advice for getting data off a MacBook Pro with dead battery.

so about a year ago, my 2013 mbp retina's battery started inching towards its death. I ended up upgrading to a 2020 model. TL; DR version: is there a way to get access to the files on the ssd of the '13 mbp given that I can't get past a screen that has the battery with a tiny red line and the lightning bolt? I'd first prefer a way that doesn't involve me dismantling it. but at this point, im also not turning down any suggestions that do involve that. thanks in advance!


a little more details:


recently, I realized that I unfortunately didn't back everything up to iCloud. speaking specifically of my GarageBand folder.


once I realized it, I immediately went and grabbed my old mbp and plugged it in. given that it had been a while since I'd used it, I was encouraged by it at least the screen coming on and showing the battery with the small red line and the "lightning bolt" icon. but after an hour, when I press the power button, I just keep getting that same screen. I'm sure there's a bigger issue at play here like the circuitry or something, but I'm really hoping there's a (simple enough) solution.


when I search the internet, nothing seems to be helpful for my specific situation. I am not opposed to solutions that cost money, but I still am not trying to spend an obscene amount as honestly, once I (fingers crossed) get the files, I'm totally done with the old laptop. I truly appreciate any help/advice

MacBook Pro Retina

Posted on Apr 25, 2022 7:04 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 26, 2022 5:15 PM

Unfortunately once the battery has been left completely discharged for any length of time it can prevent an Apple laptop from powering on or even charging the battery. You should never let a Lithium-ion Battery remain completely discharged for very long or the battery may become damaged.


You will need to open the laptop in order to access your data. There are two options. One is to disconnect the battery from the Logic Board, connect the charger and attempt to power on the laptop. This will usually allow the laptop to power on. If it powers on, then you can try re-connecting the battery while the laptop is still powered on to see if the battery will actually start to charge. If it starts to charge, then don't disconnect the charger or power off the laptop until the battery is charged at least 10%, otherwise permanent damage will may occur. If the battery has been discharged for a while, then be careful to keep an eye on the laptop/battery as a battery many times will begin to swell causing damage to the laptop's case (especially the Trackpad).


The other option is to remove the original Apple SSD and install it into an OWC Envoy Pro Enclosure so you can connect it to another Mac. Apple had several different blade style SSDs, so make sure to get the enclosure for the model of the broken laptop. You can get the exact model of the laptop by entering your serial number here:

Check Your Service and Support Coverage - Apple Support


FYI, iCloud is not a backup. iCloud is a file syncing service which allows you to conveniently access a file using multiple devices.


You should always have frequent and regular backups of your computer and all external media (including the cloud) which contains important & unique data.




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2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 26, 2022 5:15 PM in response to bumblebree92

Unfortunately once the battery has been left completely discharged for any length of time it can prevent an Apple laptop from powering on or even charging the battery. You should never let a Lithium-ion Battery remain completely discharged for very long or the battery may become damaged.


You will need to open the laptop in order to access your data. There are two options. One is to disconnect the battery from the Logic Board, connect the charger and attempt to power on the laptop. This will usually allow the laptop to power on. If it powers on, then you can try re-connecting the battery while the laptop is still powered on to see if the battery will actually start to charge. If it starts to charge, then don't disconnect the charger or power off the laptop until the battery is charged at least 10%, otherwise permanent damage will may occur. If the battery has been discharged for a while, then be careful to keep an eye on the laptop/battery as a battery many times will begin to swell causing damage to the laptop's case (especially the Trackpad).


The other option is to remove the original Apple SSD and install it into an OWC Envoy Pro Enclosure so you can connect it to another Mac. Apple had several different blade style SSDs, so make sure to get the enclosure for the model of the broken laptop. You can get the exact model of the laptop by entering your serial number here:

Check Your Service and Support Coverage - Apple Support


FYI, iCloud is not a backup. iCloud is a file syncing service which allows you to conveniently access a file using multiple devices.


You should always have frequent and regular backups of your computer and all external media (including the cloud) which contains important & unique data.




Apr 26, 2022 1:10 PM in response to bumblebree92

Hello bumblebree92,


Thank for posting in the Apple Support Communities. It sounds like the older MacBook is to the point it can't fully power up due to battery issues. Without a backup of the MacBook or having a battery replacement, there isn't going to be a way to access files from that device.


If you do have a backup available, check out Restore your Mac from a backup - Apple Support for details on how to access your files.


Best regards.


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advice for getting data off a MacBook Pro with dead battery.

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