Apple currently unable to repair 2019 MacBooks
Apple Stores/Service Centers are unable to repair 2019 MacBooks due to a bug in their Configuration Support Tools. As a result, they are unable to link logic boards and top panels with TouchID sensors.
They are expecting this delay to be up to 6 business days, and are holding all repairs across Canada (perhaps beyond) as a result.
Posted Oct 22, 2019, 4:22 PM UTC
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Where are you getting this info? I am an ACMT and have access to GSX and can find nothing specifically about the 2019 MacBook Air. I do see a Tech article that warns not to run Configurator 2 on a Catalina-installed T2-enabled machine before completing the required System Configuration task(s) as it will hose the MLB. But that's quite different from what you're describing.
I'm getting this from a call with Apple in Toronto, so I may be describing it wrong.
From the call, they told me they discovered an issue last night that affects all repair locations, and they are unable to link my new topboard and logic board. I have a MacBook Air 2019, running Catalina, with T2. They said the repair will result in the machine becoming bricked, since the configuration tool needed to link them is non-functional, and would be for up to 6 business days.
Hmm...it's possible. Apple is doing major changes to GSX and ATLAS as we speak. It's possible something broke the System Configuration Utility, but I haven't seen this reported anywhere else yet. I don't have a FUBAR machine right now to test SCU myself. But yes, if they can't get SCU to complete, the machine will be effectively bricked until they can complete this task.
I did another reply to my post, but this has been confirmed to hit all 2018-2019 MacBooks with a T2 chip that have gone to Catalina. Not all repair centres are aware yet.
UPDATE from Apple: This was discovered late Sunday night, and impacts all machines on Catalina. As to why GSX hasn't been updated, they're going to check now and escalate.
This impacts all 2018-2019 MacBooks that have gone to Catalina and have a T2.
Also an ACMT at an Apple retail location (waiting for my flair request to be approved)
MCU (Mac Configuration Utility) is not configured to work with new devices (that have T2 chip) running Catalina (I can go into more detail on this if you like). If we have to perform a repair that requires system configuration we also have to replace the main logic board. MCU needs to be updated and we have received word that an update to MCU will be applied on Oct 28th to fix this issue affecting repairs on T2 chip portables running Catalina. So it seems like you’re gonna have to sit tight and wait for that update to MCU.
:(
In the US there's guidance to not hold repairs and instead order MLB's to keep repairs moving
Yes, that’s what my store is doing. But who knows at this point, wouldn’t be the first time a store did something different than what’s recommended by the higher ups lol