In a welcome shift for MacBook Pro users without AppleCare, repairing blown speakers is about to become significantly more affordable. Previously, if you damaged a speaker, your options were limited: either tolerate the malfunctioning audio or shell out a hefty sum for a repair that involved replacing the entire top case—a costly fix, since this component houses the battery, keyboard, and other essential parts.

Back in 2022, The Verge uncovered that replacement of the top case could land you a bill ranging from a staggering $527.12 to $615.12. However, Apple appears to be changing its approach to repairs, especially for the latest models of the MacBook Pro.

According to a memo unveiled by MacRumors, Apple is introducing individual speaker parts for the new 14 and 16-inch M4 MacBook Pro series. This marks the first time since 2015 that Apple has made speaker replacements available separately, providing a significant financial relief for customers facing speaker issues.

But there’s even more good news! Reports indicate that Apple plans to extend this offering, providing individual speaker repair parts for all Apple Silicon MacBook Pro models, including earlier M1 Pro and M1 Max versions. This change not only affects repairs at Apple Stores and authorized service centers; the tech giant is also hinting at broader access to these parts through its self-service repair store.

For those considering a DIY fix, it’s important to note that the repair process isn’t without its challenges. Removing old speakers involves cutting through strong adhesive, and the procedure revolves around delicate areas like the battery and logic board. Replacement speakers include a single-use battery cover, emphasizing that this repair isn’t for amateurs.

Nonetheless, even with the challenges of a DIY job, the bottom line is that speaker repairs will soon be much less burdensome financially. While maintaining your AppleCare coverage for ultimate peace of mind remains advisable, the days of exorbitant repair costs for blown speakers are fading. Stay tuned for more updates as Apple continues to refine its repair policies, ensuring greater accessibility and affordability for MacBook Pro users across the board!