iMac 21.5 inch repair, 2012 to 2019
The slim 21.5 inch iMac is in homes, studios and reception desks all over London. By now most of them are simply slow, and that is very fixable.
From late 2012 the iMac's display has been bonded to the case with adhesive, so every internal repair starts with cutting the screen free and ends with fitting new adhesive strips. Most 21.5 inch models were sold with a slow laptop-sized hard drive.
Models covered
- 21.5-inch, Late 2012, Late 2013 and Mid 2014
- Model A1418
- 21.5-inch and Retina 4K, Late 2015
- Model A1418
- 21.5-inch and Retina 4K, 2017
- Model A1418
- Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2019
- Model A2116
Faults we fix
- Very slow to start and open apps
- Flashing folder with a question mark
- Won't power on
- Lines, shadows or image retention on the screen
- Fan running loudly
- Fusion Drive failed or split
- Cracked glass
- Wi-Fi or Bluetooth faults
Repairs and upgrades
- SSD upgrade with your system and files cloned across
- Hard drive and Fusion Drive replacement
- Memory upgrade, where the model allows it
- Display replacement
- Power supply replacement
- Logic board repair
- Fan replacement and internal clean
- macOS reinstall
- Data recovery from failed drives
- Data transfer to a new Mac
Why it is slow, and the cure
The 5,400rpm hard drive fitted to most of these iMacs was slow when new and gets slower with age. Replacing it with an SSD, with your system and files cloned across, is the single most effective upgrade for this iMac.
Memory on the 21.5 inch
Unlike the 27 inch iMac, this one has no memory door. On some years the memory is in slots behind the logic board and can be upgraded while the screen is off. On the Mid 2014 and Late 2015 models it is soldered and can't be changed. Tell us the year and we'll confirm.
Not the right model? See all iMac models by year.
Common questions
Is it worth upgrading an old 21.5 inch iMac?
If the screen is good and it still runs the software you need, an SSD upgrade is usually very good value. We'll check it over for free first.
Can you recover files from an iMac that won't start?
In most cases, yes. The drive can be removed and read directly. See Mac data recovery.
Can you collect my iMac from Fulham or Central London?
Collection and return can be arranged for homes and offices across Fulham and Central London. Ask when you call 020 7237 6805 and we'll confirm what's possible for your postcode. You're also welcome to bring it to the workshop at Willow Walk, SE1, Monday to Saturday.
Is the repair guaranteed?
Yes. Parts we fit and motherboard repairs carry a 90-day warranty. If the same fault comes back in that time, bring the machine in and we'll put it right.