MacBook Pro M5: Apple makes battery replacement easier
Previously, the entire top case had to be replaced when giving a MacBook Pro a new battery. Apple is changing that – for one model.
"Rolling in" the fresh battery on a MacBook Pro M5: Apple rents out this and other tools.
(Image: Apple)
So far, replacing the battery in MacBook Pro devices has been expensive and not very sustainable when users wanted to use Apple's so-called Self-Service Repair Program (SSRP). The reason: For the professional notebooks, unlike the Air models, it was always necessary to purchase an entire "top case with battery and keyboard", which also included a new keyboard and the entire top case. Price per unit: a whopping almost 600 Euros – only reducible by 100 Euros if the defective part was returned. With the MacBook Pro M5, something is finally happening here: For the first time within the SSRP, interested parties can purchase and replace only the battery.
Cheaper, but more complex
This can be seen from Apple's official spare parts sales offer, the Self-Service Repair Store, where the products are already listed. Apple has also published a repair guide (also) in German with animations for more complex steps. The price shrinks considerably thanks to the omitted components: Around 240 Euros are charged for the battery alone, around 217 Euros when returning the old part.
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However, you also have to spend an additional 30 Euros each: for the so-called battery press plate and the plastic battery cap. Furthermore, for almost 55 Euros, a tool kit can be rented, which includes, among other things, the roller for activating the battery adhesive and the battery press.
Actually only for tinkerers
Apple's instructions for replacing the battery demonstrate that this is still not a job for beginners: A total of 14 steps for disassembly and 27 steps for reassembly with a new battery are necessary. The question is, for whom is this worthwhile. Because: According to Apple's cost estimate website, Apple itself charges only 289 Euros for a new battery for the MacBook Pro M5, without you having to lift a finger. Spare parts plus tool kit rental are therefore above that.
Only those who truly enjoy tinkering are likely to choose the SSRP. In addition: Currently, a battery change is not yet an issue for users, as every MacBook Pro M5 purchased is within the first year of warranty (or Apple's one-year guarantee). If the battery should weaken already, Apple will most likely act free of charge.
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