01-04-2011, 03:26 PM

Hello to all,

I've had my MacBook Pro for about 18 months; overall, it's been a good experience. The changes from Windows to Mac OSX and from desktop to portable computing has gone fairly well.

Over the past month or so, it seemed that the battery didn't seem to be holding a charge for very long. I'd chalked it up to recent heavy use and the need for a 'calibration'. I wish that had been the end of it...

Only days before Christmas, my mouse was acting strangely. Instead of a tactile 'click', the slightest touch would activate one, two or more mouse 'clicks'; even pressure near to the trackpad and mouse could cause the same actions.

I called AppleCare and after assigning a case ID number, the specialist gave me the options of either mailing my laptop in for service or visiting a nearby Apple Store or authorized service center. Since it was so close to Christmas, I decided to make do with the power adapter until after the holidays.

A few days later, I noticed that the battery was bulging on one side and I removed it. Using it later with the power adapter, the problems with my mouse were now gone. I notified AppleCare of this development, and of my intention to visit a nearby Apple Store with regards to my battery.

Since the nearest location is 1-2 hours away, I again contacted AppleCare to be certain that my trip wasn't going to be a fool's errand. When we discussed the problems with my battery, the specialist asked for detailed information from System Profiler. After supplying the requested data, I was informed that due to the high number of recharge cycles, AppleCare wouldn't cover replacement of the battery. Foolishly, I neglected to raise the issue of the battery's bulge at that time.

However, I did call AppleCare again to discuss the matter. I stated that it was my understanding that old / worn-out batteries were not covered, but I wished to inquire about bulging batteries. The specialist told me that it was 'normal' for batteries after extensive use or if they were old.

The prospect of buying a battery doesn't concern me, but the possibility of dealing with the same situation in a year or so does. If this were only about a 'tired' or worn-out battery, I would've already replaced it and wouldn't be here...

Besides, in what universe are bulging laptop batteries normal?

What do I do now...Is there any recourse with AppleCare? Do I go to a nearby Apple Store, hoping that they'll replace it? Buy a new battery and drop the matter?

I hope someone can help...


Ron

PS: As much as I like my MBP, I'm not sure whether I'd recommend Apple or Mac to friends or family. Whether that changes, only time will tell.

01-04-2011, 04:25 PM

Your problem is actually pretty common. >_>" I've had my MB for almost 3 years now and it's starting to do the battery bulge. This is the original battery that came with the machine and I haven't bought a new battery for it yet. I've only sent my MB in for repair one time but it was more of a cosmetic reason. IE the infamous chipping around the corners on the plastic MBs. >_<"

It's starting to chip again so I'm going to be visiting soon...and well I'm not going to say anything about the battery bulging and see what they say. It's kind of painfully obvious that it's bulging outward like a tumor.

01-04-2011, 04:43 PM

Only a lier will tell you a bulging battery is normal. Just because a lot of them have that problem, doesn't make it ok!

Also, there is no proven correlation between high battery cycles and it being worn out. Batteries with low cycles can have as bad of a life as one with high cycles...especially when dealing with lions/lipos.

01-04-2011, 07:54 PM

@MacDaddy75:

Regardless of whether or not the battery is bulging, Apple considers it consumed when the cycle count reaches 300. You didn't say how many cycles are on the battery.

If you feel up to it, make the long drive to the Apple store and show it to them. If they balk at replacing it because of cycle count, ask to speak with the manager and explain your situation, politely of course. You might get lucky.

01-04-2011, 10:57 PM

Originally Posted by MacDaddy75

I was informed that due to the high number of recharge cycles, AppleCare wouldn't cover replacement of the battery. Foolishly, I neglected to raise the issue of the battery's bulge at that time.

Sorry for the highjack ... but how many cycles do Apple consider a high number ?

01-04-2011, 11:31 PM

Originally Posted by Jbob

Sorry for the highjack ... but how many cycles do Apple consider a high number ?

Originally Posted by chscag

@MacDaddy75:

Regardless of whether or not the battery is bulging, Apple considers it consumed when the cycle count reaches 300. You didn't say how many cycles are on the battery...

Mine is under that but not by very much like 20 more cycles. >_>"

01-05-2011, 01:10 AM

Mines at 668 and my battery is still doing great!

01-05-2011, 08:55 AM

Originally Posted by Jbob

Sorry for the highjack ... but how many cycles do Apple consider a high number ?

Depends on the model. Old batteries (removable) were rated at 300. New ones (integrated into Unibody models) last much longer.

01-05-2011, 09:57 AM

According to Apple, user removable batteries, such as in the aluminum MBP and white MacBooks (prior to the unibody) are supported for one year or 300 charge cycles, whichever comes first. AppleCare, although it covers most other internal components, does not cover these batteries past the 1 year period. (It also doesn't cover cosmetic plastics and non-electronic or non-moving parts as a rule.)

Batteries in the Unibody models, which are not considered user replaceable, have a life expectancy of three years or 1000 charge cycles. However, if the unit has not been covered by AppleCare, the battery will not be covered beyond the 1 year limited warranty period.

That being said, Apple leaves some decisions to the discretion of the lead Genius or store management. My old store was probably more sympathetic to folks with bulging batteries than other stores, but it was never a definite yes or no.

You also have the recourse of calling Apple Customer Relations. It's their job to handle customer concerns about Apple products, and work as a liaison between the customer and Apple Retail.

Good point above, that swollen batteries are not normal, even if they are fairly common. Apple has said in the past that swollen batteries pose no danger, and should be treated as any other battery - determine if in warranty or out of warranty and process normally. However, because of the damage a swollen battery can do to a computer case, trackpad, or other internal components, I would press the issue with Customer Relations request a replacement. Worst they can do is say "No."