MacBooks are known for their sleek and sophisticated design. However, despite their outstanding qualities, Apple’s laptops, like any other electronic device, are prone to malfunctions and breakdowns. The keyboard is arguably one of the most important parts of a laptop. Users depend on the keyboard to enter data and browse the internet, among other functions. The keyboard is a critical component that is subject to wear and tear over time. The question is, how much does it cost to replace an Apple MacBook keyboard?
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
One of the most critical components is the keyboard. It is required for inputting data, making necessary calculations, and undertaking crucial tasks. The MacBook keyboard must therefore be functioning correctly. MacBook owners have the option of replacing their keyboards if they wear out or are damaged due to accident or negligence. In this regard, the following items are required:
– A replacement Mac keyboard
– Replacement screws
– Appropriate screwdrivers that fit the screws in the MacBook
– A spudger tool to pry the components without damage
– Replacement guide
– A reliable technician to undertake the job.
What requires your focus?
When replacing your MacBook keyboard, it is essential to focus on the following critical aspects:
– Getting a high-quality replacement keyboard that is compatible with your MacBook model.
– Ensuring that the replacement screws fit the keyboard correctly.
– Ensuring that the replacement process is done competently and correctly to avoid further damage to other components.
– Selecting a reputable technician to undertake the replacement job.
– Ensuring that the keyboard replacement process does not void your MacBook’s warranty.
3 Methods to Replace Your MacBook Keyboard
Method 1: Replacing the Keyboard at Apple Store
If your MacBook keyboard needs replacement, you can visit a local Apple Store, and the attending specialist will assist you. The Apple Store specialist will assess the damage to your MacBook keyboard and provide a quote for the repair costs. The cost will vary depending on the extent of the damage and your MacBook’s model. To replace a MacBook keyboard at an Apple store, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Contact Apple Store
Reach out to the nearest Apple Store to request an appointment with a specialist. You can do this via Apple’s website or using your phone.
Step 2: Provide Your MacBook Information
You will be required to provide your MacBook’s serial number and details such as the model type and size.
Step 3: Get a Replacement Quote
After assessing the damage to your MacBook keyboard, the specialist will provide you with a quote for the repair.
Step 4: Replace the Keyboard
If you agree to the cost, the specialist will replace your MacBook keyboard with a new one.
Pros:
– The replacement keyboard comes with a guarantee of its authenticity.
– The replacement process is undertaken by Apple-certified technicians, and this assures the MacBook owner of the quality of work.
– The replacement keyboard is compatible with your MacBook’s model
– This replacement service may be an option if your MacBook is still under warranty.
Cons:
– The replacement service comes with a high cost
– An appointment with a specialist must be scheduled ahead of time.
– The process can take several days.
Method 2: Replacing the Keyboard Yourself
Another option to replace your MacBook keyboard is doing it yourself. For a do-it-yourself approach, you will need the following tools:
Step 1: Identify the Screws
Using the appropriate screwdrivers, locate and remove all the screws holding your MacBook’s bottom plate.
Step 2: Access the Keyboard
After removing the screws, gently pry open the bottom to access the keyboard.
Step 3: Detach the Keyboard Ribbon
Identify the ribbon cable that connects the keyboard to the MacBook. Use a spudger tool to carefully detach the ribbon cable from the logic board.
Step 4: Remove the Keyboard
Next, remove the broken keyboard and replace it with a new one. Connect the ribbon cables to the new keyboard and ensure that they are correctly aligned with the logic board.
Step 5: Reassemble Your MacBook
Reattach the bottom plate by screwing it back in. Ensure that all screws are in place and tight.
Pros:
– Saves the cost of paying a technician.
– You get the satisfaction of fixing the problem yourself.
Cons:
– This process is quite complicated, and one needs to have an in-depth knowledge of MacBooks and their components.
– Opening your MacBook can void the warranty.
– It is easy to damage other components during the process.
Method 3: Technical Repair Shop
The third option is to take your MacBook to a third-party technical repair shop. Most of these shops specialize in MacBook repairs and provide flexible pricing options. To replace your MacBook keyboard at a technical repair shop, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Identify a Reputable Repair Shop
Find a reputable MacBook technical repair shop in your area. Check online reviews to ensure that other MacBook owners have had successful repairs.
Step 2: Assess the Damage
Take your MacBook to the shop and have a technician assess the damage and provide a quote for the repair costs.
Step 3: Replace the Keyboard
If you agree to the repair cost, the technician will replace your MacBook keyboard with a new one.
Pros:
– Technical repair shops offer flexible and affordable pricing options.
– The repair shop may provide a warranty for their work.
Cons:
– The quality of work may not be as good as a replacement done in an Apple store.
– The technicians may not be Apple-certified.
Why Can’t I Replace The Keyboard
There are several reasons why you may be unable to replace your MacBook keyboard, including:
1. Inadequate Tools
Replacing a MacBook keyboard requires the appropriate tools. If you do not have the tools, you may not be able to replace the broken keyboard.
2. Lack of Technical Know-How
Replacing a MacBook keyboard requires technical know-how. If you are not familiar with the MacBook’s internal components, you may not be able to replace the broken keyboard.
3. Cost
The cost of replacing a MacBook keyboard can be quite high. If the cost is too high, you may not be able to replace the broken keyboard.
Implications and Recommendations
The keyboard is one of the most critical parts of a MacBook. Replacing the keyboard is essential for the MacBook’s performance, and handling it incorrectly can lead to more significant damages. In light of this, MacBook owners must:
– Ensure that they get a high-quality replacement keyboard.
– Ensure that the replacement process is done competently and correctly to avoid further damage to other components.
– Select a reputable technician to undertake the replacement job.
– Ensure that the keyboard replacement process does not void your MacBook’s warranty.
5 FAQs:
Q1. How long does it take to replace a MacBook Keyboard?
A1. The replacement process can vary in time, depending on the extent of the damage and the MacBook model. It can take anywhere between 30 minutes to several hours.
Q2. Will replacing the keyboard void my MacBook’s warranty?
A2. Replacing the keyboard yourself may void the warranty. However, replacing the keyboard at an Apple store or at a reputable repair shop should not void the warranty.
Q3. Can I use any keyboard to replace the damaged one?
A3. No. You must use a keyboard that is compatible with your MacBook model. The replacement keyboard must also be of high quality and authentic.
Q4. Can I replace just a few keys on my MacBook keyboard?
A4. No. If a few keys are damaged, you cannot replace just those keys. You must replace the entire keyboard.
Q5. Should I replace my MacBook keyboard or buy a new computer?
A5. This depends on the extent of the damage to your MacBook and how old it is. In most cases, replacing the keyboard is a fraction of the cost of buying a new MacBook.