Question about water damage to upper case

Question

Hey everybody.
I recently sent in the MacBook that I got a year ago for repairs. Apple determined that there was water damage to the logic board, battery, and "top case,", which, while disappointing, was not altogether surprising since a few days earlier I had coughed a mouthful of water all over the computer.
Anyway, I'm resigned to replacing the logic board and battery (although not through Apple - too expensive!), but I'm curious as to what, exactly, water damage to the upper case (I'm assuming that's the same as the top case) would be. The upper case is simply the plastic area with the keyboard and trackpad, correct? If it's plastic ... how can there be water damage? Or, perhaps more importantly, if I replace the battery and logic board, will the water damage to the upper case prevent me from using the MacBook? I suppose the keyboard/trackpad could be affected, but is that necessarily the case?
I don't care if the computer looks pretty - I just want it to work. I can get the case for $50 off eBay; considering that the logic board will set me back $450, that's not THAT bad, but it's still $50 I'd rather, you know, spend on the logic board. Without which I am positive that my computer will not work.
Anyway, thanks for any input/help, and may you be luckier in the timing of your coughs than I.

Answer 1

The top case consists of the keyboard, trackpad, and power button. There is some electronic circuitry in there, which is likely what Apple was referring to as being damaged. I am not aware of such a "liquid sensor"....sounds more like a conspiracy theory to me. Liquid damage typically manifests itself as corrosion on the logic board, which is fairly easy to detect in a visual inspection. Other clues might be stains/discoloration from residue in the liquid, or perhaps the overwhelming smell of the beer.....
As to your second question, my understanding is that you voided your warranty when you got water on your computer. I do not believe that the warranty is "restored" after a non-warranty repair, although depending on your location, local laws may dictate something different.
The repair work specific to your current situation may be warrantied, but you should ask and find out for yourself. I don't believe you will be covered for any other potential future defects in the computer.
This is one reason why I typically don't buy into the whole extended warranty thing - especially for portable electronics. In the vast majority of cases, it's simply a cash cow for the party selling it. And since laptops are much more prone to accidents that would result in voided warranties, I personally feel the risk of losing the money you invest in an extended warranty is too high.
Now, if Apple offered a comprehensive replacement policy on their laptops(that covered accidents), I would most definitely consider investing in that kind of protection plan.
Message was edited by: Shaggywerewolf