Apple admitted that some iMac models may have faulty hinges and now they are offering refunds. Customers who had to pay for repairs are eligible for a refund even if their device is already out of warranty coverage.
The updated internal service document that are given to Apple Authorized Service Providers states that the Cupertino-based tech giant will be giving refunds for those victims of the faulty iMac hinge, Mac Rumors reported. Apple is acknowledging that several of their 27-inch iMac that shipped between December 2012 and July 2014 have faulty hinges that cannot fully support the weight of the entire display.
Many iMac users have reported that their stands snapped or that the display suddenly tips forward regardless of how many times they adjust it. The culprit is the plastic washer Apple used instead of the required steel spring to support the heavy display.
Since the 27-inch iMac's display is large and heavy, the plastic washers often broke due to the pressure and their fragility. Users who paid to repair the iMac hinge can get a refund while those who still have it broken can have it fixed for free just by contacting Apple, InfoWorld reported.
Users who are eligible for the refund process can already book an appointment with the Genius Bar. Apple is giving the refund to everyone affected regardless of whether their iMacs are not covered by warranty anymore.
If the iMac hinge is not fixed, there could be a chance that the stand may give up altogether and possibly leading to a dropped display. A broken display or screen is not covered by the warranty and the parts required to fix them are highly expensive.
Customers can also contact Apple through the web forms or by their local phone number. Having Apple fix the problem rather than applying a temporary fix is better in the long run for the iMac itself.
Watch a video about the iMac hinge problem below: