How much does it cost to replace a MacBook battery?

Apple MacBook devices, including the Pro and Air iterations, are renowned for their popularity. With their instantly recognizable design, a range of configurations catering to both casual users and professionals, and exceptional build quality, it’s no wonder that these laptops are built to withstand the test of time. Many users hold onto their MacBooks for years, but one component that may not age as gracefully is the battery.

Replacing a MacBook battery is possible, but the process can be intricate and time-consuming, depending on your specific model. For a more convenient and reliable solution, it’s often recommended to have the battery replaced at an Apple store or an authorized service center. If you’re wondering about the cost of a MacBook battery replacement, we’ll provide that information in the following sections.

How much does it cost to replace a MacBook battery?

Apple has released multiple MacBook, MacBook Pro, and MacBook Air models over the years. But the company has kept the cost similar, regardless of which model you have. Replacing the battery on a MacBook  and any MacBook Pro going back to the 13-inch version released in 2012, will cost $199. The only exception is the new 14 and 16-inch 2023 MacBook Pros, with a battery replacement cost of $249. However, given how new these devices are, poor battery health is a significant hardware issue that Apple should fix under warranty.

The MacBook Air devices have smaller batteries and don’t cost as much. You will have to pay $129 to replace the battery on any MacBook Air, going back to the 2015 11 and 13-inch models.

MacBooks, MacBook Pros, and MacBook Airs have been around for a long time, with the first MacBook released in 2006. Unfortunately, models older than the 2016 MacBook, 2012 MacBook Pro, and 2015 MacBook Air fall under Apple’s obsolete categorization.

While Apple doesn’t provide hardware services for obsolete products, it makes an exception for MacBooks. An obsolete MacBook is eligible for an extended battery-only repair period for up to ten years from when the product was last sold, as long as the part is available. You will have to contact an Apple store or authorized service provider to check whether they can replace the battery on your older Mac laptop.

Does AppleCare cover MacBook battery replacement?

Every MacBook comes with a limited warranty that includes one year of hardware repair coverage and 90 days of tech support. There are a couple of instances where Apple will replace your MacBook battery for free under the standard warranty. This is primarily if your device has hardware problems like a defective battery. Or if it shows faster-than-expected degradation, which drops your MacBook battery health to below 80 percent within the first year.

With AppleCare Plus, you can get long-term extended coverage and a free battery replacement if the battery health drops below 80 percent. You can subscribe to AppleCare Plus within 60 days of buying a new laptop, with annual and three-year plans available. You can renew your AppleCare Plus protection for MacBooks with annual plans after the initial coverage ends. Prices vary depending on your model, and it is expensive. But it is worth it for everything that the extended warranty covers.

How to know if a MacBook battery needs replacing

A MacBook battery lifespan is around 1,000 charging cycles, or around five years, but performance issues are a good indication that the battery needs replacing. You might want a new battery if the device is overheating, you see unexpected shutdowns and reboots, or if the MacBook doesn’t last very long when disconnected from the charger.

Of course, your MacBook will tell you if you need to replace the battery. Clicking on the battery icon will show you the battery condition. You will see battery service warnings like Service battery, Replace soon, or Replace now if you need to get a new one.

Apple considers a battery healthy if its maximum capacity is above 80 percent. It should take around five years and up to a thousand charging cycles to get below that point. To find out your MacBook’s charging cycles and battery health, click the Apple menu, and go to About this Mac > System report > Power. Under Health information, you will see the Cycle count and Maximum capacity. You should get a battery replacement if the maximum capacity is below 80%.

If your MacBook is old, it may need more than a battery replacement. In this case, consider trading in your MacBook for a trade-in offer or Apple Store credit. It’ll make upgrading to a new model a little more affordable.

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