2021 M1 MacBook Pro A2442 Keyboard Replacement – Step-by-Step Repair Guide

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OVERVIEW:

In this detailed repair guide, we walk through the full replacement of a keyboard on a MacBook Pro model A2442. This repair is unique as it involves replacing a keyboard configured with both American and Swedish layouts. The process includes removing the logic board, cooling fans, and other internal components to access the keyboard. Each step is meticulously broken down to help you perform the replacement safely and effectively. Follow along with our guide to ensure a successful repair from start to finish.

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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 internal components and many precise reassembly steps.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a Pentalobe screwdriver for opening the back panel, a T5 screwdriver for removing the trackpad plate, battery connector, and other components, a T6 screwdriver for specific logic board screws, a T3 screwdriver for various internal screws and connectors, a PL1 screwdriver for keyboard screws, and a spudger for safely unplugging internal cables. A magnet may also be helpful for retrieving small screws.

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Remove the Bottom Panel

• Use a Pentalobe screwdriver to remove the screws securing the back panel.
• Carefully lift off the bottom case to access the internal components.
• Set the panel aside in a clean, safe place.

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Remove the Trackpad Plate

• Use a T5 screwdriver to remove the screws securing the trackpad plate.
• Unplug the trackpad cable carefully from its connector.
• Disconnect the daughter board battery cable.

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Disconnect and Remove Battery

• Use a T5 screwdriver to unscrew the battery connector.
• Gently bend the connector upward to isolate power from the board.

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Remove Logic Board Screws

• Unscrew the logic board using a T5 screwdriver.
• Note that the two screws on the left side and the top right screw are T6.
• Peel off the small stickers covering additional T5 screws and remove them.

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Detach the Wi-Fi Bracket

• Unscrew the T5 and T3 screws holding the Wi-Fi bracket.
• Remove the bracket to access the connectors underneath.

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Unclip Logic Board Connectors

• Starting from the right, use a T3 screwdriver to unscrew and unclip each retention bar.
• Work leftward across the board, carefully loosening all connector bars.
• Don’t forget the Touch ID connector on the top left — missing this may damage it.

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Disconnect All Cables from Logic Board

• Use a spudger to unclip all internal connections:
  • Keyboard and backlighting
  • Right speaker
  • Headphone jack
  • Type-C ports
  • LCD proximity sensor
  • LCD cables
  • Wi-Fi antennas
  • Left speaker and Type-C ports
  • CPU fans

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Remove the Logic Board

• Unscrew the two T3 screws at the bottom.
• Bend the rubber grommets slightly to free the board.
• Start lifting from the middle; focus on freeing the left side, which tends to stick.

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Remove the Cooling Fans

• Unscrew the top T5 screws followed by the T3 screws.
• Carefully lift and remove both fans from their positions.

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Remove the Keyboard Screws

• Use a PL1 screwdriver to remove all visible keyboard screws.
• These are small and easy to lose—use a magnet if needed.

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Remove the Keyboard Backlighting

• Slowly peel the glued-on black backlight cover.
• Focus on loosening the edges first to avoid tearing.
• Once edges are free, the middle will come off easily.

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Remove Remaining Keyboard Screws

• Continue with the PL1 screwdriver to remove screws hidden under the backlight.
• Carefully work your way around the entire keyboard perimeter.

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Peel Away the Keyboard

• Push the keyboard from the other side.
• Peel it away slowly—this will break the metal rivets holding it in place.
• There’s no easier method; they must break off to remove the keyboard.

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Retrieve Lost Screws

• Flip the unit over and shake out any screws stuck in the Wi-Fi vent.
• Keep these screws organized for reassembly.

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Clean Interior Surface

• Gently clean the interior surface, removing any debris or dust.
• Ensure a clean area before reassembly to prevent overheating.

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Install the New Keyboard

• Begin by aligning the top-right corner first.
• Make sure cables are not trapped beneath the keyboard.
• Press the keyboard into place and confirm full seating.

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Secure the Keyboard

• Use PL1 screws in a cross pattern to evenly secure the keyboard.
• Don’t forget hidden screws under components like the microphone array.

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Reapply Keyboard Backlighting

• Stick the backlight cover back in its original position.
• Avoid covering the microphone array cable.
• Ensure the keyboard backlight connector is in place.

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Reinstall the Cooling Fans

• Place each fan back into its bracket.
• Secure the corners with T5 screws, followed by T3 screws elsewhere.

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Clean and Reinstall Logic Board

• Clean the logic board if needed before reinstalling.
• Carefully place it back, starting with the left side.
• Avoid covering cables or rubber seals.

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Reconnect Logic Board Cables

• Confirm all cables are aligned before securing.
• Plug in:
  • Keyboard and backlight
  • CPU fans
  • Speakers
  • Mic array
  • AUX, Type-C, MagSafe
  • LCD sensor and display
  • Touch ID and Wi-Fi antennas

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Reinstall Cable Retention Bars

• Reattach and screw down all cable retention bars.
• Start with one side, then screw in the other side for a secure fit.
• Don’t forget the black Wi-Fi retention bar.

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Reinstall Logic Board Screws

• Begin with T3 screws in the center.
• Then use T5 screws moving outward.
• Top left and top right screws are T6.

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Reconnect the Battery and Daughter Cable

• Plug in the daughter board cable.
• Secure the main battery with screws and reconnect.

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Reconnect Trackpad Cable

• Plug in the trackpad cable.
• Install the retention bar to keep the cable secure.

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Reattach Bottom Case

• Align one side and snap retention clips into place.
• Use long screws for the top, short ones for the bottom.

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CONCLUSION:

The MacBook Pro A2442 keyboard replacement is a complex process that involves full disassembly of the device. By carefully following each step, you can safely remove and replace the keyboard without damaging delicate components. Make sure to stay organized with screws and connectors, and take your time. A clean and thorough reassembly is key to ensuring everything functions as it should. With patience, the result is a refreshed keyboard and fully working 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 keyboard 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. High-quality screwdrivers, spudgers, and magnets make the process smoother and safer.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below. Our community and team will be happy to help!

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

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