Screen backlight dying out on 2009 iMac

[Aleran]

It would appear that the screen backlight is going out on my family member's early 2009 24" iMac. Even with the brightness set to maximum the screen is not as bright as it used to be.

Anyone have experience with this? Is this something that is repairable? If so, what would it take to repair it?

 

[SaSaSushi]

If it is a failing backlight, the best bet would be to replace the LCD panel entirely. It's a fairly easy process on the Early 2009 iMacs. All you need are some suction cups and a few Torx screwdrivers.

Just follow the iFixit Guide.

Then, of course, you need a replacement panel. You can probably find one on eBay. The part number appears to be 661-4989, so you could also Google that if you prefer getting one from a more reputable retail source.

 

[Aleran]

Thanks for the response SaSaSushi.

How confident are you that replacing the LCD panel is the right fix versus replacing the LCD inverter board?

 

[DeltaMac]

The Early 2009 24-inch iMac does not have a separate inverter board. It's part of the LCD panel.