User-installed HDs in the mini and AppleCare

[Ruahrc]

I know upgrading the HD in a MacBook Pro is a "sanctioned" upgrade, so you can install your own HD and not void the warranty. Does the same apply for he Mac mini? Or do all of you who installed your own SSD just accept that you lose the warranty/AppleCare?

I wanted to buy a mini and install my own SSD but I also was planning on getting AppleCare, just wanted to be aware of any potential issues.

Ruahrc

 

[MadDragon1846]

From reading various threads on here. It seems you can upgrade the hdd and it won't void the warranty. But if you damage anything in the process, then it'll void the warranty.

So you'll want to be super careful while upgrading... Also if the mini breaks down at some point. If you haven't damaged it, you can always just put in the old hdd before sending it in for repairs

*edit*
I'v watched a couple of vids showing how to upgrade the hdd, and I can't see any reason for them to know you upgraded the hdd, as long as you put the original hdd back before sending it in. There's no heat sensors attached or anything like on the older mac minis. (apparently it gets the heat reading sent through the sata cable).

Saying that, though. I wouldn't risk it unless you are good at this kind of stuff, so you'll definitely not damage anything. If anything gets damage, they'll know straight away... (also you'll need the proper tools for the job).

 

[GGJstudios]

From the Mac mini User Guide:

Do Not Make Repairs Yourself
Your Mac mini doesn’t have any user-serviceable parts, except for memory. To install memory, follow the instructions in Chapter 3. Except for memory, do not attempt to replace or repair any components inside your Mac mini. If your Mac mini needs service, consult an Apple Authorized Service Provider or Apple. See “Learning More, Service, and Support” on page 62.

 

[philipma1957]

From the Mac mini User Guide:

adding a better hdd would be an upgrade not a repair.

 

[fa8362]

adding a better hdd would be an upgrade not a repair.

The quote said, "REPLACE or repair."

 

[japtor]

I think that's the same as the older models, so the same probably applies like MadDragon says. You can generally do whatever, but if you break something you're on your own. And they might be able to tell you upgraded cause the black drive cover thing, it's hard to get it off without adding at least a tiny bit of visible wear to it.

Of course if you have to take it in at some point it'll depend on the person you're dealing with. One time I was next to a guy that said he replaced the whole screen assembly on his MacBook and the genius bar guy had no problem with that, probably because his current issue was the HD.

 

[GGJstudios]

adding a better hdd would be an upgrade not a repair.

From the Apple Limited Warranty

This warranty does not apply: (e) to a product or part that has been modified to alter functionality or capability without the written permission of Apple;

 

[MadDragon1846]

And they might be able to tell you upgraded cause the black drive cover thing, it's hard to get it off without adding at least a tiny bit of visible wear to it.

That's a good thing about upgrading to a ssd. They don't have the exposed bits, so you don't need to put the black cover thing on it.

 

[philipma1957]

From the Apple Limited Warranty

Quote:
This warranty does not apply: (e) to a product or part that has been modified to alter functionality or capability without the written permission of Apple;



How come my warranty reads this:

This warranty does not apply: (a) to consumable parts, such as batteries, unless damage has occurred due to a defect in materials or workmanship; (b) to cosmetic damage, including but not limited to scratches, dents and broken plastic on ports; (c) to damage caused by use with non-Apple products; (d) to damage caused by accident, abuse, misuse, liquid contact, fire, earthquake or other external causes; (e) to damage caused by operating the product outside the permitted or intended uses described by Apple; (f) to damage caused by service (including upgrades and expansions) performed by anyone who is not a representative of Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider (“AASP”); (g) to a product or part that has been modified to alter functionality or capability without the written permission of Apple; (h) to defects caused by normal wear and tear or otherwise due to the normal aging of the product or (i) if any Apple serial number has been removed or defaced.


Completely different then your quote for letter e) and letter f) says/reads not covered for damages.

I used your link for the warranty. But I am in the usa maybe you are in the U.K. and it reads differently.