How easy is it to replace a MacBook Pro's battery yourself?

Battery aging is a common problem for MacBook Pro users. The official cost of replacing a laptop battery is high, so many users consider replacing it themselves. However, the difficulty of replacing a MacBook Pro battery varies greatly from year to year. This article will detail the difficulty of disassembling each model to help you decide whether it is suitable for DIY.

2012-2020 Retina models: difficult operation

In 2012, Apple launched the MacBook Pro Retina, which uses a bonded battery design, making battery replacement quite complicated. The batteries of these models are fixed inside the body with strong glue, and great patience and skills are required to remove them.

Main difficulties:

The battery is fixed with a large area of industrial glue, which requires a special adhesive remover.

You must use a plastic pry bar to carefully separate it. Metal tools may cause the battery to short-circuit or even catch fire.

Battery cells are very fragile and excessive bending may cause damage or even cause safety hazards.

Operation suggestions:

Use a hair dryer (about 60℃) to heat the bottom of the battery to soften the glue and facilitate separation.

Use a slow "saw-like" technique to gradually pull out the adhesive strip parallel to the direction of the body.

Residual glue stains can be cleaned with isopropyl alcohol to ensure that the new battery can be firmly installed.

The whole process usually takes 2-3 hours, and novices are advised to watch a detailed disassembly tutorial (such as iFixit's video) and prepare all the necessary tools.

2021 and later M-series models: greatly simplified

In 2021, Apple made a major improvement to the battery design of the MacBook Pro, using a stretchable release tape to secure the battery and make the replacement process simpler.

Main improvements:

Stretch release tape: Similar to the design of the 3M Command hook, the battery can be easily removed by pulling the green pull tab.
Standardized screws: No longer using special Pentalobe screws, ordinary Phillips screwdrivers can complete most of the disassembly.
Modular design: The battery pack is easier to remove and reduces interference with other components.

Practical experience:

The battery replacement of the 2021 14-inch MacBook Pro can be completed in 45 minutes. The new battery does not need to be calibrated and will show 100% health after installation. However, there are still some points to note:

The trackpad cable is very fragile and should be removed with extra care.

The speaker module needs to be removed first to avoid accidental damage.

It is recommended to wear an anti-static wristband to prevent static electricity from damaging the motherboard.

Tool Preparation Guide

The tools required vary by model:

2012-2020 Retina models:

Adhesive remover (required)

P5 Pentalobe screwdriver (required)

Plastic spudger set (required)

Suction cup (for screen removal, required for some models)

2021 and later M series models:

Phillips screwdriver (required)

Plastic spudger (recommended)

Stretch release tool (optional, but can improve efficiency)

Advice for those who are hesitant

2016-2020 models: users with experience in electronic product repair are recommended to try, and novices should be cautious.

2021 models and later: ordinary users can complete it under guidance, and the difficulty is relatively low.

Early non-Retina models (2011 and before): Battery replacement is very simple, DIY is highly recommended.

Important reminder: Be sure to back up your data before disassembling! If the device is still under warranty or has purchased AppleCare+, official replacement may be a safer choice.

Have you tried to replace the MacBook battery yourself? Feel free to share your experience or ask questions in the comments section!

Still having battery issues? Upgrade to a reliable replacement at applebattery.com