My late 2008 MBP suffers from screen flicker on the energy efficient graphics setting. It got to a point where the Missus complained, so I took advantage of Applecare and had the machine looked at. I had amazing service from the assistant at the Genius Bar, who not only took me seriously, but exceeded my expectations of what they would repair/replace on my machine, to whit he:

• replaced the entire lid of my machine (in case it was s a screen issue), which also got rid of a tiny discoloured patch in my display…
• replaced the logic board (in case it was a graphics card issue)
• replaced my battery (old and flabby, and had developed a fault)

A week and a half later, I got the call to pick it up from the store and got very good service from the staff member who made sure I checked the problem was repaired (as much as possible with a five minute glance) and was very courteous throughout; however at home I found out I’d also received the following not-so-amazing service from Apple:

• they’d replaced a 2008 lid with a 2009 lid, which meant the screen wouldn’t sleep (magnet switch swapped sides)
• the serial number burnt to the logic board was incorrect (and belonged to an iMac)

Took it back to the Apple store and got very good service from the staff at the Genius Bar; I received profuse apologies on the quality of the service given earlier, I was assured of quick service as it was a corrective repair, and it was, in general a very cordial visit.

I waited three weeks for it to be turned around, and picked it up from a staff member who didn’t really seem to care much, other than uttering the odd cool catchphrase. No recognition that it was a corrective repair. No awareness of the issues I had raised on the repair sheet. No ‘check it through before you go - sorry it’s the second time round.’

My late 2008 MBP suffers from screen flicker on the energy efficient graphics setting. But, I now have a blemish-free screen and new battery.

Applecare is awesome.

Service turnaround is meh.

In-store staff really make a difference to the customer experience. I wish I had been served by the last guy first, and the first guy last. That last guy gave the customer service I remember the most.