i've never repaired a laptop beside upgrading ram, but my current laptop, the first MacBook Pro unibody, needs a new optical drive and before that i've had to send a few laptops back to Apple during the warranty and/or extended care coverage.
i will be using the laptop as my primary computer for personal and work, so internet, legal research, writing docs and trial preparation. i have an imac and i am getting ready to sell it because it is rarely used. i really like the ability to be mobile (office, home office, conference room, kitchen table, etc..) and since it's would be my only computer the bigger screen would be easier on my eyes. i am planning to buy an iPad too, but the laptop is more pressing.