Before starting, make sure your Macbook is fully powered off and unplugged from any power source. Use the right tools—typically a screwdriver set included in the package—and work on a non-conductive surface to prevent static electricity damage.
This tutorial will guide you in detail how to remove the Apple A1713 / MacBook Pro 13" A1708 (EMC 2978)/(EMC 3164) battery.
Step 1
Disable Auto Boot
- Before proceeding, you must disable your Mac's "Auto Boot" feature. This function automatically starts up your Mac when the lid is opened and could accidentally activate during disassembly.
- Power on your Mac and launch Terminal. Copy and paste the following command (or type it exactly) into Terminal: "sudo nvram AutoBoot=%00"
- Press [return]. If prompted, enter your administrator password and press [return] again. Note: Your return key may also be labeled ⏎ or "enter."
- When your repair is complete and your Mac is successfully reassembled, re-enable Auto Boot with the following command: "sudo nvram AutoBoot=%03"
Step 2
Remove screws securing the lower case
Use a P5 pentalobe screwdriver to remove the six bottom case screws:
- Two 6.2mm screws
- Two 5.3mm screws
- Two 3.4mm screws
Note the original position of each screw to ensure proper reassembly and avoid damaging your device.
Step 3
Use a suction cup and spudger to separate the bottom case.
Step 4
Disconnect the battery connector.
Step 5
Gently peel off the small piece of tape covering the battery board's data cable connector.
Step 6
Use the tip of a spudger to flip up the small black locking tab securing the cable in its connector.
Step 7
Slide the battery board's data cable out of its socket to disconnect it.
Step 8
Fold back the battery board's data cable and move it aside.
Step 9
Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to remove the 3.7mm flat-head screw securing the battery power connector.
Step 10
Use a spudger to gently lift the battery power connector and disconnect the battery.
Step 11
Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to remove the two 2.1mm screws securing the trackpad cable connector bracket.
Step 12
Remove the trackpad cable connector bracket.
Step 13
Use a spudger to gently pry the trackpad flex cable connector off the logic board, disconnecting the trackpad flex cable.
Step 14
- With iOpener: "Prepare an iOpener and place it over the trackpad flex cable for ~1 minute to soften the adhesive securing the cable to the battery."
- Alternative (Hairdryer): "If no iOpener, use a hairdryer to gently warm the cable. It should feel warm—not hot. Avoid overheating the battery."
Step 15
Carefully peel the trackpad flex cable away from the battery, then gently push it aside.
Step 16
Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to remove the ten screws securing the trackpad assembly:
- Two 4.3mm screws
- Eight 5.8mm screws
Step 17
Remove the trackpad assembly.
Step 18
Ensure the six small washers on the trackpad’s underside are not lost (two circular and four rectangular).
Step 19
Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to remove the two 3.1mm screws securing the battery board.
- These screws are located beneath the battery board's data cable. You may need to gently wiggle the cable left and right to locate each screw.
- Both screw heads may have liquid contact indicator stickers. If present, use tweezers to peel them off and set aside before removing the screws.
Step 20
The battery board is permanently attached to the battery. Check to make sure it has adequate clearance to come out together with the battery, without snagging on other components.
- Insert the flat edge of a spudger under the battery board on the side nearest the logic board.
- Lift the battery board to an angle of about 45 degrees. If necessary, lift the battery power connector out of the way to give the battery board extra clearance.
Step 21
To protect your display, place a sheet of aluminum foil between the screen and keyboard before proceeding.
Step 22
Apply a few drops of adhesive remover under the front edge of the battery cell near the fan.
Step 23
- Slightly tilt the MacBook Pro's front edge upward.
- Wait 2-3 minutes before proceeding to allow the adhesive remover to take effect.
Step 24
Slide a plastic card beneath the battery edge where adhesive remover was applied.
Step 25
Repeat the previous steps to separate the outer battery cell on the opposite side.
Step 26
Remove the battery
- Before installing the new battery, remove all old adhesive residue from the MacBook Pro's casing.
- Install the new battery by reversing the removal steps.