Component replacements

>>> Ba ttery

If your MacBook’s battery is failing, hold Opt, click the Apple menu and choose System Information, then click Power in the list on the left of the new window. Compare the battery’s cycle count to what’s stated for your model at bit.ly/

mbcycles: if lower, Apple may replace the battery for free. Older models have batteries a nimblefingered user can replace; try an online retailer. Apple charges $129 to $199 to replace a MacBook battery: see bit.ly/macsrvrep.

>>> Storage

If Disk Utility can’t get a drive working reliably, replace it. You’ve got a Time Machine backup, right? Internal drives are awkward to replace in most Macs (if possible at all), but straightforward for professionals with the right tools, whether Apple or independent. No repairer will promise to save your data, but ask them to transfer it to another drive if feasible, and check their process for handling it confidentially and destroying/ returning the dead drive.

>>> Keyboards and mice

Keyboards, mice, and trackpads aren’t usually economical to repair: for the cost of the labor, you could buy a new one. If you think yours has worn out too soon, report it as a fault or get it looked at by a Genius Bar; it should at least last the one–year warranty period Apple gives you. Outside of this, Apple charges shipping to replace an input device’s battery. If you have to ditch gear, check how your local waste management body accepts electrical waste.

>>> Display

If anything should happen to your Mac’s display, repairing it can cost several hundred dollars. You’ll need to contact a Genius Bar or Authorized Service Provider to get an individual quote for this. Use Google to find firms offering a nationwide repair service at prices claimed to beat Apple’s. You’ll need to go through the online help steps (see left) or a Genius Bar to get Apple’s estimate — worth it for comparison’s sake, if you can get your Mac to a store.