iMac Repair Guide UK: Screen, SSD & More (2026)

Pro Tip

Key Takeaways:

• • iMacs are repairable but require specialist knowledge due to the glued-on display
• • Storage and RAM upgrades are possible on many models (2012-2020 Intel)
• • The 24" M1 iMac has almost zero user-serviceable parts
• • Screen repairs are expensive due to the display adhesive process
• • HDD to SSD upgrade transforms older iMacs—often better than replacement

The iMac is Apple's iconic all-in-one desktop. Beautiful design, but that integration means repairs aren't as straightforward as a traditional desktop PC. The screen is held on with industrial adhesive, and components are packed tightly behind it.

That said, iMacs are absolutely repairable—and often worth repairing. A 2017 iMac with an SSD upgrade and fresh thermal paste runs beautifully. Here's everything you need to know about iMac repairs in the UK.

iMac Models & Repairability

Screen Repairs

iMac screen repairs are complex because the display is adhered with industrial tape. Removal requires special tools, careful heating, and precision. Replacement requires new adhesive strips and perfect alignment.

• Cracked glass - £299 - £449 for most models
• LCD damage - £399 - £699 depending on model and resolution
• Complete display assembly - £499 - £799

Warning

DIY warning: iMac screen removal is not a beginner repair. The glass can shatter, cables are delicate, and incorrect reassembly causes issues. This is one repair best left to professionals.

Storage Upgrades & Repairs

The single best upgrade for any older iMac is replacing the spinning hard drive with an SSD—similar to MacBook SSD upgrades. A 2015 iMac with a 5400rpm HDD feels painfully slow. Add an SSD, and it feels like a new machine.

• HDD to SSD upgrade - £149 - £299 (including SSD)
• Fusion Drive repair - £99 - £199
• SSD upgrade (existing) - £199 - £399 (larger capacity)
• External SSD boot - Budget option, £99 - £149 setup (good for data recovery too)

RAM Upgrades

27" iMacs have a user-accessible RAM door—you can upgrade yourself in minutes. 21.5" models have soldered RAM (no upgrade possible on most models). See our RAM upgrade guide for the full details on Mac memory upgrades.

Power Supply Issues

iMac power supplies can fail, causing the machine to not turn on or randomly shut down. Symptoms include:

• No power at all (completely dead)
• Turns on briefly then shuts off
• Random shutdowns under load (similar to kernel panic symptoms)
• Burning smell or visible damage

Power supply replacement typically costs £149 - £249 including parts and labour. Some power issues are actually caused by faulty capacitors on the logic board, which can be repaired at component level.

Logic Board Repairs

iMac logic boards are expensive from Apple (often £500-800+). Independent component-level repair can fix many issues for a fraction of the cost:

• GPU failure - Common on 2011-2013 models, £199 - £349 board-level repair
• Liquid damage - Variable, £199 - £449 depending on extent
• USB/port issues - Often repairable, £99 - £199
• No power (board-level) - £149 - £299

UK Repair Costs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth upgrading an old iMac?

For iMacs from 2015-2019, absolutely. An SSD upgrade transforms performance—just like fixing a slow MacBook. For older models (2012-2014), it depends on your needs—they're still capable but won't run the latest macOS.

Can you upgrade the 24" M1/M3 iMac?

No. RAM and storage are part of the Apple Silicon package. What you buy is what you get. Always spec more storage than you think you'll need.

How long do iMacs typically last?

With good care and appropriate upgrades, 7-10 years is achievable. We regularly service iMacs from 2012-2015 that are still going strong with SSD upgrades.

Should I repair or replace my iMac?

If repair costs exceed 50% of a comparable replacement, consider replacing. But factor in the time to set up a new machine and migrate data—sometimes repair makes sense even at higher costs. See our repair vs replace decision framework.