jschussler
Level 1 (0 points)

Q: Do I really need a new Macbook battery?

I recently noticed that my Macbook 5,1 battery was swollen after having it for 3 years. I took it in to the Apple Store, they told me it was swollen and weren't really that pushy about replacing it so I'm left wondering if I need to bother. After 3 years and 454 cycles it is still running at 92% of it's design capacity and I haven't had any problems with the battery running out when not attached to the wall. All I want to know is if it's unsafe to have the battery swollen, I have no problems with my trackpad or overheating - essentially I am a student and don't want to pay for a new battery unless it is absolutely necessary.

I've included the Coconut battery stats below.

macbookbattery.jpg

MacBook, Mac OS X (10.6.8)

Posted on Apr 12, 2012 3:37 AM

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jschussler

Q: Do I really need a new Macbook battery?

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  • by Ralph Landry1,

    Ralph Landry1 Apr 12, 2012 3:43 AM in response to jschussler
    Level 8 (41,782 points)
    Apr 12, 2012 3:43 AM in response to jschussler

    Although they said the battery was swollen and did not push you to replace it, a swollen battery is not a good thing.  Swelling can damage other parts of your MacBook and lead to failure of the battery.  It would not be a bad idea to replace the battery in the near future before damage is done.

  • by mpumz,

    mpumz mpumz Apr 12, 2012 4:17 AM in response to jschussler
    Level 1 (40 points)
    Apr 12, 2012 4:17 AM in response to jschussler

    I agree with Ralph, also l have seen the trackpad acting weird when the battery is swollen.

  • by JoeyR,

    JoeyR JoeyR Apr 12, 2012 5:12 AM in response to jschussler
    Level 6 (8,280 points)
    Apr 12, 2012 5:12 AM in response to jschussler

    You basically just need to picture what's going on.  The battery fits into your macbook with pretty much no extra space.  When it expands, it begins putting pressure on the components around it.  The most common symptom is erratic trackpad behavior.  It's not likely to flex enough to damage the logic board, but it is possible.  Especially if the logic board already has any weak solder points, etc.  That little bit of flex may be enough to pop something off.  You've had your battery a good long time.  It's time to replace it.