I'll give you the honest answer straight away, because I'd rather be upfront than string you along: the GHD Eclipse and the round-button Platinum (S8T261) can't be repaired internally — not by me, and not by anyone else. There's one exception, which I'll come to, but if you've got one of these and the fault is internal, no repairer can genuinely fix it. Here's why, how to tell if yours is one of them, and what your options actually are.
Why these models can't be repaired
Most GHDs — the Mk4, Mk5, Gold, Max, Platinum+ and so on — are built in a way that lets a repairer open them up, test the components, and replace whatever's failed. That's the whole basis of the repair trade.
The Eclipse and the round-button Platinum are different by design. GHD built these models with the internal electronics sealed and effectively disposable — the components aren't accessible or replaceable the way they are on the older models. When something fails inside one of these, there's simply no way in to fix it. It's not a case of a repairer lacking the skill or the parts; the design deliberately doesn't allow an internal repair at all.
I know that's frustrating to hear, especially as these were premium straighteners. But you deserve the truth rather than paying someone who promises a fix that isn't possible.
How to tell if you've got one
The quickest way to identify these models is the on/off control:
A round push-button → this is an Eclipse or a Platinum (S8T261) — the unrepairable design.
A sliding on/off switch → this is one of the repairable models (Mk4, Mk5, Gold, Max, Platinum+, etc.), and the news is much better.
You can also check the model code on the label inside the arm. S8T261 is the round-button Platinum. Do watch out for one easy mix-up: the Platinum+ (S8T262) is a different, repairable model despite the similar name — one digit apart, but a world of difference in whether it can be fixed. If you're unsure, my full guide on how to find your GHD model number walks you through it.
The one thing that can still be done: the cable
Here's the exception, and it's worth knowing. While the sealed internals can't be repaired, the mains cable is external to that sealed section — so if your Eclipse or Platinum's fault is the cable (for example, it cuts out or only works when the wire's held at an angle), a replacement cable can still be fitted.
So the key question for these models is: is the fault the cable, or is it internal?
If your straighteners cut in and out, or only work when you hold the cable a certain way, that points to a cable fault — and that's fixable even on these models. I've explained that symptom in detail in my guide to GHD cable faults.
If they simply won't heat, won't turn on, or have an internal fault, then unfortunately there's no repair available for an Eclipse or round-button Platinum.
If you think it might be the cable, you can look at the cable replacement option here — it's the one repair that applies to these otherwise-unrepairable models.
What to do if yours can't be fixed
If you've got an Eclipse or Platinum with an internal fault, I won't pretend otherwise or take your money for a repair that can't happen. Honestly, your options are to replace the straighteners, or — if you'd like to avoid them going to landfill — to recycle them responsibly.
It's also worth saying: if you're now buying a replacement, it's worth choosing one of the repairable, sliding-switch models (a Mk5, Gold, Max or Platinum+) rather than another sealed one. That way, if a fault ever crops up in future, you'll have the option of a cheap repair instead of another write-off. A little thing to know that could save you £100-plus down the line.
Not sure which model you've got?
If you're not certain whether yours is a repairable model or one of the sealed ones, take a quick look at the switch, or check the model number: how to find your GHD model number shows where it is. And if it turns out yours is one of the repairable models, that's great news: most everyday faults on those are a simple, inexpensive fix.
The Repair Works is an independent UK repair service, run by me, Paul — 25 years of hands-on repair experience, working by post for customers across the whole country. Not affiliated with or endorsed by GHD.
