MacBook Air M1 2020 Top Case Replacement – Step-by-Step How-To Guide

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OVERVIEW:

In this repair guide, we’ll walk you through the complete top case assembly replacement process for the 2020 M1 MacBook Air (Model A2337). This includes removing the logic board, Touch ID, trackpad, audio board, USB-C ports, and Wi-Fi antenna module, as well as properly disconnecting and reconnecting all related flex cables. This is an in-depth, step-by-step teardown that ensures your replacement is successful and safe. The guide is based entirely on the video transcript, staying true to every step shown in the tutorial.

See the official Apple specs for the 2020 MacBook Air M1

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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 careful handling of delicate components and precise reassembly.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a pentalobe screwdriver, T3, T5, and T8 Torx screwdrivers, a plastic spudger for safely disconnecting cables, and a charger to test the device after reassembly.

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Remove the Bottom Case

• Flip the MacBook over and use a pentalobe screwdriver to remove 10 screws: four at the top, four at the bottom, and two on the sides.
• Carefully lift off the bottom case to expose the internal components.
• Identify the battery connector and unhook the metal clasp to disconnect the battery safely.

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Remove LCD Retention Screws

• Use a T8 screwdriver to remove six screws — three from each hinge securing the LCD.
• This step is essential to free the display for removal later in the process.
• Keep these screws organized as you’ll need them for reassembly.

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Disconnect and Remove the Wi-Fi Antenna Module

• Switch to a T5 screwdriver and remove four silver screws securing the Wi-Fi antenna.
• Then, remove the two black T5 screws holding both the Wi-Fi antenna and LCD into the top case.
• Carefully unplug the Wi-Fi antenna cables using a plastic spudger.

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Disconnect LCD and Remove Retention Brackets

• Use a T3 screwdriver to remove two screws and the retention bracket for the LCD display connector.
• Remove an additional T3 screw and bracket for the Wi-Fi antenna cable.
• Gently unplug the LCD connector with a spudger.

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Remove the Audio Board Bracket

• Use a T3 to remove three screws and a bracket securing the audio board on the left.
• Remove another T3 screw nearby before moving to the connectors.

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Disconnect Touch ID, Audio Board, and Speaker

• Unplug the Touch ID connector, the audio board flex, and the speaker cable.
• With those unplugged, use a T5 to remove the two screws holding the audio board in place.

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Remove Logic Board Screws

• Use the same T5 screwdriver to remove multiple screws securing the logic board.
• Don’t forget the two screws on the left side of the board.
• Carefully lift the board and unplug associated flex cables: USB-C ports, keyboard backlight, trackpad cable, and right speaker.

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Remove Retention Brackets and Flex Cables

• Switch to a T3 to remove a bracket and screws for the trackpad Flex cable.
• Unplug the cable using the spudger, then fully remove the logic board and set it aside.
• Also, remove the audio board and Touch ID sensor.

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Extract Wi-Fi Vent Module

• The Wi-Fi vent module is glued in and requires extra care.
• Start at one corner and gently pry upward to break the adhesive bond.
• Once loosened, pull it away from the top case completely.

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Remove Trackpad Assembly

• Use a T5 to remove two screws in each corner and one in the center.
• Gently unplug and peel the flex cable from the battery area.
• Open the laptop and push the trackpad through to remove it.

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Replace Touch ID

• Open the top case and pull the Touch ID module through its slot.
• Set it aside safely for installation into the new top case.

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Position the USB-C Ports

• Use a T5 to remove the two screws holding the USB-C ports in place.
• Carefully pull the ports out from their slots in the top case.

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Install the New Top Case

• Place the new top case in position and align the hinges.
• Secure the LCD with the original six T8 screws — three on each side.
• This ensures the display is anchored and protected from impact.

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Reinstall USB-C Ports and Touch ID

• Install the USB-C ports using two T5 screws.
• Open the unit and feed the Touch ID through the slot, letting it hang temporarily.

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Install New Trackpad

• Set the new trackpad in place and feed its flex cable through the cutout.
• Plug in the flex cable to the daughterboard.
• Secure the trackpad using T5 screws in a cross pattern — don’t overtighten.

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Secure Touch ID Module

• Position the retention bracket over the Touch ID.
• Use six T3 screws to secure it in place, using a cross pattern for even pressure.

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Install Audio Board

• Place the audio board on the left side and align it properly.
• Ensure the speaker cable and Touch ID cable aren’t trapped underneath.
• Use one T3 and two T5 screws to secure it and reconnect the speaker cable.

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Reinstall Logic Board

• Inspect the logic board for any signs of corrosion before placing it in.
• Position it properly and insert T5 screws — start all screws before tightening.
• Reconnect the board-to-audio flex, USB-C ports, speaker, keyboard backlight, and trackpad cable.

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Install Wi-Fi Vent Module and Reconnect Cables

• Align the module so the LCD flex runs outside while the rest stay inside.
• Secure with four long T5 screws and two short black T5s in the center.
• Plug in the LCD connector and Wi-Fi antenna cables.

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Secure Remaining Brackets

• Use T3 screws to secure all remaining retention brackets: trackpad, USB-C, Touch ID, audio board, speaker cable, and LCD display connector.

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Reconnect the Battery and Test

• Reconnect the battery and close the metal clasp.
• Plug in a charger and verify the MacBook powers on.
• Test the trackpad and keyboard functionality before sealing the device.

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Reinstall Bottom Case

• Reattach the bottom cover using the original 10 pentalobe screws.
• Longest screws go in the center-top, with shorter ones in the corners and sides.
• Confirm all screws are seated properly and the case is flush.

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CONCLUSION:

Replacing the top case on a 2020 M1 MacBook Air is a detailed and complex process, involving the removal and reconnection of several internal components. With patience and the right tools, this repair can bring a liquid-damaged MacBook back to life. Always test the machine before final reassembly to catch any missed connections. This guide strictly follows the step-by-step process shown in the original video tutorial. Double-check your work before powering on the device.

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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. A quality set of screwdrivers and prying tools makes a major difference.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Contact us:

• Phone: 818-456-4479
• Email: [email protected]

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