Need graphics (GPU) repair for your MacBook Pro 15-inch Unibody? We carry out this work in-house at our London workshop, with a fixed quote before we start.
On the 2011 15-inch MacBook Pro, the AMD graphics chip fails as its solder joints crack from heat cycles. Symptoms are a grey or blue screen, boot loops and stripes. A reflow is only a short-term fix. The options are a proper GPU replacement, or a lasting workaround that disables the discrete GPU so the Mac runs on Intel HD 3000 graphics, which is fine for everyday work. We explain both options and the cost before doing anything.
About this model: The 15-inch unibody MacBook Pro (A1286) was the professional’s laptop for four years. It shares the easy-access drive and RAM of the 13-inch but adds a discrete graphics chip, and that’s where the trouble is: the 2011 models with AMD Radeon 6490M, 6750M or 6770M graphics are notorious for GPU failure.
Signs it needs graphics (GPU) repair
- Stuck on grey or blue screen
- Boot loop after the Apple logo
- Stripes or artifacts on screen
- Crashes in games, video or external display use
How we do it
A heat-gun ‘reflow’ is often sold as a GPU fix, but it rarely lasts more than a few weeks. We diagnose whether the fault is the graphics chip itself, its video memory or its power circuit, and then either replace the chip or disable the discrete GPU where the model allows it, so the Mac runs reliably on integrated graphics.
Before anything is done, we explain the cost against the value of your machine, and if a repair doesn’t make sense, we’ll still help you get your data off.
At a glance
| Years | 2008–2012 |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core 2 Duo, then Core i5/i7 with NVIDIA or AMD graphics |
| Storage | Standard SATA drive |
| Memory | Socketed, upgradeable |
| Battery | Screwed in (no glue) |
| Power / charging | MagSafe 1 |
Before you bring it in
If it works intermittently, note when it fails (start-up, games, video, external display). Back up whenever it does start, in case the fault worsens.
Which model do you have?
This page covers the MacBook Pro 15-inch Unibody (2008–2012) (MacBookPro5,1 to 9,1; A1286). Open the Apple menu, choose About This Mac, then More Info or System Report. The A-number is also printed in small text on the underside. Not sure? Bring it in and we’ll identify it for you.
Price
Non-complex board repairs from £165 + VAT; complex repairs (liquid, lightning or GPU faults) from £285 + VAT. The initial assessment and advice are free, as long as we don't need to open your Mac. If a technician needs to open it and spend time diagnosing the fault, or you need a report for an insurance claim, it is booked in as a diagnostic at £45 + VAT (£54). All prices are subject to inspection, and nothing is done without your approval.
Questions we’re often asked
Is a Mac this age worth repairing?
It depends what you use it for. For recovering data, running legacy software or keeping a working studio setup, often yes. We give you the cost upfront and an honest view on whether it makes sense.
Do I pay if you can’t fix it?
No. If the repair isn’t possible, you don’t pay for it, and the free initial assessment costs nothing.
Book a repair
For a free, no-obligation quote, call 020 7394 2528 or email info@mac-repair.london.