---

OVERVIEW:

In this comprehensive repair guide, we walk you through the process of replacing the top case assembly—which includes the keyboard, trackpad, and battery—on a 2015 15-inch MacBook Pro Retina (model A1398). This procedure is also applicable to the 2012, 2013, and 2014 models with only slight variations in layout and cable connections. The tutorial covers every step in detail, from disassembly to reassembly, ensuring that your MacBook is restored with precision. Whether you’re dealing with water damage or failing hardware, this repair can breathe new life into your device.

See official Apple specs for this model

---

REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 2-3 HOURS to complete and is of ADVANCED difficulty, requiring careful handling of delicate parts and a strong familiarity with internal MacBook components.

---

STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a Pentalobe screwdriver for the bottom case, a T5 and T8 Torx screwdriver for internal components, an ESD-safe brush for cleaning, a spudger for disconnecting cables safely, and possibly isopropyl alcohol for cleaning thermal pads. You’ll also need a replacement top case assembly compatible with the A1398 model.

---

Remove the Bottom Case

• Flip the MacBook over and use a Pentalobe screwdriver to remove all bottom screws.
• Carefully lift off the bottom case to expose the internal components.
• Use an ESD-safe brush to clean out dust and debris.

---

Disconnect the Battery

• Locate the battery connector and unplug it from the logic board.
• Ensure no power is flowing through the system before continuing.
• This step prevents short-circuiting during disassembly.

---

Remove the SSD

• Use a T5 screwdriver to remove the SSD retaining screw.
• Carefully slide the SSD out of its slot.
• Set it aside in a safe, static-free environment.

---

Remove the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Card

• Disconnect the antenna cables from the card.
• Unscrew and lift the card from its thermal pad gently.
• A spudger may help pry it loose if stuck.

---

Disconnect All Flex and Coax Cables

• Unplug the IO board flex cable and coax cable.
• Disconnect both the left and right speakers.
• Unplug keyboard, microphone, LCD, and both CPU fans.
• Lift the grommet to access and unplug the webcam cable.

---

Remove the CPU Cooling Fans

• Using the T5 screwdriver, remove the screws holding both fans.
• Gently lift each fan out of its socket.
• Set them aside carefully for reuse.

---

Remove the Logic Board

• Unscrew the logic board using the T5 screwdriver.
• Remember to remove the screws holding the MagSafe 2 port.
• Don’t forget the silver screw on the left side and the hidden one under the rubber cover.
• Lift out the logic board, MagSafe port, and IO board as a single unit.

---

Remove LCD Corner Brackets and Covers

• Remove the corner brackets using a T5 screwdriver.
• Set aside the brackets and rubber covers.
• These will be transferred to the new top case.

---

Remove the IO Board

• Unplug the remaining cable connected to the IO board.
• Remove two T5 screws securing the board.
• Carefully extract the board from its housing.

---

Remove the Speakers

• Use a T5 screwdriver to remove three screws on each speaker.
• Pull out both left and right speakers.
• Set them aside for reinstallation.

---

Remove the LCD Assembly

• Switch to a T8 screwdriver and remove six hinge screws.
• Open the MacBook slightly to free the LCD from the top case.
• Carefully set the LCD aside.

---

Install the New Top Case

• Align the new top case with the LCD.
• Drop the hinges into the correct slots.
• Secure them with T8 screws and close the unit.

---

Reinstall the Speakers

• Insert the left and right speakers into their positions.
• Match the screw lengths as follows: short at top, mid at center, long at bottom.
• Tighten all screws to secure the speakers.

---

Reinstall the Logic Board

• Gently lay the logic board into place.
• Ensure no cables are trapped underneath.
• Screw it down using the original T5 screws.

---

Reinstall the IO Board

• Connect the coax cable first.
• Drop the board into position.
• Secure with two T5 screws.

---

Reinstall Cooling Fans

• Connect fan cables before setting them in place.
• Secure each fan using the appropriate screws: pancake, stepped, and standard.
• Ensure firm attachment for optimal cooling.

---

Reconnect Internal Cables

• Connect the microphone array before installing the right fan.
• Plug in the webcam and keyboard backlight cables.
• Secure the MagSafe port with its original screws.

---

Install the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Card

• Connect antenna cables before seating the card.
• Secure with a T5 screw.
• Re-check all antenna connections.

---

Reconnect Remaining Cables

• Plug in both speaker cables.
• Connect the keyboard, trackpad, and IO board flex cable.
• Use a spudger to ensure each connector is fully seated.

---

Reinstall the SSD

• Slide the SSD into place.
• Secure with its retaining screw.
• Replace rubber grommets as needed.

---

Final Checks and Battery Connection

• Plug in the battery.
• Connect charger to test power and charging (orange for charging).
• Confirm trackpad and keyboard functionality.

---

Reattach the Bottom Case

• Align the case and press it into position.
• Use a Pentalobe screwdriver to reinstall all screws.
• Short screws go in top center; others can be placed randomly.

---

CONCLUSION:

Replacing the top case on a MacBook Pro Retina is a complex but rewarding task. By carefully following each step, you can restore full keyboard, trackpad, and battery functionality. Take your time with delicate connectors and be methodical about screw placements. The process involves many steps, but with patience and precision, even advanced repairs like this are achievable. Make sure to test all components before final closure to ensure everything is working perfectly.

---

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.

https://tekdep.com/device-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. Proper tools also make disassembly and reassembly smoother and more secure.

---

HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Contact us:

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

---

YOUR EXPERIENCE MATTERS: