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Broken LCD? 13″ M3 MacBook Air 2024 Model A3113 – Display Replacement Step-by-Step Tutorial


OVERVIEW:

In this tutorial, we walk through a full display replacement on an Apple MacBook A3113 (Starlight). This is a relatively fast and manageable repair for those with the right tools and care. The process includes removing the bottom plate, disconnecting the battery, detaching speaker and antenna assemblies, and finally installing a new display. With patience and precision, this repair can restore your MacBook screen in under an hour.

See the official Apple specs for this model


REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 1 HOUR to complete and is of INTERMEDIATE difficulty, requiring basic experience with MacBook internals and precision disassembly.


STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a T1, T3, and large Torx screwdriver, a plastic pry tool for lifting components safely, and a soft workspace to avoid scratching the display. Additionally, a pentalobe driver is necessary for display screws, and tweezers are helpful for handling small ribbon cables and screws.


Remove the Bottom Case

  • Remove the four same-size screws using a Torx driver, keeping them in order as each has a unique rivet position.
  • Pry gently under the edge using your fingers and slide your pry tool along the sides to release hidden latches.
  • Once loosened, lift from one side while pushing from underneath to fully detach the back cover.

Disconnect the Battery

  • Locate the battery connector on the logic board, not directly connected to the battery itself.
  • Remove the two T3 screws, lift the hatch, and use a pry tool to pop off the battery connector.
  • Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds to fully discharge the machine before continuing.

Label and Organize Screws

  • Keep removed screws in a top-down layout beside your workspace.
  • This helps ensure correct reassembly and prevents any missing or mismatched components during the process.

Disconnect Speakers and Antennas

  • Use the pry tool to lift the speaker ribbon cables from both sides of the logic board.
  • Carefully disconnect both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth antenna connectors using a lift-and-pop motion—avoid using force.
  • Start removing all surrounding screws securing both speaker units and antennas.

Remove Protective Corner Covers

  • Pry up the hinge corner protectors using your hands and pry tool—these should release easily.
  • Removing these gives access to additional screws that anchor speakers and antenna hardware.

Detach Left Speaker Bracket

  • Remove four screws total: two visible and two hidden under a small black protector.
  • Once screws are removed, lift off the left-side bracket and set it aside with its matching screws.

Unplug Display Cables and Ribbon

  • Unscrew four display cable screws: two pentalobe and two T3 screws.
  • Use the large Torx driver to remove both hinge screws (they’ll be tight).
  • Gently pry up and set aside the display ribbon cables.

Remove Fragile Ribbon Cable

  • Pry up the small, delicate ribbon cable on the left side—be extremely careful to avoid tearing.
  • Remove the tiny T1 screw hidden beneath the cable, using tweezers if needed to avoid dropping.

Detach Old Display

  • Open the hinge until it reaches a 45-degree angle and place the MacBook on its back.
  • Pull up gently and the old display will detach completely from the base.

Install New Display

  • Align the new display into place, positioning cables and hinges beneath the top case.
  • A table edge can help keep the display at the right angle for easier alignment.
  • Once inserted, make sure the display is centered and flush—adjust by loosening hinge screws if needed.

Reconnect Fragile Ribbon Cable

  • Start by screwing back the small ribbon cable to avoid damage during other steps.
  • Take your time—this is one of the most delicate parts of the process.

Reconnect Display Cables

  • Press each ribbon cable connector gently into place—do not force them.
  • Secure the T3 screws for both display connectors.

Reinstall Speakers and Antennas

  • Begin with the left speaker, setting it into place before reconnecting the protective casing.
  • Reinstall the right speaker and bracket, then secure both speakers using four main screws each.
  • These four screws include rivets that align with the backplate.

Reconnect Antenna and Speaker Cables

  • Reconnect both speaker ribbon cables and antenna connectors by pressing straight down.
  • Confirm connection by ensuring there’s no wiggle and a firm “click” is felt or heard.

Final Screws and Connectors

  • Reinstall the final bracket and screws securing the antenna wires.
  • Reconnect the battery by aligning it under the metal latch and pressing down.

Reinstall the Back Cover

  • Insert the latches into their slots by holding gentle pressure, then press down until flush.
  • Screw in all four bottom plate screws, ensuring proper rivet alignment.
  • Do not force screws; stop if there’s resistance and verify correct placement.

CONCLUSION:

With everything back in place and flush, this MacBook A3113 now has a fully functioning display installed using TekDep replacement parts. Careful handling of ribbon cables and screw placement is critical to avoid damage. As seen, this repair can be done quickly and efficiently with the right tools and a bit of patience. Whether you’re confident in DIY or need a pro, we’re here to help.

Before and After Display Replacement

VIDEO TUTORIAL:

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


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.


SHOP PARTS:


SHOP TOOLS:

Using precision tools ensures a safe and efficient repair. Always use the right tools to prevent damage to delicate components.


HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Contact us:


YOUR EXPERIENCE MATTERS:

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