Hinge Cracked :(

[HLdan]

'past the locking point'!

The reeason it's' resisting there is that the metal on the bottom of the hinge is pressing against something else (also metal). So, if you push it 'past' that, it only stands to reason that something's got to give - metal will be bent or the hinge will crack.

What if you 'open' a car door past it's 'locking point'? Do you think that should cause no damage to the car door hinge?

Seriously, that's the kind of thinking that is odd to me.

As far as the question of why the rev A's seem to have the problem, it's again my guess that the breaking of the hinge is a cumulative effect from repeatedly putting too much pressure on the screen once it's already at it's stopping point. Over time, the people who are abusing the hinge on their rev. B's will start to have the problem in large numbers as well.

If almost every time you open your laptop you're jerking the screen back hard until it stops, over time I would think that would damage the hinge.

And I don't think that could be called a 'design' flaw. That would be called using a finely crafted piece of equiptment too roughly.

I mean honestly people, look at the damage in the pictures from the first post. Look at how that metal is bent and scratched. So we're saying that he was handling his laptop with proper care and that just 'happened'? Please...

I think you misunderstood me or rather I wrote it kinda wrong. I was saying that the hinge should be resilient enough to withstand some force before breaking. In the real world every person is different, some will baby their computer and others will be a bit careless. Notebook computers are opened and closed everyday and should be built to withstand the pressures of everyday use with all kinds of users. This has not been an issue with Apple's previous computers or the new Macbooks and Pros, the Air shouldn't be any different just because it's thin.

 

[stoconnell]

I'm not blaming anyone specifically, but in GENERAL, watching people use their laptops over the past 15 years, in countless airports and coffee shops, along with some friends and co-workers, I would say that there's a LOT of people who treat their laptops too roughly. More roughly than I have ever treated mine. Is the MacBook air more delicate than your average Dell? Probably so, after all ... it is rather thin and light. That fact, along with how much I spent on it, makes me inclined to baby it a bit and NOT thrash it around like a 500 dollar Dell.

Reminds me of story a coworker told me once about a support call he got from a faculty member about an old Apple laptop. Apparently, the guy became convinced that the panel was stuck and applied massive amounts of force and managed to the open unit from the hinge side .. effectively ripping the panel off the unit.

 

[hodgeheg]

I'll probably get flamed for this, but I have a feeling most of the problems are from people who try to push the screen back further than it's designed to go.

No flame from me, and you may well be right in many cases. However it seems pretty unlikely that this is the majority. The other thing I've seen lots of people do (with many a brand of computer) is sit there with it on a duvet with the vents blocked and wonder why it gets hot. But this certainly doesn't apply in my case. I'm well aware of its range, and don't even push it all the way back - I've had enough mac laptops to be well aware of the hinge range of movement. I'm also super careful about using it properly.

I also looked after mine incredibly carefully. There was not the slightest scratch on it, I always carried it in an incase sleeve which was itself then inside an expensive padded laptop rucksack, and then not swung around. It was only ever used on flat surfaces with adequate airflow etc etc etc.

In short, all my Apple laptops have lived super-gentle lives - far far more so than most laptops I see of any make.

 

[Unprocessed1]

Ok, I went to the apple store again to get an estimate.

Instead of last time (listed as a Tier 4 with screen replacement) quoted at $800, this time it was listed as Tier 2 accident damage, and was only priced at a total of $430.

The guy said something about they don't have to replace a fine screen.

However, looking back the screen IS still dented and dinged up, and I'd hope they fix it if I'm going to pay them. What exactly will a Tier 2 do for my macbook air?

Also, the receipt said my warranty is voided. Will it still be voided even if I get the macbook air fixed? Seems ridiculous if they won't let me get apple care for it again.

 

[robeddie]

Ok, I went to the apple store again to get an estimate.

Instead of last time (listed as a Tier 4 with screen replacement) quoted at $800, this time it was listed as Tier 2 accident damage, and was only priced at a total of $430.

The guy said something about they don't have to replace a fine screen.

However, looking back the screen IS still dented and dinged up, and I'd hope they fix it if I'm going to pay them. What exactly will a Tier 2 do for my macbook air?

Also, the receipt said my warranty is voided. Will it still be voided even if I get the macbook air fixed? Seems ridiculous if they won't let me get apple care for it again.

You dropped your computer and put a significant dent in the back of it ... where the hinge is!

There's all sorts of possible damage that could be causes by such a drop.

If you were the seller of an item, and someone put that kind of damage on a product you sell, would you honor the warranty?

I know I'm going against the grain of opinion here (including Scottsdale, whom I think is often right in his thoughts about the Air) and say that I agree with Apple on this one.

You crack up your computer, then get all pissy when they want to cancel your warranty.

On the bright side, look at it this way: A new Air should be coming out in a few months and (I'm guessing) you'd probably would have bought that one anyway. Once you get your next new shiny laptop.... please please do everything you can to not drop it. For your own sake.

 

[Unprocessed1]

You dropped your computer and put a significant dent in the back of it ... where the hinge is!

There's all sorts of possible damage that could be causes by such a drop.

If you were the seller of an item, and someone put that kind of damage on a product you sell, would you honor the warranty?

I know I'm going against the grain of opinion here (including Scottsdale, whom I think is often right in his thoughts about the Air) and say that I agree with Apple on this one.

You crack up your computer, then get all pissy when they want to cancel your warranty.

On the bright side, look at it this way: A new Air should be coming out in a few months and (I'm guessing) you'd probably would have bought that one anyway. Once you get your next new shiny laptop.... please please do everything you can to not drop it. For your own sake.

Can you please just stop posting? Do you think someone actually intends to drop their laptop? You're either trying to instigate something or aren't very intelligent, and unlike some of the posters that happen to disagree with me and make some good points, you aren't really contributing anything to this discussion other than blasting anyone who has had a faulty hinge or who has accidentally dropped their laptops before. I'm sure it's going to happen to you someday as well.

 

[dubhe]

From another thread:

My MBA is only two months old, I'm going near an apple store in a week's time, think I'm going to take my sloppy hinge in and see what they say. If nothing else, if it does break in a few months time I will have a record of my earlier visit/concern.

I really want my MBA to be perfect, I don't want to buy a MBP (and I wouldn't buy a MB for the screen), but this screen (hinge and grey lines) is making me think I should call it quits and sell on eBay...

Wirelessly posted (BlackBerry8310/4.5.0.110 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/179)

Update!

Took my MBA to the apple store today and showed the sloppy hinge to the genius. At first he said he would log it (against the serial number) so if it did get worse we would have a record.

I asked about what they could do, he said they would tighten the screws but if it didn't work they would have to replace the part, which is the whole screen.

I advised the slop had gotten worse over the past few weeks and was afraid it would break (as others have). I requested he took it in to see what they could do.

The genius said OK, and ordered a new screen in case it was needed. I should have my MBA back either way by the end if the week.

I'm very happy with the service received so far by the apple store, in the UK at least they don't seem to want to blame the user for everything.

I'll let you all know when I get it back.

Ok, still waiting. Phoned the store yesterday and they said they were waiting for an engineer to have a look at the hinge, I got the impression the genius' were a bit stuck on what to do. Hopefully this means they are unable to tighten and they are looking at replacing the screen (which they ordered when they took my MBA in, it is on the repair receipt).

Being a bank holiday weekend in the UK it will be at least Tuesday now before I got my MBA back as I am away. I dug out my old PB12 from the loft and am typing on it now, so glad I kept hold of it, over five years old and still going strong!

I am thinking about this hinge issue seriously though, is it a design fault or just a QC problem that can be fixed by application of a new screen by a careful apple store genius?

If it is a design fault should I be selling my MBA once it is back and whilst it is still in warranty (I only bought my MBA in February) and in a very good condition? I would hate to have it fail again out of warranty (I don't buy applecare as I have that many Macs it works out cheaper to take the risk and if required sell on eBay as spares/repair and buy a new one).

Got my MBA back today with a new screen, took them over a week apparently because the first replacement they fitted the iSight didn't work so they had to order another one in.

Hinge is wobble free now but I am still worried it might do it again, going to give it a couple of weeks then I might just sell it and buy a MBP...

For info, the screen cost £233 + VAT (£267.95) and Hardware repair level 1 cost £40 + VAT (£46). All covered by the warranty no problems.

That's a total of $475 including VAT using today's exchange rates.

Screen is a 9C90.

Take it in quick! They can log it against the serial number, then if it does break your friend can show it was something that gradually got worse, not the result of misuse.

 

[Unprocessed1]

thanks, dubhe.

Interesting how they quoted your screen being closer to $400 than $800, like they're doing to almost everyone. Doesn't it end up fixing the same problem and require a new screen?

 

[dubhe]

thanks, dubhe.

Interesting how they quoted your screen being closer to $400 than $800, like they're doing to almost everyone. Doesn't it end up fixing the same problem and require a new screen?

Yes, and if a screen assembly is just £233 then it should be the same everywhere. Labour seemed reasonable too, but then with a whole new screen all they need to do is unscrew one and screw on the other! Ok, and attach a few cables, run tests...

 

[robeddie]

Can you please just stop posting? Do you think someone actually intends to drop their laptop? You're either trying to instigate something or aren't very intelligent, and unlike some of the posters that happen to disagree with me and make some good points, you aren't really contributing anything to this discussion other than blasting anyone who has had a faulty hinge or who has accidentally dropped their laptops before. I'm sure it's going to happen to you someday as well.

Ok, last post.

If I do drop my laptop, I'm going to be an adult and accept that damage was my fault, and not post endlessly (like you) about how I should get covered by warranty.

 

[Unprocessed1]

Ok, last post.

If I do drop my laptop, I'm going to be an adult and accept that damage was my fault, and not post endlessly (like you) about how I should get covered by warranty.

You should re-read the entire thread then, because I haven't.

 

[gcmexico]

You should re-read the entire thread then, because I haven't.

***
um actually u have...which is very annoying...this thread was meaningless the moment I saw the dent and u wrote that u dropped it

 

[Unprocessed1]

***
um actually u have...which is very annoying...this thread was meaningless the moment I saw the dent and u wrote that u dropped it

No one's forcing you to read this thread. I never demanded apple should cover it under apple care, I was just wondering if they would. I told them the truth at the apple store, and that was that. The fall and hinge cracking happened so far apart from each other I find it hard to believe the very low drop led to the hinge busting almost a 3/4 of a year after, unless it very slowly deteriorated without many symptoms.

My laptop feel a foot onto a soft laptop case!!! It shouldn't break, and dent for that matter. Some of you are portraying me as intentionally dropping it down flights of stairs. It didn't affect anything besides the cosmetics.

About the broken hinges on Rev A : some people are solely blaming the users for the broken hinges which is ridiculous. i understand the drop of my laptop could have eventually caused the cracked hinge, but many others have never dropped their laptops. It's funny how some who have perfect hinges like to just blame the users and defend Apple regardless of how common this problem is.

Just because you have not encountered problems on YOUR product, does not mean that all products are built the same. Not every laptop will have the same defect. 100% of Rev A airs don't have the hinge problem. Even if it's 1%, it's still enough.

I bought mine the day it came out...have never had a problem with it, take it e ever where I go...I'm a high school teacher, I use it every day to do my lessons on keynote...my hinges on nice and tight...I agree with the above post, broken hinges are caused by miss use...I've been very careful with it from day one, have a spek case to avoid scratches, have a sleeve to carry it around, it looks absolutely brand new

 

[Scottsdale]

Ok, I went to the apple store again to get an estimate.

Instead of last time (listed as a Tier 4 with screen replacement) quoted at $800, this time it was listed as Tier 2 accident damage, and was only priced at a total of $430.

The guy said something about they don't have to replace a fine screen.

However, looking back the screen IS still dented and dinged up, and I'd hope they fix it if I'm going to pay them. What exactly will a Tier 2 do for my macbook air?

Also, the receipt said my warranty is voided. Will it still be voided even if I get the macbook air fixed? Seems ridiculous if they won't let me get apple care for it again.

They should refund you for AppleCare if they don't allow its coverage as useful. That is wrong! At least $430 is cheaper!

 

[Unprocessed1]

They should refund you for AppleCare if they don't allow its coverage as useful. That is wrong! At least $430 is cheaper!

Actually the Apple Care isn't in my name, but the original buyer's (i bought it on ebay). If I request a refund would the original buyer get the refund?

 

[Scottsdale]

No one's forcing you to read this thread. I never demanded apple should cover it under apple care, I was just wondering if they would. I told them the truth at the apple store, and that was that. The fall and hinge cracking happened so far apart from each other I find it hard to believe the very low drop led to the hinge busting almost a 3/4 of a year after, unless it very slowly deteriorated without many symptoms.

My laptop feel a foot onto a soft laptop case!!! It shouldn't break, and dent for that matter. Some of you are portraying me as intentionally dropping it down flights of stairs. It didn't affect anything besides the cosmetics.

About the broken hinges on Rev A : some people are solely blaming the users for the broken hinges which is ridiculous. i understand the drop of my laptop could have eventually caused the cracked hinge, but many others have never dropped their laptops. It's funny how some who have perfect hinges like to just blame the users and defend Apple regardless of how common this problem is.

Just because you have not encountered problems on YOUR product, does not mean that all products are built the same. Not every laptop will have the same defect. 100% of Rev A airs don't have the hinge problem. Even if it's 1%, it's still enough.

The most minor things will dent these lids on the MB, MBA, MBP. The same with older MBPs that is hollow inside of thin outer aluminum shell. Apple has used its own failures in design, to remove its liability from warranty and AppleCare (without refunding a portion when invalidating warranty which is WRONG)! Apparently Apple designed its Mac notebooks not just to appear wonderful but also as a way to reduce its own responsibilities. A properly designed/engineered case shouldn't ding or dent from minor BUMPS. And I have BUMPED an older MBP which dented and looked terrible after the most minor bump possible.

I don't think a HINGE should be damaged by a hollow lid being SLIGHTLY BUMPED. I am for your hinges being replace by Apple 100% at their cost NOT yours. Apple finds any way it can to avoid liability, just like my insurance company did with my claim when Macs were stolen. You stated that the lid was damaged further when the hinge cracked, and that makes sense to me. Also, someone said was recent bump by shine of scratch, but you clarified by stating that the hinge caused it to scrape against the top case of the MBA.

I am for you 100%. You haven't demanded anything as charged. You have put the information out their for our review, and some have accused you of blaming Apple which you haven't done, BUT I HAVE! Everything you have stated makes a lot of sense. You haven't demanded anything, and I compliment you on how you have dealt with everyone here criticizing you. It's wrong.

I sympathize with you that Apple is skirting its liability for hinges that seem to be obviously faulty given the number of complaints I have seen all over the forums. Even though I personally haven't seen this, I believe it's an ongoing problem we all COULD experience with our MBAs. There are too many cases, with too many people saying they haven't done anything to assume that this is someone's fault when their hinge breaks.

We all need to wait and think what would we do if Apple didn't accept its responsibility for our MacBook Air hinges if we knew we didn't cause the hinges to break, before we criticize each other.

I wish you the best. I think Apple should cover it, and I don't think you have demanded Apple do that, but I WOULD DO THAT IF I WERE YOU. Don't let a bad experience here and with Apple keep you from the forum, everyone here has their own opinions. We often disagree, but that is the nature of life. It's best to just move on without getting steamed about it. People are passionate about their Macs. I have learned that often here, and sometimes people have different opinions than we would like.

Good luck.

 

[GeekGirl*]

Actually the Apple Care isn't in my name, but the original buyer's (i bought it on ebay). If I request a refund would the original buyer get the refund?

Yes, they would unless you have the number on the bottom of the apple care box.

 

[gooddeal]

If I run a business, I will pay Scottsdale not to be my customer.

You have so much hate w/ Apple but you still use Apple.

 

[zoolaine]

Just got my macbook air's hinge fixed under the applecare warranty. The guy at the computer store (not an apple store) said they had seen one other MBA with a cracked hinge and apple refused to fix it. (they had told me it would cost about $800 if I had to pay for it myself) I am very happy, but think I will sell it and get a macbook that should hold up better.

 

[Scottsdale]

If I run a business, I will pay Scottsdale not to be my customer.

You have so much hate w/ Apple but you still use Apple.

I love the designs of Apple products. I own many of them, and I have bought quite a few Macs too. Most of my experiences have been good. However, I see Apple ignoring its obligations too often. With the number of reports on these hinges, Apple should be stepping up and taking care of them. I have had Apple deny me repairs when my Apple products were fully covered by warranty or AppleCare. The whole process of getting a product repaired is like dealing with an insurance company. In the end, I waste my time to be treated like an idiot by disrespectful and condescending "Geniuses." I can read, and yes it is covered!

Recently I decided to quit giving Apple the benefit of the doubt. So many people cannot be wrong about lines on their displays, hinge defects, problematic brand new Macs right out of the box with no quality control.

I don't want to do business with you, as you seem like the type that would avoid your own responsibility if you are going to criticize me and say you wouldn't want me as a customer.

MY customers get a premium service for a premium price. When I promise something, I DELIVER. If I fail in any way, I MAKE IT RIGHT IMMEDIATELY. I don't believe in short changing people, I don't believe in nickel and diming people, and I definitely don't believe in not owning up to my mistakes.

That hinge is FAULTY! Too many people are reporting this. Apple needs to stop blaming people and repair these Macs immediately. I cannot believe how Apple is trying to make money now. Sell defective MBAs and charge people another $800, on top of the original price of up to $3099!

It's sick that people would flame this OP. Saying a bump ruined a hinge, SICK! Sounds like a shareholder talking. The sick part is I am a shareholder, and I am pretty frustrated with Apple. I don't want to make money this way! I lose respect instantly for anyone who ignores or denies responsibility when it is this obvious!

 

[dubhe]

I don't get why it is $800 when in the UK it costs half that, maybe you guys should fly over here and have your hinges repaired

 

[psingh01]

samething happened to me with the original Ti Powerbook G4. I refused to pay the amount of money Apple wanted. Eventually (a loooong time later) I found a site with aftermarket hinges and replaced it for under $100.

 

[Unprocessed1]

UPDATE:
I shipped my macbook air overnight yesterday, it arrived at the repair center this morning, and the product is pending return already (it took 7 hours!!).

I called Apple to find out what they fixed, and they said the problem was fixed, and among the things listed as being replaced was the screen bezel (WTF?) and she said nothing about the screen itself being replaced, which is strange.

Oh and the crazy part: no charge. Apple never called me saying the damage was accidental, and the person on the phone said that means there will be no charges made for repair. When I called to request a box I even told the lady on the phone that the damage was probably accidental, and she said the techs will determine that and get back to me. The plastic covering the hinge actually started to crack days before, and it seemed the plastic was VERY dry and crumbled without much resistance, which I don't believe should be normal, so maybe that was it.

So I literally made a $300+ profit on the repair from the insurance...interesting.

 

[DarioK]

UPDATE:

Was told my Service Provider that Apple have declined to fix the computer under warranty as they sent pictures of the machine to the tech guys and they said no. The SP quoted me 802 euros ($1000) to fix it, I called Apple and spoke to a manager and was told that they hadn't received any pics and could I send some in. I did then Apple called back and said that they would authorize a repair under warranty.....

Once again a happy man......

 

[stoconnell]

UPDATE:

Was told my Service Provider that Apple have declined to fix the computer under warranty as they sent pictures of the machine to the tech guys and they said no. The SP quoted me 802 euros ($1000) to fix it, I called Apple and spoke to a manager and was told that they hadn't received any pics and could I send some in. I did then Apple called back and said that they would authorize a repair under warranty.....

Once again a happy man......

Service Provider trying to pull a fast one? Or is Apple customer service wing covering for someone who didn't get an updated memo about the hinges? Or are we dealing with the right hand of Apple need to be reintroduced to its left.