When and how to replace your MacBook Pro battery

You can replace a MacBook Pro battery yourself if your model was made before 2016, or if you have a 16-inch model from 2019 or later. Older unibody designs use a battery held down by a few screws; newer models glued the battery in place, making removal difficult without damaging the case. If your MacBook Pro is between 2016 and 2019, or if you own a 13-inch from 2016 to 2019, Apple's repair service is the practical choice — the battery is adhesive-bonded and requires specialized tools to remove safely.

Before you start, check your model year and screen size. You can find this by clicking the Apple menu, selecting "About This Mac", and looking at the year listed next to "MacBook Pro". The battery replacement process differs significantly between generations, so knowing your exact model prevents you from following the wrong steps.

Key Takeaways

  • MacBook Pro models from 2015 and earlier, and 16-inch models from 2019 onward, have user-replaceable batteries held by screws rather than glue.
  • You will need a P5 Pentalobe screwdriver (the five-pointed Apple-specific tool), a spudger or plastic pry tool, and a replacement battery compatible with your exact model year.
  • The entire process takes 30 to 45 minutes and involves removing the bottom case, disconnecting the battery connector, unscrewing the old battery, and installing the new one.
  • If your MacBook Pro is a 13-inch or 15-inch model from 2016 to 2019, the battery is glued in and requires professional removal to avoid cracking the case.
  • After installation, your MacBook Pro will run a battery health check automatically; if the new battery does not register, reseat the connector and try again.

Gather the right tools and parts before you start

You need three things: a P5 Pentalobe screwdriver (the distinctive five-pointed bit Apple uses), a plastic spudger or thin pry tool, and a replacement battery. Do not use a regular Phillips screwdriver — the Pentalobe bit is shaped differently and will strip the screw heads. You can buy a Pentalobe screwdriver for $10 to $20 from electronics retailers or online.

Order a replacement battery that matches your MacBook Pro's model and year exactly. Search for your model number (found in "About This Mac") plus "replacement battery" to find the correct part. Batteries from third-party sellers are cheaper than Apple's, but buy from a seller with consistent reviews. A typical replacement battery costs $40 to $80.

Work on a clean, flat surface with good lighting. Lay out a small container or cloth to hold the screws you remove — they are tiny and straightforward to lose. Power off your MacBook Pro completely and unplug all cables, including power and USB devices.

Remove the bottom case and disconnect the battery

Flip your MacBook Pro upside down so the bottom case faces you. Use your P5 Pentalobe screwdriver to remove all the screws holding the bottom case in place. There are usually 8 to 10 screws around the perimeter; remove them all and set them aside in order. Gently lift the bottom case away from the body — it may stick slightly, so use your spudger to ease it up if needed.

Once the case is off, you will see the battery inside. Before you touch anything, locate the battery connector — a small plug attached to the battery with a thin cable running to the logic board. This connector is usually near the center or left side of the battery. Use your spudger to gently pry the connector straight out of its socket. Do not pull on the cable itself; always pull on the connector block. This disconnects power and prevents any electrical risk while you work.

Unscrew and remove the old battery

The battery is held down by 2 to 4 screws, depending on your model. Use your Pentalobe screwdriver to remove each one, working slowly and keeping track of where each screw came from. Once all screws are out, gently lift the battery out of its bay. It may stick slightly to the case due to adhesive strips underneath — use your spudger to ease it up, working from one corner at a time.

If the battery is stuck, do not force it. explore gentle, steady pressure with your spudger and work your way around the edges. Forcing a stuck battery can crack the case or damage the internal components. Once it is free, set the old battery aside. Do not throw it away yet — keep it until you confirm the new battery works, in case you need to return it.

Install the new battery and reconnect the power

Place the new battery into the empty bay, aligning it so the screw holes match up. Insert and tighten the screws with your Pentalobe screwdriver, working in a crisscross pattern (like tightening a car wheel) to may support even pressure. Do not overtighten — snug is enough.

Now reconnect the battery connector by pushing it straight into its socket until you hear or feel a click. The connector should sit flush with no gap. If it does not click in, remove it and try again — a loose connection will prevent your MacBook Pro from recognizing the new battery.

Replace the bottom case and power on

Align the bottom case with the body of your MacBook Pro and press it down gently until it sits flush. Insert all the screws you removed earlier, working in a crisscross pattern again to avoid warping the case. Tighten them snugly but not hard — over-tightening can crack the aluminum.

Flip your MacBook Pro right-side up and press the power button. It should start normally. Once it boots, go to the Apple menu, select "About This Mac", and click "System Report". Navigate to "Power" in the left sidebar and check the battery condition. It should show "Normal" for a new battery. If it shows "Replace Now" or "Service Battery", the connector may not be fully seated — power off, remove the case again, and reseat the connector.

What to do if your MacBook Pro model is not user-replaceable

If your MacBook Pro is a 13-inch or 15-inch model from 2016, 2017, 2018, or early 2019, the battery is glued to the case and not designed for user replacement. Attempting to remove it risks cracking the aluminum bottom case or damaging the trackpad and keyboard above it. Apple's repair service is the right choice for these models.

Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store to arrange a battery replacement. Out-of-warranty battery replacement typically costs $129 to $199, depending on your model. The repair usually takes 3 to 5 business days. If your MacBook Pro is still under warranty or AppleCare+, the replacement may be covered at no cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my battery needs replacing?

Go to the Apple menu, select "About This Mac", click "System Report", and look at the "Power" section. If the "Condition" field shows "Replace Now" or "Service Battery", your battery is degraded and should be replaced. A battery showing "Normal" but draining quickly may still be aging — most MacBook Pro batteries last 3 to 5 years before capacity drops noticeably.

Can I use a third-party battery instead of an Apple battery?

Yes, third-party batteries work in user-replaceable models, but buy from a reputable seller with good reviews. Cheap or counterfeit batteries may not hold a full charge or could overheat. Check the part number on the replacement battery against your model number to may support compatibility.

What if the new battery does not show up in System Report after I install it?

The connector is probably not fully seated. Power off your MacBook Pro, remove the bottom case, and push the battery connector straight into its socket until you feel it click. Make sure the connector is flush with no gap. Reseat it and power on again.

Is it safe to use my MacBook Pro while the battery is being replaced?

No. Always power off completely and unplug all cables before you start. Working on a powered-on or sleeping MacBook Pro risks electrical shock or damage to the logic board. Wait at least 30 seconds after shutting down before you open the case.

What should I do with the old battery after I remove it?

Do not throw it in the trash. Lithium batteries must be recycled. Take it to an Apple Store, an electronics retailer with a recycling program, or a local hazardous waste facility. Many retailers accept old batteries for free recycling.