Apple offers free fix for 2018 MacBook Airs with bad logic boards

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The late-2018 MacBook Air with Retina display.
They’re now more affordable, too.
Photo: Apple

Apple has identified a logic board issue with “a vey small number” of 2018 MacBook Air units. Users can return their machine to an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider for a free repair.

You will receive an email from Apple if your MacBook Air is affected.

Hot on the heels of a MacBook Pro recall, Apple has been forced to admit another notebook problem — this time with its newest MacBook Air. It has not provided any specifics, but we do know it’s a logic board issue.

The problem is big enough to warrant a logic board replacement, according to an internal document distributed to Apple Stores. And if your machine is one of the “very small number” affected, it will be fixed for free.

Is your 2018 MacBook Air affected?

Unlike the MacBook Pro recall, which affects all models sold during a certain period because Apple was unable to pinpoint which particular units were at risk, the MacBook Air issue can be traced to certain machines.

That means all affected users will receive an email from Apple to let them know they are eligible for a logic board replacement. They can then schedule an appointment with their nearest Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider.

“When the serial number of an affected MacBook Air is entered into Apple’s internal repair system, a message will direct technicians to replace the logic board,” reports MacRumors, which obtained a copy of the memo.

You have 4 years

You don’t have to rush to get your MacBook Air fixed if it is showing no signs of failure right now. The free logic board replacement is being offered for up to four years from machine’s original purchase date.

Apple notes, however, that if your MacBook Air shows signs of accidental damage that prevents a logic board replacement, you may be charged for necessary repairs that enable the replacement to be carried out.

Apple is yet to announce this repair program publicly. Given that it only affects a small number of customers, and those customers are being contacted by Apple, it likely sees no need to announce it.

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