Upgrading the 16″ MacBook Pro A2141 2019 With a New Logic Board

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OVERVIEW:

In this detailed repair tutorial, we walk through the complete process of replacing the logic board on a 16-inch MacBook Pro (Model A2141, Space Gray). This repair was performed on a unit that had already undergone diagnostics and was determined to be unrepairable due to the board not receiving power. We demonstrate how to fully disassemble the MacBook, carefully remove the old board, and install a replacement board—ensuring all components are correctly reconnected. This guide is ideal for technicians or advanced DIY users ready to tackle a complex internal repair.

See official Apple specs for this model

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REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 2 TO 3 HOURS to complete and is of ADVANCED difficulty, requiring expert handling of multiple internal cables, screws, and component alignment for a successful logic board transfer.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a T3, T5, and T8 Torx screwdriver, a PL1 and PL5 screwdriver for specialty screws, a plastic pry tool for safe disconnections, and optionally a pair of tweezers for cable routing. Having precision tools is critical due to the density and delicacy of internal MacBook components.

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Remove Remaining Logic Board Screws

• Begin by using a T3 screwdriver to remove the remaining top two screws holding the logic board in place.
• Remove any remaining T3 screws from the hinge covers to improve accessibility.
• Optionally remove the Wi-Fi antenna vent module for easier board handling.

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Disconnect the Wi-Fi Vent and LCD Screws

• Use a T5 screwdriver to remove four black screws securing the Wi-Fi vent and LCD.
• With a T8 driver, remove the two heat sink screws at the top of the board—note the left screw is larger and has threading in the center.
• Use a PL1 screwdriver to remove the Wi-Fi vent screws completely.

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Remove LCD Bungee Screws

• With the T3 screwdriver, remove four T3 screws (two at each end) securing the LCD bungee assembly.
• This isn’t strictly required but improves access and makes installation smoother.

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Disconnect All Board Cables

• Begin with the LCD connector: remove the tape and disconnect the cable.
• Disconnect the Wi-Fi vent cable and remove the module.
• Proceed counterclockwise: headphone jack, Touch ID under left I/O ports, left microphone array, left cooling fan, speaker, keyboard cable, and trackpad cable.
• Continue to the right side: CPU cooling fan, speaker, backlight cable, I/O board cable, touch bar cable, and proximity sensor.

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Remove the Logic Board

• Carefully pry under the left side of the board and lift upwards while ensuring cables are free.
• Detach any remaining gaskets or adhesive holding the board in place.
• Remove the board fully once all connections are clear.

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Transfer LCD Connector to New Board

• Use a T3 screwdriver to unscrew the two screws holding the LCD display connector.
• Remove it and set it aside for transfer to the new board.

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Remove and Transfer Touch ID Sensor

• Unscrew the left cooling fan using two T3 and two T5 screws.
• Set the fan aside and remove six T3 screws securing the Touch ID assembly.
• Peel back the tape and disconnect the Touch ID cable (it’s glued—gently pry apart).
• Remove the old Touch ID button from the case.

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Install New Touch ID Sensor

• Run the new Touch ID cable through the chassis and align it correctly.
• Secure it with adhesive and reconnect the cable using the spring-loaded mechanism.
• Use the T3 screwdriver to re-secure the screws.

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Reinstall the Left CPU Cooling Fan

• Place the fan back in position and secure it using the same T3 and T5 screws removed earlier.

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Slot in the New Logic Board

• Insert the board at an angle starting from the left, making sure no cables are trapped.
• Use tweezers to position cables like the Touch ID, speakers, mic arrays, and fans.
• Carefully check that every cable is on top and not underneath the board.

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Reconnect All Internal Cables

• One by one, reconnect: Touch ID, headphone jack, I/O board cable, mic array, left fan, left speaker, keyboard, trackpad, right speaker, right fan, keyboard backlight, proximity sensor, and finally the touch bar cable.
• Reattach the Wi-Fi antennas from top down.

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Final Cable and Board Checks

• Verify all cables are connected and secured.
• Reroute any that were previously twisted or misaligned.
• Begin screwing the board down with T5 screws, followed by T3 screws outward from the board.

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Reinstall Wi-Fi Vent and Finish Assembly

• Re-secure the Wi-Fi vent with PL1 screws.
• Plug in the battery daughterboard cable and confirm it’s fully seated.
• Reattach the bottom case and secure it with PL5 screws.

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Power On and Test

• Plug in the charger to test the repair.
• Wait for the MacBook to recognize the power source and turn on.

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CONCLUSION:

Replacing the logic board in the MacBook Pro A2141 is a precise and demanding repair. Ensuring each cable and connector is correctly routed is essential for functionality. By following this guide step-by-step, you can complete the repair with confidence. This repair not only restores power but also revives full Touch ID functionality when paired with its original board.

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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 logic board 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. Investing in quality screwdrivers and prying tools can significantly improve your repair success rate.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Contact us:

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

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