Replacing MacBook Pro battery?

[gizmo8899]

I'm operating a 2010 MacBook Pro, 13", 2.66Ghz computer and the battery has degraded considerably. As such, I have a few questions:

1) Is it possible (and realistically accomplishable for someone not especially experienced with the inside of a computer) to replace the battery?

2) If so, how much would it cost?

3) What would Apple likely charge instead?

I've added additional RAM to my computer, but that's it. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

[chscag]

The battery in a 2010 MacBook Pro is of the non-removable type according to Apple. However, you can remove it and replace it yourself but you will need a Tri-Wing type screwdriver which you can buy at Home Depot or Lowes. Here's an idea of what it looks like: LINK It's best to buy a genuine Apple replacement battery or one from OWC (Mac Sales). Cost should be around $120-$130.

 

[pigoo3]

Here are the Apple battery replacement prices for the United States. If you're somewhere else…change the country at the top of the link:

Apple out-of-warranty battery service pricing for Mac notebook

Model & Cost

11-inch/13-inch MacBook Air $129 (excluding taxes)
13-inch/15-inch MacBook Pro $129 (excluding taxes)
17-inch MacBook Pro $179 (excluding taxes)
13-inch/15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display $199 (excluding taxes)

Link: Apple - Support - Service Answer Center

- Nick

 

[chscag]

Why the extra bucks for the retina models? That really smarts....

 

[gizmo8899]

Thanks, both!

 

[pigoo3]

Why the extra bucks for the retina models? That really smarts....

Yes that is quite a lot more!

I wasn't 100% sure either…so I checked iFixit. The battery replacement on retina MBP's is way more complicated! Instead of the single easy to remove battery like the non-retina MBP's have…the retina MBP's have the battery that's "all over the place" (battery cell's everywhere)!

I now see why it's $70 more.

- Nick

 

[pm-r]

At those prices, it's almost worth considering one of external battery packs available, and then add a $1.50 for some good quality duct tape to keep things together.

Or just forget using the duct tape. ;D

 

[techiesteve]

The battery for the MacBook Pro Retina models is bonded to the top case and keyboard, that's how Apple supply them, hence the extra cost.