Choosing a Mac Repair Service: What to Look For

Did You Know?

Quick Summary: Look for transparent pricing, genuine expertise (not just parts swapping), proper warranty, and clear communication. Avoid shops that can't explain what's wrong or won't quote before repair.

Choosing the wrong Mac repair service can mean wasted money, lost data, or a Mac that comes back worse than before. Here's what to look for - and what to avoid.

What to Look For

1. Diagnostic Capability

A good repair shop can tell you exactly what's wrong before quoting. If they say "we'll have to open it up and see" without any preliminary diagnosis, that's concerning.

Ask: "Can you explain what you think is wrong based on my symptoms?"

2. Board-Level Repair Capability

Many shops only swap parts - they can't actually repair a logic board. This matters because board swapping is expensive and may not preserve your data.

Ask: "Do you do component-level logic board repair, or only board replacement?"

3. Transparent Pricing

Good shops publish their prices or give clear quotes before work begins. Vague "it depends" answers or refusal to quote suggests you might face surprise charges.

Ask: "Can I get a written quote before you start?"

4. Proper Warranty

Industry standard is 12 months on repairs. Anything less than 90 days is a red flag. Warranty should cover both parts and labour.

Ask: "What warranty do you provide and what does it cover?"

5. Clear Communication

They should explain what's wrong in terms you understand, not hide behind jargon. If they can't explain it simply, they might not understand it themselves.

Ask: "Can you explain what failed and why?"

6. Reviews and Reputation

Check Google reviews, Trustpilot, and social media. Look for specific mentions of Mac repair, not just general phone repair.

7. Data Handling Policy

Your Mac contains your life. A good shop has clear policies about data privacy and can explain how they handle your information.

Ask: "What's your data privacy policy? Do you access my files?"

Red Flags to Avoid

❌ No Quote Until After Repair

"We'll tell you the cost when it's done" is unacceptable. You should always know the maximum cost before agreeing to repair.

❌ Pressure to Decide Immediately

"This price is only valid today" or similar pressure tactics suggest desperation, not quality.

❌ Can't Explain the Problem

If they can't tell you what's actually wrong, they're guessing - and you'll pay for their guesses.

❌ Only Offers Board Replacement

For logic board issues, "you need a new board" without attempting diagnosis suggests limited capability.

❌ No Physical Shop

Be cautious of "repair services" operating only through mail with no physical location you can visit.

❌ Warranty Under 90 Days

Short warranties suggest lack of confidence in their work.

❌ Won't Show Old Parts

A reputable shop will offer to show you (or return) replaced parts. Refusal suggests parts might not have been replaced.

Questions to Ask Before Committing

1. What do you think is wrong based on my symptoms?
2. Can I get a written quote before you start?
3. What's your warranty and what does it cover?
4. Do you do board-level repair or only board replacement?
5. How long have you been repairing Macs specifically?
6. What happens if you can't fix it?
7. How do you handle my data?
8. Can I see/keep the old parts?

Apple vs Independent: When to Choose Each

Choose Apple When:

• Your Mac is under warranty or AppleCare+
• You need a simple repair and don't mind the cost
• Your employer requires Apple-authorised repair

Choose Independent When:

• Your Mac is out of warranty
• Apple quotes a high price or refuses repair
• You need data preserved (especially T2/Apple Silicon)
• Your Mac is older (Apple may refuse service)
• You want board-level repair instead of board swap

Why celltech?

• Since 1999: Over 25 years of Mac repair experience
• Board-level capability: We repair, not just replace
• Transparent pricing: Published prices, quotes before work
• 27-month warranty: On all repairs, parts and labour
• Free diagnosis: We tell you what's wrong at no cost
• UK-wide service: Free mail-in from anywhere in the UK

Get in touch: 07700 143573 or book online

Good News

Not sure yet? Bring your Mac in for a free diagnosis. We'll tell you exactly what's wrong and quote for repair - no obligation, no pressure.