Replace a Bad Keyboard on 16-inch MacBook Pro M1 Pro (A2485) – Fix Liquid Damage or Broken Keys

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OVERVIEW:

In this repair guide, we’re tackling a common issue with the 16-inch MacBook Pro—keyboard failure due to liquid damage. Our customer was quoted $850 by Apple for a full top-case replacement, including unnecessary components like the speakers and battery. Instead, we offered a precise and cost-effective solution: replacing only the keyboard. This tutorial covers every step of the process from start to finish, using in-stock replacement parts. Whether your keyboard is sticky, missing keys, or water-damaged, follow this in-depth walkthrough to restore your MacBook to full functionality.

See the official Apple specs for the 16″ MacBook Pro M1 Pro

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REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 1.5 HOURS to complete and is of ADVANCED difficulty, requiring complete logic board removal, careful handling of delicate components, and attention to cable alignment.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a plastic spudger for safe prying, a Pentalobe P1 screwdriver for the bottom case, Torx T3, T5, and T6 screwdrivers for various internal brackets and screws, a sharp spudger tip to remove keyboard adhesive, and a hex socket driver for the 4.0 mm screws. Scotch tape is also useful for temporary alignment during reinstallation.

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Remove the Bottom Case

• Flip the MacBook over and remove all eight Pentalobe screws using the P1 screwdriver.
• Insert a plastic spudger and gently slide your fingers around the perimeter to lift the bottom case about an inch.
• Pull the top case slightly toward you to detach it from internal latches.

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Disconnect the Battery

• Disconnect the battery by removing the two screws securing the trackpad flex cable.
• Detach the daughterboard-to-battery cable and remove the pancake screw using a Torx T5.
• Use a spudger to lift the battery connector off the logic board, then press the power button for 10 seconds to discharge residual power.

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Remove Logic Board Brackets

• Unscrew and remove all logic board brackets using a Torx T3 screwdriver.
• Carefully set each bracket aside, keeping track of their placement.

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Disconnect Flex Cables

• Systematically disconnect each flex cable attached to the logic board: keyboard, backlight, fans, speakers, USB-C, Magsafe, sleep sensor, microphone, and display cables.
• Be gentle to avoid damaging connectors, especially the display flex cables.

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Remove Heatsink Screws

• Use a T6 screwdriver to remove the two screws at the corners of the heatsinks.
• Proceed to remove the two 4.0 mm hex socket screws holding additional components in place.

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Disconnect Additional Cables

• Carefully disconnect additional U-flex cables from their connectors.
• Pay attention to the position of each cable to simplify reinstallation.

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Remove Logic Board

• Begin lifting the logic board from one side using a spudger while checking for any remaining connections.
• Avoid bending the board—do not flex it as the NAND data chip could be permanently damaged.

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Remove the Fans

• Use a T5 Torx for two screws and a T3 for the other two screws securing each fan.
• Use a plastic spudger to peel off fan flex cables stuck to the backlight.
• Gently lift and remove the fans and set them aside.

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Remove the Damaged Keyboard Backlight

• Carefully peel the damaged backlight which is held by double-sided tape.
• Use a sharp-pointed plastic spudger to lift and remove the entire backlight, especially if liquid damage is visible.

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Unscrew and Remove the Keyboard

• Using a P1 Pentalobe driver, remove all screws securing the keyboard.
• Be cautious not to damage display flex cables positioned near the keyboard.
• Once all screws are out, lift and remove the damaged keyboard.

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Install the New Keyboard

• Place the new keyboard in position and secure it by reinstalling all screws.
• Ensure proper alignment before tightening each screw.

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Install a New Backlight

• Position the new keyboard backlight over the keyboard.
• Use the side of your spudger to press the adhesive portions firmly into place.

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Reinstall the Fans

• Place each fan in its original position and secure with T5 and T3 screws.
• Ensure fan gaskets are aligned and tucked in properly during reinstallation.

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Reinsert the Logic Board

• Slide the logic board back into place, starting from the left and aligning it with USB ports
• Secure all mounting screws including T5 and hex socket bits.
  Reconnect all flex cables one by one, ensuring none are pinched or misaligned.

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Reconnect Flex Cables and Screws

• Reconnect each flex cable one-by-one, including USB, display, sleep sensor, fans, and trackpad.
• Reinstall the pancake screw and battery connector to restore power.

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Reconnect the Battery and Trackpad

• Reinstall the pancake screw and battery controller cable.
• Lock the battery connector in place.
• Reconnect the trackpad cable and secure it with its bracket.

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Final Assembly and Test

• Reattach the bottom case and snap it into place.
• Reinstall all eight Pentalobe screws.
• Power on the laptop to verify the repair was successful.
• Confirm that the new keyboard is working properly and all functions are restored.

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CONCLUSION:

This MacBook Pro keyboard replacement demonstrates how you can save hundreds of dollars by replacing only the faulty component instead of the entire top case. While the repair is complex, careful attention to detail and proper tools make it manageable. Always take your time with disassembly and reassembly to avoid damaging sensitive parts. Testing the keyboard afterward ensures that your work paid off. With this guide, you’re one step closer to restoring your MacBook to full function.

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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.

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. Quality tools improve accuracy and reduce the risk of error during complex repairs.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Contact us:

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

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YOUR EXPERIENCE MATTERS: