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At inception, the MacBook series was touted for seamless performance, lovely design, and long battery life. However, these machines, just like any other electronic gadget out there, are not free from a number of hardware issues-one of which is battery swelling. This may sound really disquieting to one who may be aware that a swollen battery often points toward potential safety issues. In this article, we will be taking a deeper look into what is MacBook Swelling Battery Replacement Cost, what one would need to do if such a situation occurs, and how Apple has generally handled cases like these. Below is the brief discussion about MacBook Swelling Battery Replacement Cost.
 Understanding Swelling Batteries
A swollen battery in a MacBook generally occurs when gases build up inside the battery pack. Usually, this takes place with MacBooks whose lithium-ion cells have started deteriorating. While the problem usually affects older MacBooks after years of usage or when a battery has gone through an immense number of charge cycles, it can also afflict relatively new models because of manufacturing defects or extreme temperature exposure.
The swelling itself carries a number of risks. For one, these can physically damage your MacBook by distorting the chassis, trackpad, or keyboard. More worryingly, if left untreated, a swollen battery may leak chemicals-or even catch fire-these events are very rare, though. Thus, in case you notice your MacBook battery to be swelling, it will be important for you to immediately cease using it and look for a MacBook swelling battery replacement.
Is MacBook Battery Swelling Dangerous?
Yes, though MacBook battery swelling is a slow process, yet it can be dangerous if left untreated. The pressure exerted due to a swelling battery may force internal components of your MacBook to malfunction or get permanently damaged. The expansion could also apply enough force to crack your screen or push out other components, making it hard to close the lid. Although rare, there is also a slight fire hazard or explosion in case the swelling gets serious.
Therefore, getting it replaced is not an issue of performance with respect to your gadget; it is actually an issue of your safety. Whoever goes through this problem, it is very important to take immediate actions. The next question would be regarding the MacBook swelling battery replacement cost, and how does Apple deal with such cases.
Cracks or Leaks in a Swollen MacBook Battery
On the most extreme level of battery swell, you could have cracks or leaks around your MacBook’s chassis. These are generally due to the pressure from an expanding battery that will always cause damage to the body of your laptop and may have other important components inside. A leaking battery is worse; the chemicals in a lithium-ion battery are hazardous and may burn other parts of your MacBook, thus irreparably damaging them. In case you find slight cracks or signs of a leak, it is very important to stop using the device straight away, avoid coming in direct contact with the leaking substance, and seek pro assistance for a **MacBook swelling battery replacement. The leaking battery may be hazardous to health due to long exposure; thus, urgent measures should be taken.
MacBook Swelling Battery Replacement Cost
The replacement cost depends on which MacBook model you have and whether or not your device is still covered under warranty. Most of the time, though, if your MacBook is covered under AppleCare+ or falls under a known recall, you can get a MacBook battery swelling free replacement. This is going to cost you a pretty penny if your warranty has expired.
- MacBook Models No Longer Under Apple’s Warranty
- AppleCare+
- MacBook Pro Battery Swelling Replacement
- Official Apple Repair vs. Third-Party Repairs
1. MacBook Models No Longer Under Apple’s Warranty
Swollen battery replacement costs range from $129 to $199 for different MacBook models, depending on the generation. This would include older MacBook Air models, as those happen to be more affordable than the Retina display MacBook Pros.
2. AppleCare+
If you bought the AppleCare+ for your MacBook, this will drastically reduce the replacement price. AppleCare+ gives you two accidental damage coverage instances per year; generally speaking, a battery that has dropped below 80 percent of its original capacity will see a free or at least reduced-price replacement.
3. MacBook Pro Battery Swelling Replacement
The replacement of the battery swelling for a MacBook Pro, especially the latest models featuring the Touch Bar and Retina Display, tends to go well over average. Such a replacement might start at a minimum cost of $199. Note, however, that most modern MacBooks actually have their batteries glued inside the chassis; it may be required to replace the top case-with-keyboard-and-trackpad in order to replace the battery itself, which adds even more to the repair cost.
4. Official Apple Repair Vs. Third-Party Repairs
Although Apple is still the most reliable repair source, third-party repair shops do offer battery replacements for MacBooks at cheaper prices. This will void any warranty you may still have, and not all third-party replacement batteries are as good in quality compared to certified parts provided by Apple. That’s why, in general, going through official repair services with Apple is best to ensure safety and quality.
Does one replacement come for free?
For the most part, Apple has given free replacements to MacBook users whose batteries have exhibited swelling. You may be eligible for a MacBook battery swelling free replacement if the issue is due to a manufacturing defect and not normal wear and tear. Most importantly, Apple has made sure that in their various programs for battery replacement, once they find out that a certain batch of batteries was defective, they do take responsibility and release free batteries.
Then, contact Apple Support directly or visit the Apple Store for diagnosis. If your MacBook is eligible for free repair, then Apple will replace the battery at no charge to your pocket. Besides, if the swelling has damaged other parts of the device, such as a keyboard or trackpad, then Apple may replace those components at no additional cost.
How to Avoid Battery Swelling
While a swollen battery does seem quite unpredictable, there is something that you can do to try to prevent it.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Always keep your MacBook in moderate temperatures. Very low or high temperatures hurt the performance of the lithium-ion battery and make it swell way before its normal time, so avoid leaving your MacBook in direct sunlight, in a hot car, or freezing conditions for longer time spans.
Do Not Overcharge
Leaving your MacBook always plugged into the wall even after it has reached its full charge overworks the battery and hence reduces its life expectancy. Please disconnect your MacBook when it’s charged to 100% or turn on optimized battery charging, if you want, which is now available in macOS.
Battery Health
macOS is offering a number of options that will let you know your battery’s health; Apple has provided them. You can see the state your MacBook’s battery presently is by going into System Preferences > Battery > Battery Health. If the capacity of your battery has shrunk enough, you may want to replace it before it gets to swelling.
Conclusion of MacBook Swelling Battery Replacement Cost
The swollen battery of your MacBook is irritating and somewhat of a worry; it is, however, paramount you take action with immediate effect to avoid potential safety risks from the battery. The replacement cost for a swelling battery in a MacBook depends on various factors like the status of the warranty and the model but is worth the cost to safeguard your device and your person.
The battery replacement for a MacBook would be around $129 to $199 in price if the warranty has expired for your MacBook. However, with AppleCare+, you may qualify for a MacBook battery swelling free replacement, or if your device is in the list of known recall.
In any case, be sure to consult with Apple or an authorized service provider for the best recommendations and services your MacBook deserves. Replace it immediately to make sure your device continues working optimally, while averting any safety hazards accompanying a swollen battery.
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