If you've ever opened up your MacBook Pro to wake it from sleep only to discover distorted colors on your display that correct themselves after a few seconds, know that you're not alone. The issue seems to affect multiple model years of MacBook Pro, and it doesn't seem to matter whether your computer is refurbished or new.
While it's possible that this issue is the result of a software bug that people are encountering, you can run diagnostics on your MacBook Pro to determine if there is a specific hardware defect that's causing the problem. Here's how you do that.
How to run diagnostics to isolate hardware issues on your Mac
If your Mac is from June 2013 or later, this is how you can run diagnostics.
- Disconnect all external devices from your Mac except for the following when applicable: keyboard, mouse, display, Ethernet connection, and connection to AC power.
- Make sure your MacBook Pro is placed on a flat surface with good ventilation.
- Shut down your MacBook Pro.
- Immediately press the D key on your keyboard when you turn your Mac on again.
- Release the D key when asked to choose a language.
- Choose a language. The diagnostics will automatically take place.
- Note any reference codes that you're given after the diagnostics are complete.
- Choose to run the test again, get more information, restart, or shut down your Mac.
- Click Agree to send while in Recovery mode if you are connected to the internet and clicked Get started. This will send your reference codes and Mac's serial number to Apple.
- Follow the service and support instructions that Apple gives you.
On Macs from before June 2013, you'll use the Apple Hardware Test, which follows the same initial steps as the diagnostics run on newer Macs. After choosing your language, do the following:
- Click the right arrow.
- Click Test.
- Click Restart or Shut Down after reviewing your results.
Realize that if there is a hardware issue detected, you'll likely need to take your MacBook Pro in to be serviced by Apple or an authorized service provider.
Questions
If you have any other questions about troubleshooting color distortion on your MacBook Pro, let us know in the comments.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.

PSA: Send your 4th of July iMessages with fireworks this year
This year, try to remember to use iMessage's cool Send with Fireworks feature when wishing friends and family a happy Independence Day. You've probably thought about doing it after the fact, when it's too late. This year's the year you remember!

Review: 1More Evo earbuds earn their place amongst the top dogs
1More, a globally distributed audio company recently launched the 1More Evo earbuds — their most evolved in-ear headphones to date. Here are the pros and cons of the new powerful earbuds.

iPhone 14 likely to be a big downgrade from iPhone 14 Pro for this reason
Apple is strongly expected to announce its iPhone 14 lineup this fall and a new report adds fuel to existing expectations that at least two of the new handsets won't get a speed boost.

Keep out the crumbs and dust with a keyboard cover for your MacBook Pro
Heard rumblings about the MacBook Pro keyboard being felled by nothing more than a speck of dust? It can happen, so grab one of these keyboard covers and protect your tech.