Apple’s Keyboard Replacement Program - don’t wait too long!

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Many MacBook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro computers are eligible for a free repair, if you don’t wait too long…

Starting with the new MacBook in 2015, Apple launched a wholly new “butterfly” keyboard mechanism, which quickly became the standard on all their laptop models (except for the old-style 2015 and 2017 MacBook Air which still used the MagSafe Charger). Unfortunately, this butterfly keyboard mechanism’s first incarnation was a little less durable than expected. Many customers worldwide have reported issues such as keys repeating, not registering, or feeling “sticky” or unresponsive. Fortunately, if you have one of the affected models and are experiencing less-than-ideal functioning, we can replace the top case free of charge thanks to an Apple Quality Program. The program covers eligible MacBook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro models for four years after the first retail sale of the unit. 4 years creeps up quickly, so don’t delay! Bring your Mac in for service as soon as you are able. 

Eligible Models

To identify your computer's model and to see if it is eligible for this program, choose Apple () menu > About This Mac. Eligible models are listed below.

  • MacBook (Retina, 12-­inch, Early 2015)

  • MacBook (Retina, 12­-inch, Early 2016)

  • MacBook (Retina, 12-­inch, 2017)

  • MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2018)

  • MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2019)

  • MacBook Pro (13­-inch, 2016, Two Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

  • MacBook Pro (13-­inch, 2017, Two Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports)

  • MacBook Pro (13-­inch, 2016, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

  • MacBook Pro (13-­inch, 2017, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

  • MacBook Pro (15-­inch, 2016)

  • MacBook Pro (15-­inch, 2017)

  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

  • MacBook Pro (15-­inch, 2018)

  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

  • MacBook Pro (15-­inch, 2019)

Recently we’ve been seeing a number of Macs which demonstrate the problems addressed by Apple’s Quality Program, but have simply aged out of eligibility for the free repair. An out of pocket estimate on a new top case ranges from $399 to $599 so it is definitely a good idea to get it done for $0 while you are eligible. Keep in mind that both the 13” and 15” MacBook Pro’s also get new batteries as they are part of the top case. This is an added benefit and makes your computer even more valuable as it will have a brand new battery!

The repair process is pretty standard: at your convenience, drop off your Mac for diagnostics. Apple ships parts overnight, so we typically will have the repair completed the next business day. We do need the computer to stay with us during the repair. The turnaround time is a bit variable based on how busy we are with other work, however this is a slower time of year so we should be able to focus on these repairs. We would be happy to communicate with you regarding our current repair queue and expected turnaround time if you like. Call or email with any questions.

One more thing: we can’t stress enough how important it is for all customers to have a full Time Machine backup. Always backup your Mac before having any service performed. If you don’t have a a backup, we would be happy to set one up for you before we begin service on your Mac.