MacBook Battery Replacement: When to Replace

The freelance developer was frustrated. His 2019 MacBook Pro still ran code perfectly, but he couldn't take it to a coffee shop anymore - the battery lasted maybe an hour. "I'm basically tethered to a power socket," he said. "Defeats the point of a laptop."

We checked: 1,247 cycles, 74% capacity. The machine was otherwise in excellent condition. Apple quoted him £249 for battery service with a 5-7 day turnaround. We did it for £179, same day.

We replace about 120 MacBook batteries a year. For machines that are otherwise healthy, it's one of the best value repairs we do - you get years more use from a laptop that already does everything you need. Here's what you need to know.

Pro Tip

MacBook Battery Replacement Statistics (2024-2025)

• • 127 MacBook batteries replaced - mostly 2017-2021 models
• • Average pre-repair capacity: 71% (most below 80% threshold)
• • Same-day completion: 94% of battery replacements
• • Average customer savings: £68 vs Apple Store pricing
• • 27-month warranty on all replacement batteries

When Does a MacBook Battery Need Replacing?

Signs Your Battery Is Failing

• Short battery life - Significantly less than when new
• "Service Recommended" - macOS warning in menu bar or System Settings
• Unexpected shutdowns - MacBook dies even with charge remaining (can also cause startup issues)
• Slow performance - macOS throttles CPU to protect weak battery (see slow Mac guide)
• Trackpad issues - Swelling battery pushes against trackpad
• Physical bulging - Case doesn't sit flat (urgent - stop using)

Warning

If your MacBook doesn't sit flat: This usually indicates battery swelling. Stop using the machine and don't charge it. Bring it in promptly - swollen batteries are a safety concern.

How to Check Battery Health and Cycle Count

Method 1: System Information

1. Hold Option and click the Apple menu
2. Choose System Information
3. Click Power in the sidebar
4. Look for Cycle Count and Condition

Method 2: System Settings (macOS Ventura and later)

1. Open System Settings
2. Click Battery
3. Click the i next to Battery Health

What the Numbers Mean

• Cycle Count - Apple rates MacBook batteries for 1000 cycles
• Condition: Normal - Battery is functioning as expected
• Condition: Service Recommended - Time to consider replacement
• Maximum Capacity - Percentage of original capacity remaining

Below 80% maximum capacity or above 1000 cycles, you'll likely notice reduced battery life. Some batteries last well beyond 1000 cycles; others start struggling earlier.

Replacement Cost by MacBook Model

Apple's battery service actually replaces the entire top case on many models - that's why it's expensive. We replace just the battery cells, which is cheaper and keeps your existing keyboard and trackpad.

Apple vs Independent Repair

For a detailed breakdown, see our full Apple vs independent Mac repair comparison. Here's the summary for battery replacement:

Apple's service is excellent, but the turnaround time is challenging if you rely on your MacBook for work. We offer same-day service for most models.

What Happens During Replacement

1. Diagnostics
   We confirm battery health and check for any other issues.
2. Careful disassembly
   Remove bottom case, disconnect battery and other components.
3. Battery removal
   This is the delicate part - batteries are heavily glued on newer models.
4. New battery installation
   Quality replacement battery fitted with fresh adhesive.
5. Reassembly and calibration
   Full charge cycle, battery calibration, system checks.

Your data remains completely untouched. We work on the battery, not the storage.

Is Replacement Worth It For Your MacBook?

For a comprehensive decision framework, see our is MacBook repair worth it guide. Here's the quick version for batteries:

Definitely Worth It

• MacBook Air M1/M2/M3 (years of life ahead)
• MacBook Pro 2016-2023 (still very capable machines)
• MacBooks in otherwise good condition
• When you need portability for work

Consider Carefully

• MacBook Pro 2015 and earlier (capable but ageing)
• Machines with other issues (keyboard, screen, logic board)
• MacBooks no longer receiving macOS updates

A 2018 MacBook Pro with a new battery can easily serve for another 3-4 years. That's excellent value compared to buying new. We'll always give you honest advice about whether replacement makes sense for your specific machine—see our full UK repair cost guide for pricing across all services.

Ready for a New Battery?

Most MacBook battery replacements are same-day. Bring your machine in, and we'll have it back to you with hours of battery life restored.

Visit us: Byte, Dovehouse Parade, Solihull.
Mail-in: Free shipping both ways for repairs over £100.