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OVERVIEW:

In this guide, we’ll walk you through replacing the battery on the 2020 MacBook Pro Model A2338 with the M1 chip. This process also applies to the M2 variant of the same chassis. Whether your battery has degraded or is completely dead, this step-by-step tutorial will help you safely remove the old battery and install a new one. We’ll also guide you on handling adhesive strips, protecting the trackpad, and ensuring the new battery is properly aligned. Follow the instructions carefully to complete the repair successfully.

See official Apple specs for this model

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REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 1-2 HOURS to complete and is of INTERMEDIATE difficulty, requiring careful handling of internal components and familiarity with basic disassembly techniques.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a pentalobe screwdriver, a T5 Torx driver, a suction cup for lifting the bottom case, isopropyl alcohol to loosen adhesive strips, a flat-edge pry tool or scraper, paper towels for cleaning residue, and a plastic spudger for safely disconnecting flex cables. A replacement battery with pre-installed adhesive is also required.

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Remove Bottom Case

• Flip the MacBook Pro over and locate the six pentalobe screws.
• Remove all six screws. Note that the two top screws are longer than the bottom four.
• Use a suction cup to gently lift and remove the bottom case.

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Disconnect the Battery

• Always begin internal work by disconnecting the power source.
• Unplug the battery daughterboard cable from the logic board.
• Remove the T5 screw securing the jumper from the logic board to the battery and bend the jumper cable aside.

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Remove the Trackpad Flex Cable and Battery Screws

• Using the T5 driver, remove the trackpad flex cable from the board.
• Unscrew the two T5 screws securing the battery daughterboard.
• Open the retention bracket and carefully remove the flex cable that will be reused with the new battery.

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Remove the Trackpad for Safety

• Optionally—but highly recommended—remove the trackpad to prevent damage.
• Remove the four T5 screws securing the trackpad.
• Gently unplug the trackpad flex cable and peel it back.
• Slightly open the unit and slide out the trackpad to reveal the components below.

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Apply Isopropyl Alcohol to Battery

• With the trackpad removed, apply isopropyl alcohol around all battery cells.
• Let the alcohol soak in to loosen the adhesive strips.
• This step helps prevent damage when prying the battery out.

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Pry Out the Battery

• Use a flat-edge pry tool to gently lift and remove the battery from the top case.
• Work slowly and cautiously to avoid bending or puncturing the battery.
• Once removed, place the battery aside for proper recycling.

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Remove Adhesive Residue

• Reapply isopropyl alcohol to the remaining adhesive strips.
• Let the solution soak for a few minutes to break down the residue.
• Use a scraping tool to remove all adhesive strips thoroughly.

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Clean the Surface

• Wipe the area where the new battery will sit with a paper towel.
• Ensure the surface is free from any adhesive or debris for proper installation.

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Prepare and Align the New Battery

• Unbox your new battery. It comes with pre-installed adhesive.
• Remove the protective film from the adhesive strips.
• Carefully align the battery with the lower two notches and upper screw points.
• Gently place the battery, ensuring all alignment points are correct before pressing it down.

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Secure Battery Daughterboard

• Reinsert and tighten the two T5 screws to secure the battery daughterboard.
• Reconnect the battery daughterboard flex cable.
• Close the retention bracket to lock the cable in place.

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Reinstall the Trackpad

• Slide the trackpad back into position within the top case.
• Plug in the trackpad flex cable and secure it to the case.
• Reinstall the four T5 screws to hold the trackpad firmly in place.

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Reconnect Jumper and Battery Cable

• Use a T5 pancake screw to reconnect the jumper from the logic board to the battery.
• Plug in the new battery’s management flex cable to the board.

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Test the Repair

• Before closing the unit, plug in the charger.
• Ensure the device powers on—though the screen may appear dim if the battery is depleted.
• Confirm that charging has initiated properly.

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Close the Bottom Case

• Replace the bottom case and secure it with the six pentalobe screws.
• Remember: the top two screws are the longest, while the bottom four vary in length with the center two being the shortest.

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CONCLUSION:

Replacing the battery on the MacBook Pro A2338 is a manageable process with the right tools and careful steps. Removing the trackpad makes adhesive removal much safer and protects internal components. Be sure to align your new battery properly and double-check connections before powering on. If done correctly, your MacBook should power on and begin charging with the new battery. Take your time and follow each step closely for 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. This guarantees professional-level results even for DIY repairs.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Contact us:

• Phone: 818-456-4479
• Email: support@tekdep.com

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