Fix It Yourself – A1708 Logic Board Replacement Walkthrough for 13″ MacBook Pro

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OVERVIEW:

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a complete logic board replacement for a 2017 13-inch MacBook Pro, model A1708. This repair was done on a unit mailed in to us with a faulty logic board, and we’ll show every detailed step from disassembly to reinstallation. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a DIY repair pro, you’ll find this teardown tutorial helpful for replacing the logic board safely. This process involves careful handling of flex cables, connectors, and screws, so follow along step-by-step for the best results. By the end of this guide, your MacBook should be powered on with a brand-new working logic board.

See the official Apple specs for the 13″ MacBook Pro A1708

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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 flex cables and multiple screw types.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a T5 and T3 screwdriver, a plastic spudger or similar prying tool for safe disassembly, and adhesive tape for securing components. You may also want tweezers for handling small parts like rubber grommets and flex cables. No heating tools are necessary for this repair.

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Remove the Bottom Case

• Flip the MacBook over to expose the bottom case screws.
• Use a screwdriver to remove all screws and gently lift off the bottom panel.
• Set the panel aside in a safe location to avoid scratching or damaging it.

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Disconnect the Battery

• Peel off the tape cover protecting the battery daughterboard cable.
• Unplug the battery daughterboard flex cable to prevent power from flowing.
• Use a T5 screwdriver to remove the pancake screw securing the battery connector.

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Remove the Right Speaker

• Unplug the right-hand speaker from the logic board.
• Unscrew and remove the speaker from the top case.
• Keep it aside for reinstallation later in the process.

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Remove the SSD

• Peel up the tape that holds the SSD down.
• Using a T5 screwdriver, unscrew the SSD from the logic board.
• Slide the SSD out carefully and set it aside.

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Disconnect the Wi-Fi Antennas

• Unplug the Wi-Fi antenna cables from the logic board.
• Remove the small T5 screw securing the Wi-Fi bracket or antenna section.
• Be gentle to avoid damaging the tiny connectors.

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Remove the LCD Hinge Cover

• Switch to a T3 screwdriver and unscrew the hinge cover on the left side.
• Set the hinge cover aside for reinstallation.
• This will expose more connections for the LCD display.

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Unscrew Final Heat Sink Screw

• Using a T5 screwdriver, remove the last heat sink screw.
• This screw is essential for loosening the logic board for removal.
• Keep all screws well-organized during this process.

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Disconnect the LCD Display

• Use a T3 screwdriver to unscrew the LCD display connector assembly.
• Carefully unplug the LCD display connector from the logic board.
• Avoid pulling at an angle to prevent flex cable damage.

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Disconnect Remaining Cables

• Unplug the headphone jack and the left speaker cable.
• Gently lift the trackpad flex cable to access the keyboard cable underneath.
• Disconnect the keyboard cable to fully free the logic board.

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Remove the Logic Board

• Carefully lift out the old logic board.
• Set it on a static-free surface.
• Double-check that all connections and screws are removed before lifting.

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Remove LCD Display Connector

• Peel back the tape covering the LCD connector on the old board.
• Use a T3 screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the connector.
• Set this part aside for transfer to the new board.

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Prepare the New Board

• Take your replacement logic board and position it properly.
• Install the LCD display connector to the new board using the two T3 screws.
• Make sure it’s secure and tape it down if needed.

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Slot Logic Board Into MacBook

• Gently place the new board into the MacBook chassis.
• Align it with the screw holes and cable connections.
• Ensure it’s flush and evenly seated.

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Reconnect Flex Cables

• Start by connecting the headphone jack.
• Move on to the LCD display connector, then the Wi-Fi antennas.
• Connect the bottom flex cables: left speaker, keyboard, and trackpad.

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Secure the Logic Board

• Use T5 screws to fasten the logic board into place.
• Secure all connectors to ensure they won’t move or disconnect.
• Double-check that everything is tight but not over-torqued.

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Reinstall LCD Hinge Cover

• Use the T3 screwdriver to secure the hinge cover.
• Also, secure the LCD display connector bracket.
• Make sure there’s no tension on the cables.

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Reinstall SSD

• Slide the SSD back into its slot.
• Fasten it with two T5 screws and apply the tape for stabilization.
• Ensure it’s fully seated and not loose.

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Reinstall Right Speaker

• Connect the right-hand speaker cable first.
• Screw the speaker back into the top case.
• Reattach the small rubber grommet to its position.

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Reconnect the Battery

• Align the battery connector and fasten it using the T5 pancake screw.
• Plug the daughterboard data cable back in.
• Close the retention bar and tape everything back down.

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Reattach the Bottom Case

• Place the bottom case back onto the MacBook.
• Press around the edges to snap it into place.
• Secure all screws to finish the reassembly.

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Power On and Test

• Press the power button and wait for the boot chime or Apple logo.
• If the unit powers on successfully, the new logic board is functioning.
• Double-check all functions: display, keyboard, trackpad, and speakers.

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CONCLUSION:

This logic board replacement is a detailed but manageable process for those comfortable with MacBook internals. Following each step closely ensures a smooth repair. Always handle flex cables and connectors gently to avoid damage. With the new board in place, your MacBook should function like new. Don’t forget to test all components after reassembly to confirm a successful repair.

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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. Good tools help reduce the risk of accidental slips and stripped screws.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Contact us:

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

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