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Late 2011 model, A1278 / 2.4 GHz i5 or 2.8 GHz i7 processor.

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Why does my display keep dropping out?

Hi all,

My Macbook display keeps dropping out when I open the lid. I get a grey screen with vertical lines that eventually fade.

Here are some photos:

If I press ESC and then close the lid and reopen, it often fixes the problem.

Generally, it take me 3 attempts at closing and reopening the lid to resolve the problem, but I am worried it will eventually totally fail.

I have read many threads, but none of them seem to have the same intermittent problem as me. I am thinking it could be a loose connection as my screen is a little wobbly.

It is out of warranty and I would like to attempt to fix the problem myself as I am often quoted gigantic prices for fixing this Mac.

Please help!

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I would start off trying an external display to see if it shows up their. If it does then you have a logic board problem. If the image is stable on the external and still messed up on the internal, it sounds like the connection to the LCD is having a problem.

You stated the lid is a bit wobbly. That would imply the cable to the display is damaged around the hinge area. I would recommend you open the bottom lid and check the hinge screws. Follow this IFIXIT guide: MacBook Pro 13" Unibody Late 2011 Display Replacement Follow Steps to get to the screws and check to make sure they are tight. If not you may want to put a small amount of fingernail polish just under the head of the screw when you tighten it down.

Don't forget to inspect the display data cable where it enters the hinge clutch cover is it worn?

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Thank you. I will try those.

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If you see anything amiss take a snap and post it here for us to see.

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