Apple to Begin Repairing 2017 MacBook Pros with SSD/MLB Failure

Apple last week became aware of a “limited hardware issue” exclusively affecting an undetermined number of the company’s latest (2017) 13-inch MacBook Pro models with physical function keys, as noted in an official memo distributed to Apple retail stores and Apple Authorized service providers.

The issue, which will unfortunately require affected machines to either be mailed or taken into the store for service, is made manifest “when either the MacBook Pro’s solid state drive or main logic board experiences failure,” which in this instance requires both components be replaced simultaneously.

“Apple has identified a specific population of MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, Two Thunderbolt 3 Ports) units requiring both solid state drives and the main logic board to be replaced when either has a functional failure,” Apple said in its memo, a copy of which was obtained by MacRumors this week.

“A message will appear when either the solid state drive or the main logic board part number is added to the repair of an identified MacBook Pro system. The message will indicate both the SSD and MLB must be replaced when either component has a functional failure.”

While Apple stopped short of elaborating on the issue, or what causes it, the company was quick to point out that the only model affected is the 13-inch MacBook Pro with physical function keys released in June, 2017.

No other models, including the same 13-inch MadBook Pro from 2016 and all OLED Touch Bar variants, are subject to the issue, Apple says.

Moreover, the company notes, unrelated issues like a cracked display, damaged keyboard or unresponsive trackpad do not require a complete SSD-logic board replacement as pursuant with this issue. 

A bit of good news for those affected by this issue is that Apple has apparently authorized free repairs for this issue if the affected MacBook Pro is covered by the company’s one-year warranty or an extended AppleCare+ plan, just so long as there’s no evidence of liquid or accidental damage — otherwise, out-of-pocket repair fees may apply.

How to Get Service?

Given the isolated number of episodes, Apple hasn’t yet launched an official repair program for affected 13-inch MacBook Pro models, but it appears the company is nevertheless taking the matter seriously.

To initiate a service request, head over to the official Get Support center on Apple’s website.

• Select Mac —> Mac Notebooks.
• From there, select Hardware Issues —> The Topic Is Not Listed.
• Briefly explain what’s going on with your machine and then select Continue.

There are multiple options for obtaining service. To schedule an in-store repair, select “Bring in for Repair” to schedule an appointment with an Apple Authorized Service Provider or Genius Bar.

Alternatively, you can contact Apple’s support advisors by phone or online chat to initiate a mail-in repair in select countries, including here in the U.S. where the company quotes a 5-7 day turnaround time on the full repair.