.” Not every iMac sold between December 2012 and September 2013 will qualify for the free repaid, but it doesn’t hurt to check.

If your iMac does qualify you still have a bit of work to do first, like backing up all your data using Time Machine or an external drive. Additionally, Apple is offering a refund to anyone who may have already paid for a replacement 3TB hard drive due to spontaneous failure. The hard drive replacement program expires December 19, 2015 or three years after the date of sale — whichever is longest for you personally.

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