Step-by-Step Screen Replacement – M1 MacBook Pro 2020 (A2338) | Easy DIY TEKDEP Guide

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OVERVIEW:

In today’s TEKDEP repair guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of replacing the LCD assembly on a 13-inch 2020 MacBook Pro M1. The screen in this case was flickering across the bottom portion, making it difficult to use. We’ll be completely removing the damaged LCD assembly and replacing it with a new one. This detailed guide will ensure you can follow each step confidently. All tools and parts shown in this tutorial are available via the links in the description of the original video.

See the official Apple specs for the 2020 MacBook Pro M1

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REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 1.5 to 2 HOURS to complete and is of INTERMEDIATE difficulty, requiring careful handling of internal connectors and multiple screw types.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a pentalobe screwdriver to remove the bottom case, a suction cup for lifting the case, a plastic spudger to disconnect internal cables safely, a T5 screwdriver for key components, a T3 for hinge and bracket screws, a PH1 screwdriver for the vent module, and a T8 for the LCD hinge screws.

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Remove the Bottom Case

• Flip the MacBook over and remove the bottom pentalobe screws.
• Use a suction cup to gently lift and remove the bottom cover.
• Set the cover aside in a safe location for reassembly.

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Disconnect the Battery

• Use a plastic spudger to remove the battery management unit flex cable cover.
• Disconnect the battery management unit flex cable from the logic board.
• Use a T5 screwdriver to remove the pancake screw securing the logic board jumper to the battery board, fully isolating power.

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Remove Top Center Screws

• Use the T5 screwdriver to remove the screws at the top center securing the Wi-Fi vent module and LCD assembly.
• One hidden T5 screw under the top cover also needs to be removed to free the Wi-Fi antenna cables.
• Keep these screws grouped separately, as they are unique to this section.

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Remove LCD Hinge Covers

• Switch to a T3 screwdriver to remove the two T3 screws that hold each LCD hinge cover.
• Carefully lift and remove both hinge covers from the assembly.

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Remove the Bungee Screws

• With the T3 still in hand, remove four long T3 screws securing the LCD’s bungee-style mounts.
• Set these screws aside in a clearly labeled section for reinstallation later.
• These screws play a key role in holding the LCD to the top case.

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Remove LCD Connector Screws

• Next, remove the four smaller T3 screws that secure the LCD display connector.
• Gently set the connector area free for removal.
• Handle this part carefully to avoid damage to fragile flex cables.

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Unscrew Wi-Fi Vent Module

• Grab a PH1 screwdriver and remove all screws securing the Wi-Fi vent module on both sides.
• Ensure all screws are removed to fully detach the module.
• Set the module aside for now.

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Unscrew LCD Hinges

• Use a T8 screwdriver to remove the six screws securing the LCD hinges (three on each side).
• This will completely loosen the LCD from the bottom case.
• Support the display to prevent it from falling during this process.

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Disconnect Cables and Remove LCD

• Unplug the Wi-Fi antenna cables and LCD display connector.
• Remove the Wi-Fi vent module completely.
• Open the unit fully, then lift and separate the LCD assembly from the top case.

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Prepare New LCD Assembly

• Get your new LCD and ensure all bungees and cables are aligned and routed correctly.
• Open the top case and guide the hinges into their slots.
• Hold the hinges in place and close the unit to keep it stable.

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Reinstall LCD Hinges

• Use the T8 screwdriver to reinstall the six hinge screws (three on each side).
• Tighten securely, but avoid over-torquing.
• This secures the new LCD in place.

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Reinstall Bungee Screws

• Switch back to the T3 screwdriver.
• Reinstall the long T3 screws into the bungee mounts first.
• Ensure all screws are tightened evenly to maintain LCD alignment.

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Install Wi-Fi Vent Module

• Feed the Wi-Fi antenna cables through the module.
• Position the vent module correctly into its housing.
• Use the T5 screwdriver to secure it along with the center LCD board.

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Reconnect LCD and Antenna Cables

• Plug in the Wi-Fi antenna cables and ensure they’re fully seated.
• Plug in the LCD display connector securely.
• Use the same T5 screw previously removed to secure the Wi-Fi antenna cables.
• Place the cover back over the cable connections.

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Secure Center Display Connection

• Take the T3 screwdriver and its matching retention brackets.
• Secure the LCD display connection located in the center area.

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Reinstall Vent Module Screws

• Use the PH1 screwdriver to reinstall screws on either side of the Wi-Fi vent module.
• Make sure both sides are equally tight to maintain airflow and alignment.

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Install LCD Hinge Covers

• Reposition both LCD hinge covers onto their hinges.
• Use two T3 screws to secure each one into place.

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Reconnect Battery

• Take the pancake screw and reconnect the logic board jumper to the battery daughterboard using the T5.
• Plug in the battery management unit flex cable and close the retention bracket.
• Place the cable cover back into place securely.

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Test the New LCD

• Before closing the bottom case, plug in the MacBook to verify the new screen works.
• Open the lid and confirm boot-up and display clarity with no flickering.
• Move the lid through its full range to ensure no issues.

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Close Bottom Case

• Align the bottom case fingers with the Wi-Fi vent module.
• Slide it into place and press down on all clips.
• Use the pentalobe screwdriver to secure the bottom screws.

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CONCLUSION:

Replacing the LCD assembly on the 2020 MacBook Pro M1 is a manageable task with the right tools and attention to detail. This guide ensures a clear and precise walkthrough to help you complete the process smoothly. Always verify screen function before sealing the unit back up. If you experience flickering post-replacement, the issue could be with the LCD display connector. Thankfully, this fix resolved the problem entirely. Be sure to test thoroughly before concluding the repair.

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VIDEO TUTORIAL:

Looking for a more in-depth tutorial? Check out our complete teardown video for a detailed step-by-step walkthrough.

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MAIL-IN REPAIR SERVICE:

We offer professional screen replacement services. If you’re unsure about doing this repair yourself, send your device to our expert technicians for fast and reliable repair.

REPAIR SERVICES

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SHOP PARTS:

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SHOP TOOLS:

Using precision tools ensures a safe and efficient repair. Always use the right tools to prevent damage to delicate components. Investing in high-quality tools makes every repair smoother and more secure.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Contact us:

• Phone: 818-456-4479
• Email: [email protected]

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