Reviving a Dead MacBook Pro 13″ 2017 – A1708 Logic Board Replacement Guide

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OVERVIEW:

In this repair tutorial, we’re tackling a logic board replacement on a 13-inch 2017 MacBook Pro (model A1708) in space gray. This MacBook was mailed in for service due to a power failure, and in this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of replacing the faulty logic board. From removing the bottom case to reconnecting the new board and testing for power, we’ll cover every move in detail. Whether you’re new to repairs or a seasoned technician, this step-by-step guide will help you complete the job successfully. Take your time, follow each section closely, and make sure you have the right tools on hand.

See the official Apple specs for the 2017 MacBook Pro 13″

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REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 1.5 TO 2 HOURS to complete and is of INTERMEDIATE difficulty, requiring careful handling of delicate components and familiarity with internal MacBook Pro hardware.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a suction cup for bottom case removal, a T5 and T3 Torx screwdriver, a pentalobe screwdriver, a Phillips screwdriver (for SSD and speaker screws), a plastic spudger for disconnecting cables, and tweezers or your fingers for lifting tape and aligning connectors.

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Remove the Bottom Case

• Use a pentalobe screwdriver to remove the screws securing the bottom case.
• Use a suction cup at the bottom edge to lift the case; once the sides are free, push the top case away and pull the bottom case toward yourself to disengage the front feet.
• Set the case aside carefully to avoid damage.

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Disconnect the Battery

• Use a plastic spudger to disconnect the battery management unit flex cable.
• Unscrew the pancake screw with a T5 screwdriver to fully disconnect the battery from the mainboard.
• This step ensures the MacBook is safe to work on.

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Remove Covers and Components Around the Logic Board

• Using a T5, remove the metal covers for the trackpad and headphone jack flex cables.
• Remove the screw holding down the Wi-Fi antenna, and the two screws securing the SSD.
• Unscrew and begin preparing the right speaker and subwoofer for removal, which is required to free the SSD.

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Detach Logic Board Screws and Covers

• With a T5, unscrew all logic board screws except for the LCD-related ones.
• Use a T3 screwdriver to remove the top-left hinge cover.
• Use the T5 again to remove the screw securing the heat sink.

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Disconnect All Cable Connections

• Use a spudger to unplug the following: Wi-Fi antennas, headphone jack, keyboard cables, trackpad flex cable, and right-hand speaker.
• Completely remove the right speaker during this process.

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Remove LCD Connector Bracket and Disconnect Display Cable

• Use a T3 screwdriver to remove the screws holding the LCD display connector bracket.
• Unplug the LCD connector using a spudger.

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Lift and Remove the Logic Board

• Carefully peel back any tape and unplug the SSD, or optionally leave it connected.
• Start lifting the board from the left-hand side, ensuring no cables are snagged.
• Carefully maneuver the board to free the two right USB-C ports from the case before fully removing it.

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Disconnect Final Display Connector

• Unscrew two T3 screws securing the display connector near the bottom of the board.
• Unplug the connector and set the old board aside.

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Prepare the New Logic Board

• Plug in and secure the display connector with two T3 screws before placing the new board.
• Slide the new board down and to the right to align the USB-C ports properly.

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Check Cable Positions Before Screwing

• Confirm that all cables are on the top side of the logic board:
  • Wi-Fi antenna
  • Display connector
  • Headphone jack
  • Speaker and keyboard cables
  • Trackpad
  • Battery dother board

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Reconnect Internal Cables

• Plug in the keyboard cable first, which may require angling for alignment, then close the tension bracket.
• Plug in the speaker cable above it and press down the tape.
• Reconnect the headphone/microphone jack, trackpad cable, Wi-Fi antenna cables, and the SSD.

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Secure Internal Screws and Brackets

• Use a T5 to secure the heat sink.
• Use a T3 to reinstall the hinge cover and LCD connector bracket.
• With a T5, reattach all remaining logic board screws and SSD screws.

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Reinstall Right Speaker and Covers

• Reinstall the right speaker, close the retention bracket, and press the tape back down.
• Secure all remaining brackets and verify that no cables are trapped.

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Final Battery Connection

• Reinstall the battery pancake screw with a T5.
• Plug in the battery flex cable, close its retention bar, and reapply the tape.
• Reattach the battery protection cover.

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Reinstall Bottom Case

• Place the bottom case, pushing forward to engage the front feet hooks, then snap it down into place.
• Use your pentalobe screwdriver to reinstall the screws:
  • Long screws go at the top,
  • Medium at the corners,
  • Smallest ones in the center.

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Power On and Test

• Plug in a charger and verify the MacBook begins charging.
• Press the power button and confirm the new logic board powers on successfully.

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CONCLUSION:

This logic board replacement for the 13-inch MacBook Pro A1708 is a moderately complex procedure involving multiple screw types and careful cable management. With patience and attention to detail, the repair can restore power and functionality to a previously unresponsive device. Always make sure to keep screws and components organized throughout the process. Rechecking connections before final assembly helps prevent errors. Once complete, your MacBook should power on as expected, and you’re back in business.

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VIDEO TUTORIAL:

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

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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

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SHOP PARTS:

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SHOP TOOLS:

Using precision tools ensures a safe and efficient repair. Always use the right tools to prevent damage to delicate components. Having the correct screwdriver sizes and spudgers will make your job smoother.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Contact us:

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