Before anyone can quote you accurately for a MacBook repair, they need to know exactly which machine you have. Two MacBooks that look identical from across a desk can take completely different display assemblies and batteries. Here is how to identify yours in under a minute.
The quickest way: the number on the underside
Close the MacBook and turn it over. In small text near the regulatory markings you will find a code starting with the letter A followed by four digits — A2337, A2681, A2442 and so on.
That is the model number, and it is the single most useful thing you can tell a repairer. It identifies the exact machine, which means we can confirm the part and the price before you travel anywhere.
If the text has worn off
It happens, especially on machines that have lived in bags for years. Two alternatives:
- About This Mac. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner, then About This Mac. It gives you the model name and year.
- The serial number. Also in About This Mac. Apple’s Check Coverage page identifies the exact machine from it, along with its warranty status.
If the MacBook will not power on at all, the A-number on the case is the one that still works — and if that has gone too, bring it in. We can identify it from the case and internals.
Common MacBook models and their numbers
| Model | Apple model number |
|---|---|
| MacBook Air 13″ (M1, 2020) | A2337 |
| MacBook Air 13″ (M2, 2022) | A2681 |
| MacBook Air 15″ (M2, 2023) | A2941 |
| MacBook Air 13″ (M3, 2024) | A3113 |
| MacBook Air 15″ (M3, 2024) | A3240 |
| MacBook Air 13″ (Intel, 2018-2020) | A2179 · A1932 |
| MacBook Pro 13″ (M1/M2) | A2338 |
| MacBook Pro 14″ (M1 Pro/Max, 2021) | A2442 |
| MacBook Pro 16″ (M1 Pro/Max, 2021) | A2485 |
| MacBook Pro 14″ (M2 Pro/Max, 2023) | A2779 |
| MacBook Pro 16″ (M2 Pro/Max, 2023) | A2780 |
| MacBook Pro 14″ (M3, 2023) | A2992 |
| MacBook Pro 16″ (M3, 2023) | A2991 |
| MacBook Pro 14″ (M4, 2024) | A3185 |
| MacBook Pro 16″ (M4, 2024) | A3403 |
The complete list, including older Intel models back to 2015, is on our MacBook screen replacement page.
Why it matters so much for parts
A 13-inch MacBook Air from 2020 and one from 2022 look nearly the same and take different display assemblies. Order by appearance and you get the wrong part, a wasted trip, or worse — a part fitted that does not properly support features like True Tone.
Quoting the A-number removes all of that. It is also how you check whether a quote you have been given elsewhere is for the right part at all. If you are weighing up parts options, our guide to OEM vs aftermarket screens covers what actually differs.
What to have ready when you book
- The A-number from the underside, or the serial number
- What is actually wrong, in your own words
- Whether anything was spilt on it, even weeks ago
- Whether anyone has opened it before
- Your passcode, if we may need to test or recover data
With those five things we can usually give you a realistic answer before you leave the house.
Bring it in
Diagnosis is free at Burwood and Newtown, with free pickup and delivery for Parramatta customers. The quote is fixed before any work begins and every repair carries a six-month warranty. Not sure what is wrong? Our guide to screen faults versus logic board faults is a good place to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the model number on a MacBook?
On the underside of the case, in small text near the regulatory markings. It starts with the letter A followed by four digits — for example A2337.
How do I find my model without turning the MacBook over?
Click the Apple menu, then About This Mac. It shows the model name and year. For the exact A-number, the underside or the serial number lookup is more reliable.
What if the text on the bottom has worn off?
Use the serial number instead. Apple menu, About This Mac, then look for the serial. Apple’s own Check Coverage page will identify the machine from it.
My MacBook will not turn on. How do I identify it?
The A-number on the underside works whether or not the machine powers on. If that has worn away, bring it in — we can identify it from the case and internals.
Why does the exact model matter for a repair?
Because parts are model-specific. Two MacBooks that look identical can take different display assemblies, batteries and cables. Quoting the A-number means we confirm the part and price before you travel in.
Is the A-number the same as the serial number?
No. The A-number identifies the model — thousands of machines share it. The serial number identifies your individual machine.
Do Air and Pro models share A-numbers?
No, each model has its own. Some models have more than one A-number across regions or configurations.
What if I have an older MacBook not listed here?
We repair every MacBook Air and MacBook Pro from 2015 onward. The full list of models and numbers is on our MacBook screen replacement page.
Does knowing the model tell me the repair price?
It gets you most of the way. The final price also depends on the fault and the parts grade, which is why diagnosis is free and the quote is fixed before work starts.
Can you identify my MacBook over the phone?
Usually, if you can read us the A-number from the underside or the serial number. That is the quickest way to get an accurate answer before you come in.
