On Tuesday, Apple acknowledged the 14-inch MacBook Pro with M5 has an easier-to-remove battery, added the battery to the Self Service Repair Store, and introduced a manual for the process.
Apple's commitment to improving reparability of its various devices has shown amid increased regulatory pressure and user demands in recent years. The Self Service Repair Program isn't exactly the most accessible or affordable, but it exists for more enterprising users.
While tear downs already revealed that the 14-inch MacBook Pro with M5 doesn't require users to remove the trackpad to remove the battery, Apple has officially acknowledged it. The Self Service Repair Store now offers the necessary parts and tools to perform the task, and a manual was also made available.
It might be a self-service program, but Apple is clear from the start of its manual that only those that know what they are doing should perform such tasks. This is a bit more sophisticated than swapping out a radiator or changing the oil in your car.
While more reparable devices are inherently good for everyone involved, AppleInsider is firmly on the side of letting experts handle repairing your expensive electronics. Unless it is your area of expertise, day job, or serious hobby, you shouldn't be taking the case off of your MacBook Pro.
That said, the process of swapping out the batteries in a 14-inch MacBook Pro with M5 seems fairly straightforward. It is done by removing the rear case, discharging the battery, removing the adhesive strips, then placing the new battery assembly inside.
Of course, there's more to it, with 14 steps to disassemble and 27 steps to reassemble. Not having to deal with further disassembly and managing other sensitive components greatly simplifies the process.
The battery itself is $209.25, and users can return their old battery for a $22.50 return credit. That doesn't include the cost of the various tools required to do the job or the time it will take to do it.
Apple's service estimation tool says replacing the battery in a 14-inch MacBook Pro costs $249, while an active AppleCare plan knocks that down to zero. Going through an Apple Authorized Service Provider also comes with some guarantees and protections.
However, the Self Service Repair Program is for more than just enthusiasts — it allows local repair shops that aren't directly authorized by Apple to perform repairs. While access to a Best Buy or Apple Store across the United States is quite abundant, the same can't be said for the rest of the world.
