Apple Updates Self Service Repair Program with macOS Tahoe
Apple has recently updated its Self Service Repair Program following the release of macOS Tahoe. This update changes how you can use the program going forward.
From now on, repairs involving selected parts and models must be performed on devices running macOS Tahoe. These systems are required for the replacement part to be correctly paired and configured via Repair Assistant.
What Parts and Models Require macOS Tahoe to Configure a Repair?
Here is a list of models and parts that need macOS Tahoe to configure the repair of the device.
Mac mini parts
| Model year | Antenna connector board | Logic board |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | ✓ | ✓ |
| 2023 | X | ✓ |
| 2020 | X | ✓ |
Mac Studio parts
| Model year | Logic board |
|---|---|
| 2025 | ✓ |
| 2023 | ✓ |
| 2022 | ✓ |
Mac Pro parts
| Model year | Top I/O board or Front I/O board | Logic board |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | ✓ | ✓ |
MacBook Pro parts
| Model year | Lid angle sensor | Touch ID board | Display | Top case (with Touch Bar) | Logic board |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | X | ✓ |
| 2023 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | X | ✓ |
| 2022 | X | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 2021 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | X | ✓ |
| 2020 | X | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
MacBook Air parts
| Model year | Lid angle sensor | Touch ID board | Display | Logic board |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 2024 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 2023 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 2022 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 2020 | X | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
iMac parts
| Model year | Display | Logic board |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | ✓ | ✓ |
| 2023 | ✓ | ✓ |
| 2021 | ✓ | ✓ |
Why Did Apple Make This Change?
Apple introduced this requirement because macOS Tahoe streamlines the process of pairing replacement parts, ordered via Apple's Self Service Program, with a device. The new OS allows Apple’s system to recognise and authenticate components more reliably than earlier macOS versions, allowing full functionality using macOS Tahoe’s Repair Assistant.
How to Upgrade to macOS Tahoe
Follow these simple steps and check if your Mac is compatible with macOS Tahoe before upgrading.
Upgrade Steps
- Check your Mac model and year below to confirm compatibility.
- Ensure your Mac is connected to power and Wi-Fi.
- Go to System Settings > General > Software Update.
- Select Upgrade Now under macOS Tahoe and follow the prompts.
MacBook Air
| Model Year | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| 2025 | ✓ |
| 2024 | ✓ |
| 2023 | ✓ |
| 2022 | ✓ |
| 2020 | ✓ |
| 2019 | X |
MacBook Pro
| Model Year | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| 2025 | ✓ |
| 2024 | ✓ |
| 2023 | ✓ |
| 2022 | ✓ |
| 2021 | ✓ |
| 2020 | ✓ |
| 2019 (16-inch) | ✓ |
| 2018 | X |
iMac
| Model Year | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| 2024 | ✓ |
| 2023 | ✓ |
| 2021 | ✓ |
| 2020 | ✓ |
| 2019 | X |
Mac mini
| Model Year | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| 2024 | ✓ |
| 2023 | ✓ |
| 2020 | ✓ |
| 2018 | X |
Mac Studio
| Model Year | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| 2025 | ✓ |
| 2023 | ✓ |
| 2022 | ✓ |
Mac Pro
| Model Year | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| 2023 | ✓ |
| 2019 | ✓ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need macOS Tahoe to use the Self Service Repair Program?
While not all repairs require it, many now do. Certain repair procedures must be completed on macOS Tahoe to ensure replacement parts are properly paired and configured using Repair Assistant.
What happens if I install a part on a Mac running an older macOS version?
The replacement part may not function correctly or complete configuration until the device is upgraded to macOS Tahoe. Apple strongly recommends performing the upgrade before attempting any repairs, as certain features such as True Tone, when repairing a display, may be affected.
Is macOS Tahoe free to upgrade?
Yes. macOS Tahoe is a free software update available through Apple’s Software Update system. See if your Mac is compatible, here.
