2011 macbook air hinge question

[tim100]

I have i7 2011 13 inch macbook air. I noticed about a week ago that there is some play in the center of the hinge when the machine is closed. If you push on the center of the hinge there is a small bit of play when the machine is closed. The hinge seems tight when opening and closing the machine. The looseness is only in the center of the hinge. I looked at my macbook pro hinge and there is no play. Anyone else see this?

 

[TheRealDamager]

Does it matter since you have the lid closed at the time?

 

[tim100]

Does it matter since you have the lid closed at the time?

is it a sign of hinge failure?

 

[TheRealDamager]

No idea. But if you aren't experiencing any hinge problems, what makes you think the hinge might be failing?

 

[ChiantiSteve]

Watch out for this - it could be the start of big trouble.
Mine started doing that then there was play when it was open. Then a bit of the plastic linking the 2 hinges broke near each end. Then the screen started going all red or all blue. Then the hinge collapsed completely flat and the display disappeared. I could export the display to a TV then that went. Now it doesn't even boot.
The quote to fix it was ridiculous - cheaper to buy a new one.
After my experience I'd have Apple take a look.