MacBook Pro 15" Unibody Late 2011 Battery Replacement
By Miroslav Djuric • Difficulty: Moderate
Introduction

Use this guide to replace a worn-out battery. If your battery is swollen, take appropriate precautions.

Lower Case
  • Remove the following ten screws securing the lower case to the upper case:
  • Three 13.5 mm (14.1 mm) Phillips screws.
  • Seven 3 mm Phillips screws.
  • When removing these screws, note how they come out at a slight angle. They must be reinstalled the same way.
Step 2
  • Using both hands, lift the lower case near the vent to pop it off two clips securing it to the upper case.
  • Remove the lower case and set it aside.
Step 3
  • For certain repairs (e.g. hard drive), disconnecting the battery connector is not necessary but is recommended as it prevents any accidental shorting of electronics on the motherboard. If you do not disconnect the battery connector, please be careful as parts of the motherboard might be electrified.
  • Use the edge of a spudger to pry the battery connector upwards from its socket on the logic board.
  • It is useful to pry upward on both short sides of the connector to "walk" it out of its socket.
Step 4
  • Bend the battery cable slightly away from its socket on the logic board so it does not accidentally connect itself while you work.
Step 5
  • Remove the two 7.4 mm Tri-point screws securing the battery to the upper case.
Step 6
  • Carefully peel the battery warning label rounded end (the one without glue) off the upper case between the battery and the optical drive to reveal an additional Tri-point screw.
  • Remove the last 7.4 mm Y0 Tri-point screw securing the battery to the upper case.
  • Do not remove the label from the battery.
Step 7
  • Use the attached plastic pull tab to remove the battery from the upper case.
  • If you're installing a new battery, you should calibrate it after installation:
  • Charge it to 100%, and then keep charging it for at least 2 more hours. Next, unplug and use it normally to drain the battery. When you see the low battery warning, save your work, and keep your laptop on until it goes to sleep due to low battery. Wait at least 5 hours, then charge your laptop uninterrupted to 100%.
  • If you notice any unusual behavior or problems after installing your new battery, you may need to reset your MacBook's SMC.
Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.