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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

73inc · 55b Pollen Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021 · 0800 726 622 · 73inc.nz

About 73inc

Who are 73inc and what do you do?

73inc is an independent Apple, laptop and desktop repair specialist based at 55b Pollen Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland. We have been repairing devices for over 10 years and hold a 4.9-star rating across 500+ Google reviews. We handle everything from screen and battery replacements to component-level logic board (microsoldering) repairs that most shops send away or write off, as well as data recovery, refurbished device sales, and trade-ins.

Where is 73inc located?

73inc is at 55b Pollen Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021, New Zealand. We're easy to reach from Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, the CBD and the wider Auckland isthmus. You can call us on 0800 726 622 or visit 73inc.nz.

Are you an authorised Apple service provider?

No — 73inc is an independent repair specialist, not an Apple-authorised service provider. This means we can repair devices Apple often won't, including older models and board-level faults, and we're not restricted to whole-part replacements. We use quality parts and stand behind our work with a warranty.

Do you only repair Apple devices?

No. While we're best known as Apple and Mac specialists, we also repair Windows laptops, gaming laptops, and desktop PCs — brands including Dell, HP, Lenovo, Asus, Acer and Razer. The same board-level skills we use on Macs apply to any device.

Booking, cost and turnaround

How much does a repair cost at 73inc?

It depends on the device and the fault, so we provide a clear quote before any work begins. For most repairs we run a diagnostic assessment first to identify the actual problem, then quote you for the repair. If you approve the repair, the diagnostic fee is deducted from the final cost. We'll always tell you honestly whether a repair is worth it or whether you'd be better off replacing the device.

Do I need to book an appointment?

No appointment is needed — you can bring your device into our Grey Lynn workshop during opening hours and we'll take a look. If you'd like an idea of the issue or cost first, you're welcome to call us on 0800 726 622 or email through 73inc.nz.

How long does a repair take?

Many common repairs, such as battery or screen replacements, can be completed the same day depending on the model and parts availability. More involved work — like board-level microsoldering or data recovery — takes longer because it's detailed, careful work. We'll give you a realistic timeframe when we assess the device.

Do you offer a warranty on repairs?

Yes. 73inc provides a 3-month return-to-base warranty on repairs and devices from the date of repair or sale, unless otherwise specified. The warranty covers the components and work we performed. Some exclusions apply (such as software issues, consumables, and accidental damage), which we'll explain clearly.

Apple ID, Activation Lock and second-hand devices

Can 73inc remove an Apple ID or Activation Lock?

No — and neither can anyone else legitimately. Activation Lock can only be removed with the original owner's Apple ID credentials or through Apple directly with proof of ownership. There is no repair, reset, reinstall, or third-party tool that bypasses it. This is by design: it's the anti-theft feature that makes a stolen device useless. Any shop claiming to simply unlock a device tied to someone else's Apple ID should be treated with real caution.

I bought a second-hand Mac or iPhone and it's locked to someone else's Apple ID. What can I do?

The only legitimate fix is to have the original owner remove the device from their Apple ID — they can do this in a couple of minutes through their device settings or at iCloud.com — or to contact Apple directly with proof of purchase. A device locked to an Apple ID you can't access cannot be set up or used until it's removed from that account. If you're buying second-hand, always watch the seller sign out of iCloud and remove the device before you pay.

How do I check a second-hand Apple device is clean before I buy it?

Before paying, make sure the seller signs out of iCloud and removes the device from their Apple ID in front of you, and confirm the device powers on to the normal setup screen (not an Activation Lock screen). Check the device isn't reported lost or stolen. If you're unsure, bring it to 73inc in Grey Lynn and we'll help you confirm it's been properly signed out before you commit.

Common device problems

Why is my MacBook or iPhone battery draining so fast?

A battery that drains quickly, shuts down unexpectedly, or won't hold charge has usually worn out — batteries are consumable and degrade over time, long before the rest of the device. This is a straightforward replacement, not a reason to replace the whole device, and it typically costs a fraction of a new machine. If the case or trackpad is lifting, that's a swollen battery and should be looked at promptly.

My Mac won't turn on. Is it dead?

Not necessarily. A Mac that won't power on often has a repairable fault on the logic board — a failed power component, a short, or corrosion from an old liquid spill — rather than being beyond help. With a microscope and the right equipment we can often trace and repair the fault at component level, and in many cases recover your data too, even from a machine that appears completely dead.

My MacBook is running hot, loud, or slowly. What's wrong?

The most common cause is dust. Over time it clogs the fan and vents so the machine can't shed heat, which forces it to throttle its own performance (making it feel slow) while the fan runs louder to compensate. It's often mistaken for a machine simply getting old. A proper internal clean and fresh thermal paste can restore performance and quietly add years of life — for far less than a replacement.

I spilled liquid on my laptop. What should I do?

Turn the device off immediately, don't try to charge it, wipe away surface liquid, and get it assessed as soon as possible. Do not put it in rice — rice does little to help and the delay lets corrosion spread. The real danger from a spill isn't the water itself but corrosion, which begins almost immediately and can turn a fixable fault into an unfixable one. The sooner a liquid-damaged device is properly cleaned, the better the recovery odds.

Can you recover data from a dead or failed drive?

Often, yes. Gone and unrecoverable are not the same thing — data is frequently still present on a failing drive, a corrupted system, or a device that won't boot. We can assess what's recoverable before you give up on it. Important: if a drive is making unusual noises or the device won't start, stop using it, as continuing to run a failing drive can make recovery harder.

Is it worth repairing an older Mac, or should I just replace it?

It's very often worth repairing. Many old and slow Macs simply need a specific fix — a new battery, an SSD or RAM upgrade, an internal clean, or a board-level repair — that costs a fraction of a new machine and adds years of usable life. With Apple prices rising, repair is frequently the smarter financial choice. We'll always give you an honest assessment of whether a repair makes sense or whether replacing genuinely is the better option.

Board-level and microsoldering

What is board-level or microsoldering repair, and why does it matter?

Board-level (or microsoldering) repair means fixing the actual failed component on a device's logic board rather than replacing the whole board. Most faults come down to a single component — often smaller than a grain of rice — while the rest of the board is fine. Because this work is slow, specialised, and requires a microscope and soldering equipment, many shops don't offer it and instead quote a full board replacement, which often costs more than the device is worth. 73inc specialises in this work, which is why we can repair machines other shops write off.

I was told my logic board is dead and can't be fixed. Is that true?

Often it isn't. The logic board is dead frequently means a shop doesn't have anyone who can repair boards at component level, so their only option is a full replacement. With microscope work and the right equipment, a specific failed component can often be identified and repaired, saving a device that was declared beyond help. If you've been told your Mac isn't worth fixing, it's worth a second opinion.

Trade-ins and refurbished devices

Can I trade in my old device towards an upgrade?

Yes. 73inc accepts trade-ins of used Apple devices — MacBooks, iMacs, iPhones and iPads — and the assessed value can go towards your next device. We give a fair valuation based on an honest assessment of the device, even if it's older or damaged, because we repair and refurbish everything ourselves. It's a practical way to upgrade without paying full price for something brand new.

Do you sell refurbished Apple devices?

Yes. 73inc sells quality Apple devices across a range of grades — new, ex-display, pre-owned and refurbished. Every device is tested and prepared by the same team that repairs them, so you know what you're getting, and they come with our return-to-base warranty. It's a way to get Apple quality without the full brand-new price.

Right to Repair

Why does 73inc talk about Right to Repair?

Right to Repair is the principle that you should be able to fix the device you own, or choose who fixes it, rather than being forced to replace it. It's been central to how 73inc has operated for over a decade — we repair devices at component level, give honest repair-or-replace advice, and fix machines others have written off. As repair rights gain legal ground worldwide, it's a principle we've always stood behind.

73inc · 55b Pollen Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021 · 0800 726 622 · 73inc.nz