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Apple service document discusses MacBook sudden shutdowns

Apple service document discusses MacBook sudden shutdowns

CNET staff
2 min read

We've extensively covered an issue where MacBooks suddenly shutdown (see this article for a full recap) under varying circumstances. Apple acknowledged the issue in a Knowledge Base document earlier this month.

We've now obtained a service document revealing the instructions authorized repair service centers are receiving regarding the issue, and stating that only the heatsink needs to be replaced on afflicted models.

Unfortunately, these data suggest all early-run MacBooks are affected by this issue, as they all used the same heatsink design. Apple has corrected the issue in models currently leaving the factory, but that does not ensure that a new MacBook you purchase from a retailer (or directly from Apple) will not exhibit the problem.

You may want to use a utility like coconutIdentityCard to determine when your MacBook was built. The MacBook was introduced on May 16, 2006 -- so if your build-date is within the first two or three months of production runs, try causing the MacBook to shutdown via the following process.

  1. Open the Terminal (located in Applications/Utilities)
  2. Type the following command: yes >/dev/null &
  3. press return
  4. type the command again: yes >/dev/null &
  5. and press return

Wait up to 15 minutes and wait for shutdown to occur. If one occurs, call AppleCare for service.

The Apple service document states:

"For MacBooks exhibiting intermittent shutdown, previously released documentation directed Apple service providers to replace the main logic board (MLB) and heatsink. After further investigation, Apple has determined that only the heatsink needs to be replaced in MacBooks exhibiting intermittent shutdown.

"To support service providers in updating repairs affected by the revised part instructions, and effective immediately, Apple will review and update (as necessary) all repairs in which a MacBook logic board/heatsink combo part is on backorder. See complete details about order review below.

"Apple will only be reviewing and updating (as necessary) those MacBook repairs placed prior to the publication of this message. As a reminder for all future repairs, it is critical that notes clearly describing a product's issue(s) be entered into the GSX 'Notes' field for every repair.

[...]

"The new heatsink part is now available for order in GSX and should ship later this week: 076-1243 Heatsink Kit, with Sponge, 1.0 mm Conn The MacBook (13-inch) Service Manual has been updated with this information and is available via links on AppleCare Service Source."

For further coverage, see our MacBook special report.

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

Resources

  • article for a full recap
  • acknowledged
  • coconutIdentityCard
  • AppleCare
  • MacBook special report
  • Late-breakers@macfixit.com
  • More from Late-Breakers