MacBook Pro power problem despite multiple repairs

A month ago, my 2021 M1 MacBook Pro started showing an “X” symbol on the battery. The fans would run constantly and the computer would only start when plugged in, though this sometimes didn’t happen; it seemed random. I took it to an authorized repair service, who replaced the battery, yet the problem persisted despite this. I then took it to another authorized service, who diagnosed the issue as being with the cable. I have finally gotten the laptop back from the second place, but now the issue is happening again despite using a different cable.


Nothing I’ve tried has worked—no way to reset SMC with Apple Silicon, though I did try factory resetting the device. I urgently need this computer for university. Do I need to have the logic board replaced?


Thanks.

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 12.5

Posted on Sep 3, 2023 12:11 PM

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Sep 3, 2023 7:28 PM in response to a_c_47_

There is still a slim chance it could be the connecting cable. This cable sometimes is very difficult to connect properly and seems to slip out more often (at least on the 2020 Intel model I just recently worked on), than the older models...I haven't worked on too many Apple Silicon Macs yet. I would recommend a tech actually use Kapton Tape to hold the cable in place even though the connector does have a locking lever...I don't think the locking lever is sufficient on their own. In fact, Apple has a bit of adhesive on the cable tab to hold the cable to the connector to help prevent it from dislodging in case any jarring movement while transporting the laptop causes the cable to wiggle loose...once the cable is disconnected, it never holds as well (a new cable would have a fresh adhesive strip).


Assuming the replacement Battery or Cable is not the issue, then the next logical part would be a defective Logic Board. Unfortunately with these newer Macs it really is not easy to troubleshoot them like it was with the older non-Retina models. It is not easy just to slip in a new battery for testing since the battery is part of the larger Top Case Assembly which includes the Keyboard, Trackpad, Palmrest, Speakers, and Battery (the battery is glued to the underside of the Palmrest & Trackpad)....the whole laptop must be dismantled to test another battery. With an AASP, this is not even possible these days since if the battery is not needed, the AASP is no longer able to return the unused diagnostic part to Apple for a refund anymore. I can tell you from personal experience supporting thousands of our organization's Apple laptops....they are no longer easy to diagnose, nor is it easy to be certain the suspect part will be the one.


So please go easy on your AASP....they are replacing the most logical parts assuming they have looked for signs of accidental liquid damage. I always do so since so many of our organization's users tend to have accidents, but even when I check I can miss a sign especially if I do not remove the Logic Board to examine its hidden side which is exposed to the underside of the Keyboard and prone to liquids (even just a drop) from leaking through from the keys.


Just make sure to keep going back as soon as you see a problem so that if they need to replace the same part again, it will be covered by the 90 day part warranty.


Good luck.


Sep 3, 2023 12:27 PM in response to a_c_47_

That's not a determination this community can diagnose.


If you've had two Apple certified shops, and they were actually "Apple Certified" shops, attempt two failed repairs I'd say you've had an incredible run of "bad luck". Honestly, I can't imagine two Apple certified shops blowing the repairs this badly.


My suggestion is you get it to an actual Apple Store. Either make an appointment at one or ship it to Apple: How to send your Mac to Apple for service - Apple Support


Sep 3, 2023 12:35 PM in response to ku4hx

Both places were definitely "Apple Certified"; I was able to call Apple and get the repairs covered since the warranty just expired, which couldn't have been done if they weren't authorized. I have no idea how both places managed to fail. But yeah I'll take it to an Apple Store as soon as I can. Thanks for the quick response.

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MacBook Pro power problem despite multiple repairs

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