I haven't experience any error 53 codes on the devices I've repaired, but if this is true... Wow! That's really shady of Apple. I'm starting to get the feeling that the moves they're making (like charging for Apple radio [not Apple music], and now disabling phones with unauthorized repairs) is their response to their recent report of declining iPhone sales. Disappointing if this is true that these changes are at the expense of their end users and fans (and I am a fan).