How to Replace the LCD Assembly on the 14″ MacBook Pro M1 (2021–2023) – The First of Its Kind

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OVERVIEW:

In this repair tutorial, we’ll walk you through how to replace the LCD display assembly on a 14-inch MacBook Pro M1, model A2442. These displays are particularly fragile and even minor case damage can render the inner display and backlight nonfunctional. In this specific case, although the external glass wasn’t cracked, internal display failure occurred due to a slight bend in the frame. This guide demonstrates a full display assembly replacement using precision tools and step-by-step instructions. Follow along to restore full functionality to your MacBook Pro with confidence.

See official Apple specs for this model

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REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 2 HOURS to complete and is of ADVANCED difficulty, requiring careful handling of delicate connectors, multiple screw types, and detailed reassembly knowledge.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a Pentalobe screwdriver to remove the MacBook’s bottom screws, a suction cup to lift the bottom case, a T3 Torx screwdriver for disconnecting various internal brackets and connectors, a T5 Torx screwdriver for the LCD hinge covers and Wi-Fi vent module, a PL1 screwdriver for the Wi-Fi antenna mount, a T8 Torx for the hinge screws, and a plastic spudger for safely unplugging delicate connectors. Make sure you also have isopropyl alcohol nearby in case of stubborn adhesive.

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Remove Bottom Case

• Use a Pentalobe screwdriver to remove the eight screws securing the bottom cover—four at the top and four at the bottom.
• Apply a suction cup to lift and remove the bottom case.
• Gently pull upward and toward yourself to detach the panel without bending it.

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Disconnect the Battery

• Begin by removing the trackpad and battery daughterboard flex cables located left of the trackpad.
• Use a T3 screwdriver to remove the two screws on the flex cable bracket.
• Use a spudger to unplug the trackpad flex and the battery management unit daughterboard cable.
• Switch to a T5 screwdriver and remove the pancake screw connecting the battery to the daughterboard.
• Use a spudger to bend the connector away—this disconnects the logic board from battery power, making it safe to proceed.

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Remove LCD Hinge Covers

• Using a T5 screwdriver, remove the four screws (two on each side) holding the LCD hinge covers in place.
• Gently lift off the hinge covers and set them aside.

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Remove Wi-Fi Vent Screws

• With the T5, remove two long screws (one on each side) securing the Wi-Fi vent module.
• Continue by removing four additional T5 screws (two per side) that hold the LCD display connectors and Wi-Fi vent module in place.

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Remove LCD Proximity Sensor Bracket

• Switch to a T3 screwdriver and remove the two screws securing the proximity sensor bracket on the right side.
• Carefully remove the bracket.

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Disconnect Display & Wi-Fi Antenna Connectors

• Use the T3 to remove four screws securing the metal brackets over the LCD display connectors.
• Remove the T3 screw on the silver bracket holding the Wi-Fi antenna cables in place.
• With a plastic spudger, unplug the Wi-Fi antenna cables from the board.

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Remove Wi-Fi Vent Module

• Use the PL1 screwdriver to remove nine screws securing the Wi-Fi vent module (three at each location).
• Carefully lift and remove the Wi-Fi vent module from the case.

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Disconnect LCD Cables & Proximity Sensor

• Fish out and disconnect the LCD cables using a spudger.
• Unplug the LCD proximity sensor from its socket.

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Remove the LCD Assembly

• Use a T8 screwdriver to remove the six screws (three on each hinge) securing the display hinges.
• Once removed, gently tilt the display open and pull flat toward yourself to separate the LCD assembly from the top case.

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Prepare New Display Assembly

• Unbox the replacement LCD and carefully open the hinges with a Pentalobe screwdriver while still in the protective cardboard to avoid damage.
• Flip it over and prepare to align it with the MacBook’s top case.

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Install New LCD Assembly

• Align the new display hinges with the top case and insert them until they “pop” into position.
• While holding the assembly steady, close the hinges flat against the case.

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Reinstall LCD Hinge Screws

• Reinstall the six T8 screws (three per side) to secure the display hinges.
• Tighten firmly but do not over-tighten; if the display is too loose or doesn’t stay open, these may need to be tighter.

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Reconnect Cables

• Plug in the LCD proximity sensor cable.
• Connect the backlight and webcam cables on the right-hand side.
• Plug in the main LCD cable.

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Reinstall Hinge Covers & Wi-Fi Vent

• Reposition the hinge covers over the hinges.
• Fit the Wi-Fi vent module back into place.

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Reconnect Wi-Fi Antennas

• Use a plastic spudger to guide the Wi-Fi antenna cables back into their sockets.
• Ensure each connector is fully seated to avoid signal loss.

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Reinstall T5 Screws

• Reinsert the four black T5 screws securing the hinge covers.
• Insert the two long silver T5 screws for the Wi-Fi vent.
• Reinstall the four silver T5 screws holding the LCD connectors and vent module.

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Reinstall T3 Screws and Brackets

• Use the T3 to reinstall the bracket over the LCD proximity sensor.
• Replace the LCD connector brackets with the four T3 screws.
• Re-secure the antenna cable bracket with the last T3 screw.

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Reinstall PL1 Screws

• Insert the nine PL1 screws across three locations to secure the Wi-Fi vent module.

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Reconnect Battery

• Switch back to a T5 screwdriver and reinstall the battery daughterboard connection screw.
• Plug in the battery daughterboard and trackpad flex cables.
• Use a T3 screwdriver to re-secure the trackpad flex cable with the tension bar.

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Test the New Display

• Before closing the MacBook, plug in the charger.
• Open the display and power on the device—check for image, flickering, and artifacts.
• Confirm that everything functions correctly.

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Reinstall Bottom Case

• Line up the bottom case and push it downward and slightly forward.
• Install the longer four screws on the top side and the shorter four screws on the bottom.

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CONCLUSION:

This guide covered the complete process of replacing the display assembly on a 14-inch MacBook Pro M1 (A2442). Despite its delicate nature, this repair can be done successfully with patience and precision. Every step from disassembly to reassembly was detailed to help you follow along easily. Ensuring all connections are firm and correct is key to a successful repair. With your screen now functional again, your MacBook Pro should be good as new!

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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.

https://tekdep.com/device-repair

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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. Poor quality tools can lead to stripped screws and damaged connectors.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Contact us:

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

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