MacBook Pro 15-inch Retina (2012–2015) Battery Replacement

Apple MacBook Pro

Need a battery replacement for your MacBook Pro 15-inch Retina? We carry out this work in-house at our London workshop, with a fixed quote before we start.

The battery is glued down in six cells across the top case. We remove it with solvent to avoid damage and fit a new one. If your mid-2015 model was part of Apple’s 2019 battery recall and was never serviced, we’ll tell you so you can check with Apple first.

About this model: The 15-inch Retina MacBook Pro (A1398) is still a capable quad-core machine. The 2012 and early-2013 models with NVIDIA GT 650M graphics are prone to video faults; later dual-GPU models also get graphics problems.

Signs it needs a battery replacement

  • Swollen battery
  • Short run time
  • Shutdowns under load
  • Recall-affected units

How we do it

First we confirm the battery really is the problem: cycle count, reported condition, and a check of the charger and charging circuit.

Because the cells are bonded in place, we soften the adhesive and lift them slowly. Forcing a glued battery out is the main way these jobs go wrong.

We then calibrate the new battery, confirm it charges from every port, and dispose of the old cells through a proper battery recycling route.

At a glance

Years 2012–2015
Processor Intel quad-core i7, integrated or dual graphics
Storage Removable Apple SSD blade
Memory Soldered to the logic board
Battery Held with adhesive
Power / charging MagSafe 2

Before you bring it in

Back up your data if you can, note roughly how long a charge lasts now, and bring the charger too, so we can rule it out as the cause.

Which model do you have?

This page covers the MacBook Pro 15-inch Retina (2012–2015) (MacBookPro10,1 / 11,2 / 11,3 / 11,4 / 11,5; A1398). Look under Apple menu > About This Mac, or check the small print on the bottom case for the A-number. Not sure? Bring it in and we’ll identify it for you.

Price

From £185 + VAT supplied and fitted.Apple battery model: A1417 (2012–early 2013), A1494 (late 2013–2015) All prices are subject to inspection, and nothing is done without your approval.

Questions we’re often asked

How long will the new battery last?

A new battery should give you close to the run time it had when new, and typically lasts several years with normal use. Keeping it away from long periods at 100% charge and high heat helps it age more slowly.

Do you use genuine Apple parts?

Yes. We fit genuine Apple parts, and every part is tested in your Mac before we hand it back.

Can you fit an SSD while it’s here?

Yes. This model uses a removable apple ssd blade, and swapping to an SSD at the same time is often the best-value upgrade you can make.