My macbook 2008 screen went black a few months ago. I've been using it with a monitor. Today it's working. I have a feeling it's going to die at any time. Is it possible that a software patch fixed this ? Is there a utility I can run to test the screen ?

Model : Macbook 2008
Symptoms: The screen was, intermittently, going black last year and then went black completely. I have been using it on a monitor ever since.
I can see the screen with a flashlight.
I completely erased the drive and loaded OSx 10.7. I believe that's the last version of OSx Mac will be supporting on this computer.
When I booted up the computer this morning the screen came on !
While typing this question, my screen went black again, not to return.
So sad.
I did bring it to Apple and they believed the entire screen needed to be replaced.
They say that they tried a new inverter and it didn't work.
I have a feeling I'm just out of luck unless I want to cough up the $300 to fix the screen.
Although it is a solid machine, 2Ghz processor with 4 gigs of ram, it is still six years old.
I imagine that's like putting a new transmission in a 95 Honda civic. Yeah, it's a reliable car but it's old and it's probably going to break again.
I love my mac so much but I can't justify buying a new one or  paying to fix this old one.
I have a Gateway dual booting Windows 7 and ubuntu linux that's actually pretty slick and has taken it's place on business trips and coffee shop excursions.
If anyone has any thoughts or feedback I'd appreciate it.

The current Apple hardware warranty provides the following coverage for replacement parts:
A replacementpart or product, including a user-installable part that has been installed in accordance withinstructions provided by Apple, assumes the remaining warranty of the Apple Product orninety (90) days from the date of replacement or repair, whichever provides longer coveragefor you.
Check your particular warranty and see where you stand as to the period of coverage.
Good luck,
Ray

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