If your MacBook Pro 14-inch M1 (2021, Model A2442) suddenly refuses to turn on, you’re not alone. Over the last few months, we’ve been seeing this exact issue quite frequently from customers across Bangalore and other parts of India.
Let’s break down what’s happening, why it occurs, and how it can be fixed without losing your data.
The Problem: MacBook Completely Dead
In this case, the MacBook showed:
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No power
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No display
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No charging indication
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Stuck at 5V, 0.29mA current draw
To a user, it looks like the MacBook is completely dead. Many people are told the logic board must be replaced, which can cost a fortune.
But the real issue is more specific—and fixable.
Why This Is Happening in 2021 & Newer MacBook Pros
This problem is becoming common in 2021 and later MacBook Pro models, especially those with USB-C / Thunderbolt ports.
Here’s the main reason:
➡️ USB-C ports keep supplying power even when the MacBook is not actively in use
If you:
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Leave USB-C hubs connected all the time
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Keep external devices plugged in continuously
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Leave chargers, dongles, or displays connected overnight
The MacBook continues to supply 5V power to the USB-C port, which puts constant load on the charging circuit.
Over time, this unwanted load damages critical components.
What Actually Fails Inside the MacBook
When a USB-C port fails on a MacBook, it’s not just the port.
In this case, two major components were damaged:
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UG400 – Proprietary Apple Charge Port Controller
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This chip controls charging and power negotiation
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It is programmed, not a simple plug-and-play part
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5V USB Buck Converter
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Responsible for stepping down and regulating voltage
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When these fail:
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The MacBook won’t power on
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Charging stops completely
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The device appears “dead”
The Fix: Component-Level Repair (Not Board Replacement)
Instead of replacing the entire logic board, we performed a chip-level repair:
✔️ Replaced the UG400 charge controller
✔️ Replaced the 5V USB buck converter
✔️ Restored proper power flow
Result?
✅ MacBook turned on normally
✅ All data remained intact
✅ Client saved a huge amount of money
No data loss. No unnecessary board replacement.
💰 Approximate Repair vs Apple Authorised Cost (India)
Here’s a realistic idea of what repairs typically cost in India. These aren’t exact quotes from Apple, but general ballpark figures you’ll see across Bangalore/India:
💡 Chip-Level Repair (USB Power & Controller)
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Independent specialist like HelloRe : ₹8,000 – ₹28,000 (varies by model/complexity)
👉 This includes replacing failed chips — not full board replacement.
🍎 Apple Authorised Logic Board / Motherboard Replacement
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Apple-level genuine board swap typically starts from approximately ₹25,000+ and can go up to ₹70,000 or more for newer Pro models, depending on the exact model year and parts availability.
💡 Note: Apple authorised pricing varies widely, usually higher than third-party chip-level repair.
Why This Matters for MacBook Users in India
In India, especially in cities like Bangalore, many service centers:
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Recommend full logic board replacement
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Quote extremely high repair costs
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Don’t offer component-level repairs
But in many cases like this, board replacement is NOT required.
A proper diagnosis by an experienced MacBook repair specialist can:
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Save your data
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Reduce repair costs drastically
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Extend the life of your MacBook
How to Avoid This Issue in the Future
To protect your MacBook:
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❌ Don’t leave USB-C hubs or accessories connected all the time
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❌ Avoid keeping peripherals plugged in when not in use
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✅ Disconnect accessories when shutting down or sleeping
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✅ Use good-quality chargers and hubs
These small habits can prevent expensive power-related failures.
Final Thoughts
If your MacBook Pro M1 (2021) is not turning on, don’t panic—and don’t rush into a logic board replacement.
This issue is repairable, your data can be saved, and the cost can be much lower when handled correctly.
If you’re in Bangalore or anywhere in India, always look for a repair center that specializes in chip-level MacBook repairs and proper power diagnostics.
Your MacBook might just need the right fix—not a replacement. - Contact Us
