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Battery Replace Soon? Learn How to Replace the Battery in a 2015 MacBook Pro


OVERVIEW:

In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through a complete step-by-step guide to replacing the battery on a 15-inch MacBook Pro Retina A1398 (2015 model). Whether your battery is no longer holding a charge or swelling inside the chassis, this tutorial covers the entire removal and replacement process. Make sure to follow each step carefully, as MacBook internals are delicate and require precision handling. We’ll also go over tips to avoid damage and help you reinstall everything safely.

See the official Apple specs for this model


REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 1.5 to 2 Hours to complete and is of MODERATE difficulty, requiring basic technical skills and patience when removing adhesive-bound components.


STEPS:

Tools You Need

To complete this battery replacement, you’ll need the following tools: a Pentalobe P5 screwdriver, Torx T4 screwdriver, plastic spudger tool, and a clean workspace to keep track of different screw sizes.


Remove Protective Case

  • If your MacBook has a protective case or skin, remove it completely.
  • This ensures nothing obstructs screw access or pressure points.
  • Set the case aside safely for reinstallation later.

Unscrew the Back Cover

  • Use a P5 Pentalobe screwdriver to remove all 10 screws.
  • Keep track of screw positions—some are short, others are long.
  • Place the screws in a labeled container to avoid mixing.

Detach the Back Cover

  • Gently lift the back case using your fingers.
  • Work around the edges until the panel comes loose.
  • Set it aside on a soft cloth.

Disconnect the Battery Power

  • Open the lid of the MacBook.
  • Hold the power button for about 10 seconds to drain residual power.
  • This reduces the risk of short circuits.

Remove Trackpad Cable Bracket

  • Use a T4 Torx screwdriver to unscrew the two screws holding the trackpad bracket.
  • Gently lift the bracket off.
  • Be careful not to lose the tiny screws.

Disconnect the Trackpad Cable

  • Use a plastic spudger to lift the flex cable from the logic board.
  • Only lift the logic board side—not the trackpad side.
  • This cable is fragile, so handle with care.

Remove Battery Board Screws

  • Remove the plastic cover over the battery board.
  • Use the T4 screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the board.
  • Set the screws and cover aside.

Loosen Battery Adhesive

  • Start from the back cells using the flat side of a spudger.
  • Gently pry each battery cell off the chassis.
  • Work slowly to avoid puncturing the battery.

Remove All Battery Cells

  • Continue separating each cell one by one.
  • Use steady, even pressure to release the double-sided tape.
  • Be mindful of the trackpad cable running below the center cells.

Remove Battery Assembly

  • After all adhesive is released, lift the entire battery unit.
  • Avoid bending or puncturing any cells.
  • Recycle the old battery responsibly.

Install New Battery

  • Align the replacement battery (model A1618) into the chassis.
  • Firmly press down each section to ensure proper adhesion.
  • Remove any plastic coverings or tabs on the new battery.

Reconnect Battery Board

  • Align the battery board with its screw holes.
  • Use your T4 screwdriver to reinstall both screws.
  • Make sure it sits flush with the chassis.

Reconnect the Trackpad Cable

  • Carefully press the trackpad cable connector back into the logic board.
  • Ensure it’s securely inserted and flush.
  • Misalignment may cause the trackpad to malfunction.

Reattach Trackpad Cable Bracket

  • Place the bracket back over the cable.
  • Insert and gently tighten the two screws.
  • Avoid over-tightening to prevent board damage.

Reinstall Battery Cover

  • Place the small plastic battery cover back in its original position.
  • Press it into place gently until it’s secure.

Reconnect Battery to Logic Board

  • Line up the battery power connector with the socket.
  • Press down until you hear a click.
  • This confirms a secure connection.

Replace the Back Cover

  • Align the MacBook’s bottom panel over the frame.
  • Reinsert and tighten all 10 screws in their original locations.
  • Double-check for any misaligned corners.

CONCLUSION:

Replacing the battery in your MacBook Pro A1398 is completely doable with the right tools and a careful hand. Always work slowly, especially when removing glued components like the battery. Make sure everything is connected properly before sealing the laptop back up. If anything feels misaligned or off, take a step back and recheck your work.

Before and After Battery Replacement

VIDEO TUTORIAL:

Looking for a more in-depth tutorial? Check out our complete teardown video for a detailed step-by-step walkthrough.


MAIL-IN REPAIR SERVICE:

We offer professional screen replacement services. If you’re unsure about doing this repair yourself, send your device to our expert technicians for fast and reliable repair.


SHOP PARTS:


SHOP TOOLS:

Using precision tools ensures a safe and efficient repair. Always use the right tools to prevent damage to delicate components.


HAVE QUESTIONS?

Need help? Contact our support team anytime: 

  • Phone: 818-456-4479
  • Email: support@tekdep.com

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