White or Grey Horizontal Lines Appearing on MacBook Screen?
Have strange white or grey lines suddenly appeared on your MacBook screen? These horizontal lines can be frustrating and make your screen hard to use, even if everything works fine. It may look like a small issue, but it could mean something more serious inside your MacBook.
In this blog, we will explain why these MacBook display problems happen and what you can do to fix them. Whether it is a screen error, a MacBook GPU issue, or a loose display cable, we will break it down in simple steps. If you are in the UAE and need help, MacBook Repair Dubai is ready to help you with fast and professional MacBook screen repair.
What Do Horizontal Lines on a MacBook Screen Look Like?
These lines can appear in different ways:
- Thin or thick white/grey lines running across the screen
- Flickering or static-like horizontal bars
- Lines that appear only when moving the screen or adjusting brightness
- Lines are visible even during startup or the login screen.
These symptoms usually point to hardware-related issues, although software can sometimes be the cause.
Common Causes of White or Grey Horizontal Lines
Let’s explore what might be causing these screen problems on your MacBook:
1. Display Cable (Flexgate Issue)
Apple’s thin design often leads to tension in the display cable. On some MacBook models, especially those with Retina displays, the cable connecting the screen to the logic board may wear out due to repeated opening and closing.
Signs
- Lines appear when adjusting the lid
- The display sometimes goes black or flickers.
Fix
- This requires a hardware repair or screen replacement.
- At MRD, we often resolve this by replacing the affected display cable or full-screen assembly.
2. Loose or Damaged Internal Connection
If your MacBook has been dropped or banged, internal display connectors may be torn or torn.
Signs
- Random blinking
- Lines appear irregularly
Fix
- A technician can open the device and secure or replace the connectors.
- This is a quick fix in many cases.
3. Faulty GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
A failing GPU can send distorted signals to the screen, causing white or grey lines.
Signs
- Lines appear on both the built-in and external monitor.
- The screen freezes, crashes, or restarts randomly.
Fix
- In some cases, a logic board repair or replacement may be needed.
- At MRD, we diagnose the GPU using special tools to confirm the issue before repair.
4. Screen Damage or Pressure
Physical damage, even slight pressure, can cause permanent marks, lines, or screen failure.
Signs
- Cracks, bleeding, or discoloration
- Horizontal or vertical lines that do not go away
Fix
- You will likely need a full-screen replacement.
- We use genuine Apple displays to restore clarity and brightness.
5. Software or macOS Glitches (Rare)
Apple’s thin design often leads to tension in the display cable. On some MacBook models, especially those with Retina displays, the cable connecting the screen to the logic board may wear out due to repeated opening and closing.
While rare, software bugs or outdated graphics drivers can cause screen issues.
Fix:
- Restart your Mac in Safe Mode
- Reset NVRAM and SMC
- Update to the latest version of macOS
If the lines disappear in Safe Mode, the issue might be related to third-party software or display drivers.
Quick Troubleshooting Tips
Before you rush to a repair center, try these steps:
- Restart your Mac
- Reset the NVRAM/PRAM
- Boot in Safe Mode
- Connect to an external monitor
- Update macOS
If the problem appears only on the MacBook screen, it is most likely a hardware issue.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you have tried the basic fixes and the lines are still there, it is time for a proper diagnosis. Delaying can lead to further damage or complete screen failure.
At MRD, we offer:
- Free diagnostics
- Original screen replacements
- GPU and logic board repairs
- Fast service across Dubai & UAE
- Warranty on all repairs
We will identify the exact issue and get your MacBook looking and working like new.
Final Thoughts
White or grey horizontal lines on a MacBook screen are often a sign of underlying hardware problems, especially screen cable issues, GPU faults, or panel damage. While some fixes are simple, most require professional tools and expertise.
If you are in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE, MacBook Repair Dubai is your trusted partner for fast, affordable, and reliable MacBook screen repairs.
Book your free checkup today and bring your screen back to life.