2021 M1 MacBook Pro 16″ A2485 – Tear-Down & Full Disassembly Guide

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OVERVIEW:

In this teardown, we dive deep into the 16-inch MacBook Pro M1 2021 model, providing you with a comprehensive step-by-step guide to disassemble the device. From removing the bottom case to extracting the logic board and battery, this tutorial will ensure you understand each phase of the disassembly process. Whether you’re performing maintenance, upgrading parts, or just curious, this detailed guide will help you tackle the teardown confidently.

See the official Apple specs for this model

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REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 3 to 4 HOURS to complete and is of ADVANCED difficulty, requiring careful handling of flex cables, screws, and internal components. Make sure you have a steady hand, as there are delicate parts, especially around the battery and logic board. Proper tools and patience are key.

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STEPS:

TOOLS YOU NEED

For this repair, you will need T4, T5, T6, and T2 screwdrivers, a Pentalobe P5 screwdriver, plastic pry tools, tweezers, a small hexagon socket wrench, and a pry bar. All of these tools can be found in a complete toolkit on our website or listed in the video description.

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Remove the P5 Screws and Pry Open the Bottom Case

• Start by removing all the P5 screws securing the bottom case of the MacBook Pro.
• Use a pry bar to gently slide between the bottom case and the chassis.
• Once you have enough leverage, pull the bottom case upward and slide it toward yourself.

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Disconnect Trackpad Flex Cable

• Use a T4 screwdriver to remove the bracket holding the trackpad flex cable to the logic board.
• Disconnect the flex cable using a plastic pry tool.
• After disconnecting, ensure that no cables are left connected to prevent accidental damage.

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Unlock and Disconnect the Battery Flex Cables

• Carefully use your plastic pry tool to unlock the small mechanism securing the battery flex cable.
• Slide the cable out of the connector gently to avoid damage, keeping it flat as you pull it.
• Repeat the process for the other side of the battery flex cable, unlocking it and sliding it out slowly.

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Disconnect the Logic Board Battery Connector

• Use a T4 screwdriver to remove the screw securing the logic board battery connector.
• Pull the connector away from the battery board using your plastic pry tool.
• This step is crucial for completely disconnecting the battery from the logic board.

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Remove the Battery Adhesive Tape

• The battery is secured with double-sided adhesive tape. Locate the pulling tabs on the tape.
• Gently pull on each tab, one by one, to remove the adhesive. Use your tweezers or plastic pry bar to assist in this process.
• Be patient, as the tape may break occasionally, making the process more difficult.

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Remove Trackpad

• If you intend to fully disassemble the laptop, remove the trackpad.
• Use your T4 screwdriver to remove all screws securing the trackpad.
• Once the screws are out, remove the trackpad carefully and disconnect the flex cable.

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Remove Remaining Tape on the Battery

• After removing the primary adhesive tabs, continue pulling the remaining tape from both sides of the battery.
• The goal is to free the battery from the chassis completely. Ensure no tape is left holding it in place.

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Remove the T4 Screws from the Battery Board

• Use a T4 screwdriver to remove the screws holding the battery board to the chassis.
• Once all screws are removed, the battery board can be freed from the system.

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Separate the Battery from the Chassis

• Gently use a wider pry bar to start separating the battery from the chassis.
• Apply minimal pressure to avoid damaging the battery or the internal components.
• Slowly work your way around the battery to ensure it’s fully detached.

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Disconnect and Remove the Logic Board

• Begin removing the screws holding the logic board to the chassis.
• Use a variety of screwdrivers, such as T5 and T6, to remove all the securing screws.
• Carefully wiggle the logic board free once all screws are removed, ensuring no cables are still connected.

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Remove the Wi-Fi Antenna and Other Connections

• Using your T4 screwdriver, remove the screws securing the Wi-Fi antenna to the logic board.
• Disconnect any additional cables that may be connected to the logic board, such as the speaker and mic cables.
• Handle these cables carefully to prevent damage.

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Disconnect the Touch ID Flex Cable

• Carefully remove the four screws holding the Touch ID to the chassis.
• Use your plastic pry tool to gently disconnect the Touch ID flex cable from the chassis.
• Be extra cautious, as damaging this cable will result in losing Touch ID functionality.

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Remove the Cooling Fans

• Use your T5 screwdriver to remove screws securing the cooling fans to the chassis.
• Before fully pulling the fan out, ensure to disconnect the fan flex cables from the logic board.
• Remove any adhesive that might be holding the fan cables in place.

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Remove the Remaining Boards (Audio, USB, Thunderbolt)

• Use your T5 screwdriver to remove the screws holding the audio board, USB, and Thunderbolt boards in place.
• Disconnect the necessary cables, ensuring you don’t damage the connectors or the board itself.
• Carefully remove each board once it’s free from screws and connected cables.

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Remove the LCD from the Chassis

• Use a T9 screwdriver to remove the screws securing the LCD to the top case.
• Disconnect the LCD flex cables by gently prying them loose.
• Carefully remove the LCD from the chassis once all screws and cables are disconnected.

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Remove the Touch ID Board

• Remove the remaining screws securing the Touch ID board to the chassis.
• Be cautious when handling the Touch ID flex cable to avoid damaging it, as it’s delicate and vital for functionality.
• Once the Touch ID board is free, ensure the cable is not caught or damaged during removal.

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Reassembly

• After completing the teardown, carefully begin the reassembly process.
• Ensure that each part is placed back in its correct position and that all cables are securely connected.
• Follow the steps in reverse order, starting with the battery, logic board, cooling fans, and finishing with the LCD and Touch ID.

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CONCLUSION:

Congratulations, you’ve successfully completed the teardown of your 16-inch MacBook Pro M1 2021 model! This detailed process covered everything from removing the bottom case to disconnecting the battery, logic board, and all necessary components. Be sure to handle all parts carefully, especially the delicate cables like the Touch ID and battery connectors. If you’re replacing components or performing maintenance, remember to reassemble the device following the reverse order of the teardown steps.

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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:

If you prefer professional assistance, we offer a reliable mail-in repair service. Send in your device, and we’ll handle the rest.

REPAIR SERVICES

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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. You’ll find everything you need in our recommended toolkit.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

If you have any questions about the repair process or need further clarification, feel free to ask in the comment section below. Our community will be more than happy to assist!

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

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YOUR EXPERIENCE MATTERS: