MacBook keyboard replacement guide

MacBook keyboard replacement guide. The exact process depends on your MacBook model, since Apple has changed designs over the years. I’ll break it down by type of MacBook and then give you a step-by-step general guide.

🔍 First: Identify Your MacBook Type

1. Older Unibody MacBook Pro (2009–2012, pre-Retina)
   • Keyboard can be replaced separately from the top case. Screwed in with ~50 screws.
   • Easier than newer models.
2. Retina MacBook Pro / MacBook Air (2012–2015)
   • Keyboard is riveted or glued into the top case.
   • Usually replaced as part of the entire top case (palmrest + keyboard + battery).
3. Butterfly Keyboard Models (2016–2019 MacBook, Air, Pro)
   • Keyboard is integrated into the top case. Official repair = replace top case.DIY is extremely difficult (drilling rivets).
   • Keyboard is integrated into the top case. Official repair = replace top case.
   • DIY is extremely difficult (drilling rivets).
4. Newer Scissor-Switch MacBook (2020+)
   • Same situation: keyboard integrated with the top case.

👉 If you tell me your exact MacBook model (year + type), I can give you the precise steps.

🛠 General Tools Needed

• Pentalobe screwdriver (P5 for bottom screws, P1 for battery connector in some models).
• Phillips #00 or Torx T5 (depends on model).
• Plastic spudger / opening tool.
• Tweezers.
• Replacement keyboard or full top case (depending on model).

🔧 General Replacement Steps (Keyboard Only – for older models)

1. Power Down & Unplug
   • Shut down completely.
   • Disconnect charger.
2. Remove Bottom Cover
   • Unscrew all pentalobe/Phillips screws.
   • Lift cover off.
3. Disconnect Battery
   • Use spudger to carefully disconnect battery cable.
4. Remove Logic Board & Components (if needed)
   • Depending on model, you may need to remove the logic board, fans, speakers, etc. to reach the keyboard.
5. Unscrew Keyboard
   • Older models have 40–50 tiny screws holding the keyboard.
   • Remove them carefully.
6. Install New Keyboard
   • Align replacement.
   • Re-screw all screws.
7. Reassemble MacBook
   • Reinstall components in reverse order.
   • Reconnect battery.
   • Reattach bottom cover.

⚠️ Warnings

• On most modern MacBooks (2012+), Apple designed the keyboard to not be user-replaceable. Usually you replace the entire top case assembly.
• The keyboard is often riveted/glued, making DIY very hard.
• If you’re not experienced, I recommend getting a top case assembly instead of just a bare keyboard—it saves hours of work.