Experimenting with the DIY Approach: Handle with Care

If you’re someone who likes to get their hands dirty and is okay with electronics, a DIY MacBook Pro screen replacement may be your cup of tea. Caution though—it’s no cakewalk.

Below is a rough guide to getting it done:

• Gently use a hairdryer to heat the adhesive around the edges of the screen.
• Gently place a suction cup and pull slowly to raise the screen. Be gentle and slow.
• After removing, clean the area with a microfiber cloth, smudging away fingerprints and smudges.
• Line up your replacement screen and follow directions from your kit for reassembly.

Tip: Always use a flat, static-free surface. Mismanaging a single screw can harm internal parts.

DIY Screen Replacement Kits: Worth It?

You can get DIY kits online ranging from $300 to $700. They usually come with:

• A new screen
• Tools needed (screwdrivers, suction tools, etc.)
• Reassembly safety screws
• Make sure your Mac can recognize the new display with calibration tools

But beware—these kits have pitfalls. Without proper knowledge or a steady hand, you may end up creating more problems than you solve. When things do go wrong, repairs can cost more than visiting the Apple Store.

Considering Battery Replacement Too?

If your MacBook’s battery has been sluggish, some kits also include a battery replacement option for around $100–$110. It’s a good time to upgrade both, especially if you’re already opening up your device. Just make sure your chosen kit includes all the right tools for safe removal and installation.

AppleCare+: A Safety Net That Pays Off

If you’ve already paid for AppleCare+, you’re set. The plan pays for most hardware-related problems, such as screen replacements, accidental damage, and out-of-warranty repair.

• Average cost of screen replacement under AppleCare+: about $300
• Without AppleCare+: anticipate paying $530 to $650

AppleCare+ also provides three years of service coverage, phone support, and on-site or mail-in repair as an option. And, they even cover shipping both directions if you go with mail service.

Apple Store Repairs: Expensive but Reliable

Apple’s official repair service might seem costly, but it comes with peace of mind. You’re getting original parts, certified technicians, and proper system calibration to ensure everything works smoothly.

• Third-party kits: $300–$700 (with risk)
• Apple Store screen repair: $530–$650 (without AppleCare+)
• With AppleCare+: ~$300

But screen damage isn’t always the only issue. If your MacBook has internal damage or starts showing strange behavior (like flickering lines or ghosting), it might be a sign of deeper issues—think graphics card or logic board problems. So it’s worth running a system check or macOS update too.

Repairs at The FIX: We’ve Got Your Back

If you’re close to a The FIX location, we’re here for you. Our experts possess the specialized equipment and experience necessary to perform delicate MacBook Pro screen replacements.

Your device is important to you. That’s why we:

• Carefully inspect to eliminate software causes (such as flickering due to Firefox or PRAM settings gone bad)
• Provide honest, upfront pricing
• Employ reputable parts and accurate calibration methods

Sometimes, a reboot or Safe Mode start is all it takes to clear things up—but if you’re seeing persistent cracks, dead pixels, or screen smudges that just won’t go away, don’t wait.

Final Thoughts: Fix with Care, Choose Wisely

Replacing a MacBook Pro screen isn’t just a technical repair—it’s about restoring your connection to the work, creativity, and communication that your Mac helps power.

Also Read : Laptop Battery Not Charging? Here Are 6 Simple Fixes You Can Try Today

Before you toss it across the room or start shopping for a new one, try these quick fixes. You might be able to sort it out in just a few minutes.

1. Tweak Your Mouse Settings

Sometimes it’s not the mouse—it’s just how your computer is reading your clicks.

If you’re on Windows, try this:

• Open Control Panel
• Go to Mouse settings
• Look for the double-click speed slider
• Move it slightly toward “Slower”
• Click the little folder icon next to it to test

If your system thinks your clicks are happening too fast, this setting can fix it.

2. Switch USB Ports

If your mouse plugs in via USB, unplug it and try a different port.
Sometimes, it’s just a fussy port acting up—not your mouse.

3. Wireless Mouse? Check the Batteries

Old batteries = weird mouse behavior.

If your clicks are acting up and your mouse feels a little laggy too, it could be that the batteries are low. Swap them out with fresh ones and see if things settle down.

4. Give the Button a Quick Clean

Yup, even your mouse needs a bit of cleaning now and then. Dust, crumbs, or even skin oils can mess with the button’s function.

Here’s what to do:

• Turn off or unplug your mouse
• Use a bit of compressed air or a soft brush to clean around the left-click button
• Press the button a few times to help shake loose anything stuck underneath

It’s a simple step, but it works more often than you’d think.

5. Update or Reinstall the Driver

Drivers are like translators between your mouse and your computer. When they’re out of date, things can get lost in translation—like your mouse thinking one click = two.

To update:

• Right-click the Start button → Open Device Manager
• Expand Mice and other pointing devices
• Right-click on your mouse → Click Update driver

Still no luck? Uninstall it from the same menu and restart your PC. Windows will install a fresh one automatically.

6. Try a Backup Mouse

Got an old mouse lying around? Plug it in and see if the issue still happens.
If everything works fine, congrats! You’ve just confirmed your current mouse is the culprit.

7. Check the Mouse App (If It Has One)

If you’ve got a fancy mouse—Logitech, Razer, Corsair, etc.—you probably have their software installed (like G Hub, Razer Synapse, etc.).

Open it up and look for:

• Click settings
• Macro assignments
• Firmware updates

Sometimes these apps have fixes built right in. Definitely worth checking.

8. Last Resort: It Might Just Be Worn Out

If you’ve tried everything and your mouse is still misbehaving, it could be the internal switch that’s gone bad. That happens after tons of clicks over time.

Unless you’re into tiny soldering projects, it’s probably time to treat yourself to a new mouse.

The Bottom Line

A jumpy left-click doesn’t always mean your mouse is done for.
Try these steps—adjust some settings, give it a clean, check the driver, maybe even change the batteries—and you might just fix it yourself.

Also Read : How to Fix a Loose USB Port on a Xiaomi Power Bank

Let me walk you through some easy fixes to get that mouse dancing again — whether it’s wired, wireless, or your laptop’s touchpad.

1. Check the Connection — The Classic First Step

I know, it sounds too simple. But seriously, unplug your wired mouse and plug it back in. Try a different USB port if you can—sometimes computers just want a little change of scenery.
Got a wireless mouse? Make sure that tiny USB receiver is plugged in tight, and if your mouse’s battery is looking sad, swap it out. Dead batteries are the sneakiest culprits!
Using Bluetooth? Peek into your Bluetooth settings to see if it decided to ghost you.

2. Turn It Off and On Again

The tech world’s oldest trick—but it works! Restart your computer and see if that pesky freeze melts away. Often, it’s just a little software hiccup.

3. Try Your Mouse on Another Computer

If you can, test your mouse on a friend’s laptop or another PC.

• If it works there, the problem’s probably with your computer’s settings or software.
• If it’s still frozen, it might be time to say goodbye to your trusty mouse.

4. Give It a Good Clean

Dust, pet hair, or crumbs love hiding around the mouse sensor. Flip your mouse over and wipe that little eye with a soft cloth. Also, check your mousepad or desk surface—optical mice don’t like shiny or super glossy surfaces.

5. Update or Reinstall Your Drivers

Your mouse’s software might need some love.
On Windows, open Device Manager → find your mouse → right-click → Update driver.
On Mac, head over to System Settings → Software Update and make sure you’re running the latest version.
If updates don’t help, uninstall the driver and restart your computer. Windows will do the heavy lifting and reinstall it.

6. Touchpad Acting Up? Here’s the Quick Fix

Laptop touchpad stopped responding? You probably toggled it off by accident.
Try pressing Fn + F7 (or Fn + F9) to turn it back on.
Or just check in your settings to make sure it’s enabled.

7. Is Your Whole Computer Slow or Frozen?

Sometimes the mouse isn’t the problem—it’s the whole system freezing.
On Windows, press Ctrl + Alt + Del and open Task Manager to see if some app is hogging your computer’s brainpower.
On Mac, press Cmd + Option + Esc and close any stubborn apps.

8. Got a Spare Mouse? Test It Out

If you have another mouse handy, plug it in and see what happens. If the second one works fine, your original mouse might be calling it quits.

Also Read : How to Repair a Charger Cord: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check the Battery and Charging Cable

The most common reason for a phone not turning on is a dead battery. Here’s what you should do:

• Inspect the Charging Cable: Ensure that your charging cable is working. Test it with another device or use a different charger to confirm.
• Clean the Charging Port: Sometimes, dust or debris can block the charging port. Use a soft brush or a can of compressed air to gently clean the port.
• Charge for 15-30 Minutes: If your phone has completely drained, give it some time to charge before attempting to turn it on again. If nothing happens, move to the next step.

2. Perform a Hard Reset

• For iPhones: Hold the power button and the volume down button (or the home button for older models) simultaneously for about 10-15 seconds until the Apple logo appears.
• For Android Phones: Press and hold the power button and the volume down button together for about 10 seconds or until the device vibrates or the logo appears.
  This action can sometimes resolve minor software glitches or freezes.

3. Inspect for Physical Damage

Physical damage could be another reason your mobile device isn’t working. Look for any visible cracks, water damage, or signs of impact. If your device has been dropped or exposed to liquid, it may require professional repair. If you need assistance.

4. Check for Software Issues

Sometimes, software bugs or updates may cause the phone to freeze. If you can get the phone to turn on but it’s unresponsive, you might need to:

• Boot into Safe Mode: For Android, press and hold the power button, then tap and hold the “Restart” option. For iPhones, try updating or reinstalling apps to ensure no app is causing the issue.
• Factory Reset: If your phone starts but is still malfunctioning, a factory reset might be necessary. Ensure to back up your data before proceeding, as this will erase all data on your phone. You can find step-by-step guides on Android Help or iFixit Repair Guides.

5. Seek Professional Help

If you’ve tried all the above methods and your phone still isn’t working, it might be time to visit a professional repair service. Common problems like a damaged motherboard or faulty internal components need expert diagnosis and repair.

Conclusion

A mobile phone not working can be frustrating, but with a few simple troubleshooting steps, you might be able to fix it yourself. Start with the basics like checking the battery and performing a hard reset. If the issue persists, professional help might be needed. By following these steps, you’ll know exactly how to handle a dead mobile device and potentially save on repair costs.

Also Read : Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a macOS Time Machine Backup

1. Charge Your Phone – The Right Way

If your battery is completely drained, your phone might take a few minutes to show any signs of life.
Steps:

• Use the original charger and cable.
• Plug in and wait for at least 30 minutes.
• Look for signs like a charging icon or slight warmth.

2. Try a Different Charger or Cable

Damaged or incompatible chargers might be the problem.
Tip: Use another working charger or USB cable to test. If your phone starts charging, the issue was likely with your accessories.

3. Force Restart Your Phone

Sometimes, the phone is on but stuck in a frozen state.
Try this:

• For most Android phones: Press and hold Power + Volume Down for 10–15 seconds.
• For iPhones: Press and quickly release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.

4. Connect to a Computer

Plug your phone into a PC or laptop with a USB cable. If the device is detected or begins charging, your screen or software may be the issue—not the phone itself.

5. Check for Physical or Water Damage

Inspect your phone for signs of:

• Cracked screen
• Water damage indicators
• Swelling near the battery area

If there’s damage, skip DIY fixes and head straight to a technician.

6. Visit a Service Center

If your phone still doesn’t turn on after all these steps, it may have a hardware failure, motherboard issue, or damaged battery. Take it to an authorized service center for a full diagnostic.

Final Advice

• Don’t try to open the device unless you’re a trained technician.
• Backup your data regularly to avoid data loss in situations like this.
• If your phone is under warranty, contact the manufacturer before attempting any repairs.

Still stuck? Drop your phone model in the comments, and we’ll try to help you out with brand-specific tips.

Also Read : Inside the iPhone 16: What We Discovered by Tearing It Down

Assess the Damage

Before deciding how to fix your screen, evaluate the severity of the damage:

• Minor Cracks: The screen is still functional, but small cracks are visible.
• Moderate Damage: The screen has noticeable cracks, and touch sensitivity may be affected.
• Severe Damage: The screen is completely shattered, and the display may be unresponsive.

Temporary Fixes

If you can’t repair your phone immediately, consider these quick fixes:

• Use a Screen Protector: This prevents further cracking and keeps the surface smooth.
• Apply Clear Tape: A thin layer of tape can hold the broken glass in place temporarily.
• Enable Assistive Touch: If touch sensitivity is affected, use on-screen navigation tools.

DIY Repair Options

For those comfortable with repairs, try these solutions:

1. Screen Replacement Kit

• Purchase a screen repair kit for your phone model.
• Follow detailed online guides or video tutorials.
• Be careful when handling fragile components.

2. Toothpaste or Baking Soda Trick (For Minor Scratches)

• Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a microfiber cloth.
• Gently rub in circular motions over the scratches.
• Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

3. DIY Glass Repair Liquid

• Some liquid screen protectors can fill minor cracks and reinforce the screen.

Professional Repair Services

If the damage is extensive, professional repair is the best option:

• Manufacturer Repair: Brands like Apple and Samsung offer official repair services.
• Local Repair Shops: Quick and affordable fixes for common screen issues.
• Insurance or Warranty Claims: Check if your phone is covered under warranty or insurance

Preventing Future Screen Damage

• Use a Protective Case to absorb impact.
• Apply a Tempered Glass Screen Protector for extra durability.
• Avoid placing your phone in pockets with keys or coins to prevent scratches.
• Handle your phone carefully and avoid dropping it.

Also Read : How to Repair a Severed Cable: A Step-by-Step Guide

Common Display Issues and Fixes

1. Blank or Black Screen

Possible Causes:

• Loose or damaged cables (for external monitors)
• Faulty power supply
• Graphics card failure
• System software issues

Solutions:

• Check and securely reconnect all cables.
• Restart the device to rule out a software glitch.
• If using an external monitor, try connecting it to another device.
• Update or reinstall display drivers.
• If the issue persists, a hardware component may need replacement.

2. Flickering Screen

Possible Causes:

• Incompatible or outdated graphics drivers
• Loose or damaged screen connectors
• Electrical interference
• High refresh rate settings

Solutions:

• Update the graphics drivers.
• Lower the refresh rate in display settings.
• Move electronic devices that may cause interference.
• If on a laptop, check for loose internal display connectors.

3. Cracked or Physically Damaged Screen

Possible Causes:

• Accidental drops or impacts
• Excessive pressure on the screen

Solutions:

• For minor cracks, use a screen protector to prevent further damage.
• If the touch functionality is affected, an immediate screen replacement is necessary.
• Take the device to a professional repair shop or manufacturer’s service center.

4. Distorted or Discolored Display

Possible Causes:

• Graphics card issues
• Loose or damaged internal display cables
• Faulty LCD or LED panel

Solutions:

• Restart the device and check if the issue persists.
• Try using an external monitor to see if the problem is with the display or the GPU.
• If the issue is internal, consult a technician for repairs.

5. Dead Pixels or Lines on the Screen

Possible Causes:

• Manufacturing defects
• Pressure damage
• Faulty graphics processor

Solutions:

• Use software tools designed to fix stuck pixels.
• Apply light pressure to the affected area (for stuck pixels).
• If under warranty, request a screen replacement from the manufacturer.

Preventing Display Issues

• Use a sturdy case or protective cover for mobile devices.
• Avoid exposing screens to extreme temperatures.
• Keep liquid and food away from electronic screens.
• Regularly update software and drivers to avoid compatibility issues.

If these steps do not resolve the problem, seeking professional repair services may be necessary. Display issues can sometimes indicate deeper hardware malfunctions, requiring expert intervention.

Also Read : MacBook Pro: How to Use an External Monitor from Boot

1. Clean the Keyboard with Compressed Air

Dirt and debris can accumulate under the keys, causing them to stick.

• Hold your MacBook at a slight angle.
• Spray compressed air in a zigzag motion across the affected keys.
• Repeat the process from different angles to dislodge any trapped particles.

2. Check for Software Issues

Sometimes, a macOS update or software conflict may cause key responsiveness issues.

• Go to System Settings > Keyboard and adjust key repeat settings.
• Restart your MacBook and test the keys.
• Boot into Safe Mode to check if third-party software is interfering.

3. Remove and Reseat Problematic Keys

If a specific key is sticking, carefully removing and reseating it may help.

• Use a plastic tool to gently pry the keycap off.
• Clean the area with isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth.
• Reattach the key by pressing down firmly until it clicks into place.

4. Contact Apple Support for Repairs

If cleaning and software fixes don’t resolve the issue, your MacBook may require professional servicing.

• Check if your MacBook is covered under Apple’s Keyboard Service Program.
• Visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider for keyboard replacement.
• Consider external keyboards as a temporary solution while awaiting repairs.

Conclusion

Sticky keys on MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models can be caused by dust, software conflicts, or hardware defects. Regular cleaning, software adjustments, and key reseating can resolve minor issues, while persistent problems may require professional servicing. By following these steps, you can restore smooth typing functionality and enhance your MacBook’s usability.

Also Read : How to Fix a Dell Laptop That Won’t Turn On

1. Check USB Drive and Connection

A corrupted or improperly formatted USB drive can prevent your system from booting.

• Ensure the USB drive is correctly inserted into a working USB port.
• Try using a different USB port or another flash drive.
• Recreate the bootable USB using a tool like Rufus or Windows Media Creation Tool.

2. Modify BIOS/UEFI Settings

Your BIOS or UEFI firmware may not be configured to boot from USB.

• Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI by pressing F2, F12, Del, or Esc (varies by manufacturer).
• Navigate to the Boot Order or Boot Priority section.
• Set the USB flash drive as the first boot device.
• Enable Legacy Boot if using an older operating system, or disable Secure Boot if necessary.

3. Ensure the USB Drive Is Bootable

If the USB drive isn’t properly formatted as a bootable device, your system won’t recognize it.

• Use Rufus or Etcher to create a bootable drive with the correct settings.
• Ensure the file system is set to FAT32 for UEFI or NTFS for Legacy BIOS.
• Verify that the ISO file used to create the bootable USB is not corrupted.

4. Check for Hardware Compatibility

Certain motherboards or systems may not support USB booting.

• Verify that your system supports USB booting in the manufacturer’s documentation.
• Try booting from another USB flash drive to rule out compatibility issues.
• Update your BIOS/UEFI firmware to the latest version.

5. Seek Professional Help

If none of the above steps work, there may be a deeper issue with your system’s firmware or hardware. Contact your manufacturer’s support or consult a professional repair technician for assistance.

Conclusion

A failure to boot from a USB flash drive is often caused by BIOS misconfiguration, a non-bootable USB, or hardware limitations. By checking USB integrity, modifying BIOS settings, and ensuring compatibility, you can resolve most boot issues. If the problem persists, seeking professional support may be necessary.

Also Read : How to Turn On Your Phone When the Power Button Isn’t Working

1. Check Cable Connections

A loose or damaged cable is a common cause of signal loss. Ensure the following:

• Verify that the HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, or VGA cable is securely connected at both ends.
• Inspect the cable for any visible damage and replace it if necessary.
• If available, try using a different cable or port to rule out connection issues.

2. Restart and Reconnect Hardware

Sometimes, a simple reset can restore the connection between your computer and monitor.

• Turn off your computer and monitor.
• Unplug the power cable and wait for 30 seconds before reconnecting.
• Turn on the monitor first, then power up your computer.

3. Check Display Input Source

If your monitor has multiple input sources, it may be set to the wrong one.

• Use the monitor’s built-in menu buttons to check and change the input source.
• Match the correct input with the cable type connected to your PC.
• If switching inputs doesn’t help, try reconnecting the display cable.

4. Test with Another Monitor or GPU

A faulty graphics card or monitor can also cause display issues.

• Try connecting your PC to a different monitor to determine if the issue is with the screen.
• If your PC has a dedicated and an integrated GPU, switch between them to test the output.
• Check if your graphics card is properly seated in the motherboard slot.

5. Seek Professional Help

If none of the above steps resolve the problem, your PC or monitor may have a hardware defect. Consult a repair professional or contact your device manufacturer for further assistance.

Conclusion

A “No Signal” message after startup can often be resolved by checking cable connections, restarting devices, and adjusting display settings. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can identify and fix the issue efficiently. If the problem persists, seeking professional support may be necessary.

Also Read : How Repairability Gives New Life to Computers in Senegalese Schools