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Being forced to move on.
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No, in the US, if you get a battery replacement, whether in or out of warranty, they replace the entire top case assembly.
[doublepost=1489674899][/doublepost]
Yes, the battery is glued in. Presumably Apple eventually takes them apart and recycles the materials separately.
This seems nonsensical to me. You would go through the effort to part the laptop out only to buy a far, far inferior laptop with the money you get from parting it out? I'd say that really you are LOSING money in that case. I know you're spending less out of your pocket because you're parting out the MBP, but you're getting far less for your money unless you add a little more to what you get from selling it in order to get a better laptop. But at that point you should just shell out the money for the new keyboard from Apple and get another three years out of the MBP. Especially considering the way you're talking about it as "your baby" and whatnot. You clearly love the thing.
Also, as others have said, never, ever have I seen keys fall out of a Mac. I mean I'm sure it happens, and if it is happening as you say it is, I can't imagine it will happen AGAIN if they fix it.
Also, as others have said, never, ever have I seen keys fall out of a Mac. I mean I'm sure it happens, and if it is happening as you say it is, I can't imagine it will happen AGAIN if they fix it.
In light of all this new information, i.e. actually a 2012 machine, battery cycles, non-retina screen (shivvvver) etc., I wouldn't put another dime into this and get a new computer whether it be a Mac or PC, 2015, 2016, Lenovo, and so on. Unless you can get this fixed and running for free with your local laws.
I was doing little upgrades here and there on my 2009 and used it up until last November, but it was non-essential upgrading as opposed to repairing, and it wasn't my primary computer, it probably wasn't even my secondary computer. If this is your one computer, I imagine it's pretty important and you shouldn't risk further downtime. I agree with your title to MOVE ON.
I was doing little upgrades here and there on my 2009 and used it up until last November, but it was non-essential upgrading as opposed to repairing, and it wasn't my primary computer, it probably wasn't even my secondary computer. If this is your one computer, I imagine it's pretty important and you shouldn't risk further downtime. I agree with your title to MOVE ON.
Difficult argument to make though when you have had it apart twice yourself with non original keyboards.
You have an issue out of warranty, which there's a clear solution for, and Apple will likely repair it in a day for you - even with any damage you've caused by making "repairs" you weren't qualified (by your own admission) to attempt.
The problem is that you're cheap. You'd rather half ass a DIY hack job with low quality, knock-off parts than pay for the actual repair from a qualified tech. Then you want to throw a pity party for yourself over having to sell it for parts - again, because you're too cheap to fix it proper.
Your problem is self-caused. Entirely. Fix it right or pass it on for a significant loss. But don't expect people to cater to your whining when you have a clear solution in front of you.
Edit: Jesus. Just read some of the follow-ups in here.
OP, your computer is 5 years old, the battery sounds beyond well used, and is likely swollen, causing the issues with the keyboard. To come here and post, implying you're on a 2014 machine to gain support in your anti-Apple rhetoric is just blatantly deceptive.
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Just to verify something - in 2014 when you purchased the MacBook Pro, did you purchase it new or used? Also, was the smaller shop you purchased from, that is no longer in business, an Apple Authorized retailer?
While perhaps not ideal, if you are unable to afford the repair by Apple, have already taken the computer apart, and are willing to assume the risks of taking it apart again, have you considered using a reasonably well-reviewed third-party option, such as this?
https://www.amazon.com/Eathtek-Keyboard-without-Macbook-A1278/dp/B0065UZMJ8
(obviously, the quality, fitment, and cosmetics will be inferior to OEM, but it is a pretty small financial risk compared to the alternatives)
While perhaps not ideal, if you are unable to afford the repair by Apple, have already taken the computer apart, and are willing to assume the risks of taking it apart again, have you considered using a reasonably well-reviewed third-party option, such as this?
https://www.amazon.com/Eathtek-Keyboard-without-Macbook-A1278/dp/B0065UZMJ8
(obviously, the quality, fitment, and cosmetics will be inferior to OEM, but it is a pretty small financial risk compared to the alternatives)
As an Amazon Associate, MacRumors earns a commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this post.
Cost me 60 aud to replace my 2011 MBP keyboard and 1.5 years later still going strong, Didnt do the top cover just the million and 1 screws and new K/B.
LOL seriously there are a lot of screws. It wasn't too hard for me to replace the keyboard in my late 2011 MacBook 15" either.
I think the reason why it was brought up about the top cover replacement was because it was originally indicated that this was a 2014 MacBook Pro and then later it was clarified that it was a 2011 MacBook Pro purchased in 2014 which changed things because of differences in the models.
It tedious and takes ages and the removing of the backlight membrane plus screws really does test your patience but it makes it perfect and works perfect - keyboard is a keyboard the boards are the same since the 70's... Love watching people call him names due him not wanting to fork out 350 pounds.... when its a PITA but rewarding and cheap todo this.
First of all, it's a Mid-2012 non-retina unibody Pro - one of you seems to think this model didn't exist.
Purchased in February 2014, brand new from a company called Sunley Electroncs here in the U.K. With a valid purchases date in Apples system.. originally purchased in Hong Kong Apple told me. It has the international keyboard format. Ironically.. the retailed closed due to selling grey imports and avoiding tax..
I am very qualified to repair this machine. I don't hold Apple certification, but that doesn't make me incapable. I've successfully fitted these keyboards multiple times and they've worked briefly before catastrophic failure due to their lousy quality.. so no issues in fitting.
The issue, is the eBay parts, yes. They're poor quality. A third one is on its way. Unfortunately, it'll be going straight on eBay - and right now, the rest of the machine has been priced, listed and calculated up by myself. Disassembled. Never to be started again as a single unit.
Nobody other than Authorised Apple Repair centres can do Any better since they can't get genuine parts. Not new ones. And no, I won't pay someone else's labour to fit a used one when I can do that myself.
I've sank too much money into the machine. It was a labour of love. Very satisfying and rewarding to experience the unibodys quality whilst working on it. But it never worked right with the new parts. The novelty wore off having to do this so many times. I'm now thinking.. well if this machine was really such good quality why the hell am I having to do this.
I've got friends with Lenovos and Dells at half the price .. using their computers as much as me in the same ways. Only thing is.. they aren't marketed as business or Pro machines. And yet.. their 2014 and 2013 laptops don't have failing keyboards. Computers whose very appearance screams lousy quality vs my rigid, pristine looking Pro. They have every right to laugh me down now when I preach Apples quality.
And it's okay that sometimes these things break. But in my opinion, Apple is out of line to have such a restrictive policy as to refuse me buying genuine parts myself. Could you imagine if car companies started doing this?
Fair enough. they're a private company. They can do what they want. It sells. It works.
Not for me. This is the line for me.
They might have gained 1000 more customers in losing me as their profit and popularity continues to soar.. but when that begins to decline and innovation isn't so rife, those 1000 customers will move to the next trend. I was a loyal Apple fan and I tolerated a lot of the financial commitment, lower specs compatibility issues etc. And it's always been a worth while trade off until now.
But no more.
I'm going to Lenovo. Their build quality is up there. I've investigated this. In some ways they're built to withstand more than any Mac. The keyboards are comfortable. Can take a beating.
What's more.. they will sell me genuine parts when I need them.
The charger isn't £80
They offer on site / at home repair services
They'll even give me a decent student discount
They're simply offering me a more robust product at an affordable price and their after care is , to my shock and surprise as a former loyal Apple fan, superior and more logical.
Do I want to make the change? No really. But more importantly. In the future if I had a new MacBook Pro.. I would be a fool to end up in the same situation twice - apple aren't changing for me.
In fact, if they pull any crafty tricks on the iPhone SE resulting in poor support before it's acceptable perhaps I'll move from iOS too.
This ecosystem no longer works for me.
I hope some of you will see this as a genuine perspective and experience to be discussed and reflected upon. I will only laugh at acqusitions that I'm a troll or something ..
[doublepost=1489711595][/doublepost]RIP MacBook Pro 13"
February 2014 - March 2017
"Think different aboht 'Pro' product expectations"
Thankfully my Mac will donate its parts to others so they don't have such a sh*tty experience of Apples 'you're an idiot who can't be trusted to fit parts' policy.
Butt hurt level 11/10
Purchased in February 2014, brand new from a company called Sunley Electroncs here in the U.K. With a valid purchases date in Apples system.. originally purchased in Hong Kong Apple told me. It has the international keyboard format. Ironically.. the retailed closed due to selling grey imports and avoiding tax..
I am very qualified to repair this machine. I don't hold Apple certification, but that doesn't make me incapable. I've successfully fitted these keyboards multiple times and they've worked briefly before catastrophic failure due to their lousy quality.. so no issues in fitting.
The issue, is the eBay parts, yes. They're poor quality. A third one is on its way. Unfortunately, it'll be going straight on eBay - and right now, the rest of the machine has been priced, listed and calculated up by myself. Disassembled. Never to be started again as a single unit.
Nobody other than Authorised Apple Repair centres can do Any better since they can't get genuine parts. Not new ones. And no, I won't pay someone else's labour to fit a used one when I can do that myself.
I've sank too much money into the machine. It was a labour of love. Very satisfying and rewarding to experience the unibodys quality whilst working on it. But it never worked right with the new parts. The novelty wore off having to do this so many times. I'm now thinking.. well if this machine was really such good quality why the hell am I having to do this.
I've got friends with Lenovos and Dells at half the price .. using their computers as much as me in the same ways. Only thing is.. they aren't marketed as business or Pro machines. And yet.. their 2014 and 2013 laptops don't have failing keyboards. Computers whose very appearance screams lousy quality vs my rigid, pristine looking Pro. They have every right to laugh me down now when I preach Apples quality.
And it's okay that sometimes these things break. But in my opinion, Apple is out of line to have such a restrictive policy as to refuse me buying genuine parts myself. Could you imagine if car companies started doing this?
Fair enough. they're a private company. They can do what they want. It sells. It works.
Not for me. This is the line for me.
They might have gained 1000 more customers in losing me as their profit and popularity continues to soar.. but when that begins to decline and innovation isn't so rife, those 1000 customers will move to the next trend. I was a loyal Apple fan and I tolerated a lot of the financial commitment, lower specs compatibility issues etc. And it's always been a worth while trade off until now.
But no more.
I'm going to Lenovo. Their build quality is up there. I've investigated this. In some ways they're built to withstand more than any Mac. The keyboards are comfortable. Can take a beating.
What's more.. they will sell me genuine parts when I need them.
The charger isn't £80
They offer on site / at home repair services
They'll even give me a decent student discount
They're simply offering me a more robust product at an affordable price and their after care is , to my shock and surprise as a former loyal Apple fan, superior and more logical.
Do I want to make the change? No really. But more importantly. In the future if I had a new MacBook Pro.. I would be a fool to end up in the same situation twice - apple aren't changing for me.
In fact, if they pull any crafty tricks on the iPhone SE resulting in poor support before it's acceptable perhaps I'll move from iOS too.
This ecosystem no longer works for me.
I hope some of you will see this as a genuine perspective and experience to be discussed and reflected upon. I will only laugh at acqusitions that I'm a troll or something ..
[doublepost=1489711595][/doublepost]RIP MacBook Pro 13"
February 2014 - March 2017
"Think different aboht 'Pro' product expectations"
Thankfully my Mac will donate its parts to others so they don't have such a sh*tty experience of Apples 'you're an idiot who can't be trusted to fit parts' policy.
Butt hurt level 11/10
Attachments
It's a computer, not your wife of 20 years that you just found in bed with your best friend.
You bought a questionable gray market MacBook from an even more questionable dealer that eventually got put out of business for what? Questionable business practices.
You had a lousy experience because you chose to use low quality replacement parts. That's on you - not Apple. If you want to be bitter and let a slab of aluminum, glass, and plastic have the power to betray you so deeply that you write a manifesto to the internet over it, you don't need a new computer. You need a therapist.
That's true. It's only a computer. It's the second most expensive thing I own Bar my car though and I spent way too many hours of the day using it. So I do pay a little more for a good branded one and expect a little more as a result. I only go to such great detail as I'm talking to other Apple fans etc who assumably are also here to talk about their experiences too.
It's was a legitimate, BNIB, sealed MacBook Pro when I got it. If it wasnt.. it wouldn't be on Apples system and the purchase date wouldnt magically match the first time I turned it on.
That's true. Lousy parts are to blame. But don't act like I have another choice other than Apples price. It's directly their fault that I cannot get the right parts without paying them for labour to fit them. That's fine and they're not breaking the law. But other companies are offering a much more economical and favourable augmented product and it's converting me away from the Mac.
Thank you @atlas_0. You've made me laugh and you're on point, but...
@SB-MBP, I actually read your entire diatribe and I am surprisingly...moved. Not that I am the posting QA or anything, but that was pretty logical and reasonable given your experience and the issue of Apple OEM parts policy (I did not know that). Maybe people have a point that it all started from a questionable decision at first, but that experience kind of sucked and I wouldn't blame you for being pissed. That being said, you're probably making another questionable decision believing that Lenovo quality and support are superior to Apple's based on the small sample size you are familiar with, but what the hell. It's worth a try after that experience. All computers of any brand are a crapshoot to some degree. Even these holy Macs sometimes have issues as you can see from this ridiculous forum. I truly wish you better luck on your next laptop. Macs aren't the answer to everyone's problems, just for some of us.
Man, I was really expecting your response to all this flame to suck, but it was quite good. Bravo.
@SB-MBP, I actually read your entire diatribe and I am surprisingly...moved. Not that I am the posting QA or anything, but that was pretty logical and reasonable given your experience and the issue of Apple OEM parts policy (I did not know that). Maybe people have a point that it all started from a questionable decision at first, but that experience kind of sucked and I wouldn't blame you for being pissed. That being said, you're probably making another questionable decision believing that Lenovo quality and support are superior to Apple's based on the small sample size you are familiar with, but what the hell. It's worth a try after that experience. All computers of any brand are a crapshoot to some degree. Even these holy Macs sometimes have issues as you can see from this ridiculous forum. I truly wish you better luck on your next laptop. Macs aren't the answer to everyone's problems, just for some of us.
Man, I was really expecting your response to all this flame to suck, but it was quite good. Bravo.
Thanks for your reply. I'm glad you don't recommend I see a psychiatrist! Lol
Maybe I'm being hard on them and Apple certainly is great in many many ways. But for ME, this is the next step and I do feel like sharing the blunt experience cannot do anyone any harm and that perhaps future readers will know what to expect should anything like this happen their machines.
Lenovo seems to be 'up there' in terms of build quality. I'm aware that quality isn't as polished as Apples but putting my faith in the rought but ready type of quality I read so much about. It'll be an experience. That's for sure.
Have you contacted either of these groups?
http://www.welovemacs.com/aplake.html
https://www.dvwarehouse.com/Apple-Backlit-Keyboard-for-MacBook-Pro-13-2009---2012---NEW-p-41807.html
http://www.welovemacs.com/aplake.html
https://www.dvwarehouse.com/Apple-Backlit-Keyboard-for-MacBook-Pro-13-2009---2012---NEW-p-41807.html
You are mistaken. The 2012 cMBP was a different model than the 2011 MBP. The CPU was a generation more advanced. The 2011 had HD3000 iGPU, where as the 2012 had HD4000. The 15" came with the same 650m dGPU as the 2012 retina MBP.
This story is a little convoluted. I can attest that my 2008 unibody MBP had its battery swell in 2013, but that caused trackpad issues, as the battery is directly under the trackpad. I doubt the battery is causing the keys to fall off, as the battery is not under the keyboard.
My guess is the MBP has been ridden hard, no put out wet.
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My battery has not swollen.
It's just at the end of its life since I've surpassed the 1,000 charges Apples marketing says they were designed to last to. I'll give them credit for that, they're near right on the mark there.
Pity about the keyboard.
I did buy a wireless keyboard today but i still have no way to power it on or off so that's not a good solution in that regard
It's just at the end of its life since I've surpassed the 1,000 charges Apples marketing says they were designed to last to. I'll give them credit for that, they're near right on the mark there.
Pity about the keyboard.
I did buy a wireless keyboard today but i still have no way to power it on or off so that's not a good solution in that regard
Thank you for pointing that out. I didn't realize that the machine got a spec bump in its last year.
No need to be rude though.
This how Apple is, they have never wanted the user to access the internals of their systems, always making it difficult to do so. In many respects the new 2016 MBP is the pinnacle of this premise as even if you "crack" open the case there is little to nothing you can actually do or replace as the user. If looking for a level of self repair and or user upgrades Thinkpad's are a solid choice as it's how they are designed.
Q-6
Q-6
The price Apple quoted you sounds like the rate they charge for flat rate repairs, so you could try one more place. I don't think it's going to be cheap though. Repairs are always a 90 day warranty. If you have Applecare, it adds 2 years for the price of one flat rate repair, but in my experience, that isn't worthwhile.
Note if it is something akin to depot repair, they would change the battery and do whatever else needs to be done when they take it in. Just check with them if you go back.
Apple brand Keyboard for $38 USD, in-stock.
https://www.dvwarehouse.com/Apple-Backlit-Keyboard-for-MacBook-Pro-13-2009---2012---NEW-p-41807.html
https://www.dvwarehouse.com/Apple-Backlit-Keyboard-for-MacBook-Pro-13-2009---2012---NEW-p-41807.html