DELETE key on Macbook Air 2019 -- after being cleaned -- cannot be snapped back into place.

I've seen this problem reported - but never resolved: I removed my DELETE key for cleaning with air. When I replaced it -- though it seems to work -- it doesn't stay in place and has not 'clicked' or snapped back down. So it floats and will fall off if I move my laptop around.


-- None of the plastic nibs have been damaged


-- the rubber central round key support is in place and undamaged


-- a thin veil of plastic (looks like human skin) and though disturbed, is still present



WHAT PART OF THE KEY ACTUALLY ATTACHES TO THE BOARD?

MacBook Air 11″, macOS 10.14

Posted on Apr 2, 2024 4:54 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 2, 2024 8:50 AM

If none of the nubs on the butterfly mechanism are damaged, then inspect the two plastic clips on the underside of the key cap. These will typically break off or become bent preventing the key cap from locking onto the butterfly mechanism. You can problem find replacement key caps online. Except for language & regional differences, I believe the key caps are all the same for them. Just make sure the replacement key cap is for your exact model.


Technically Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider should have access to key cap replacement kits, but from reading this forum I have yet to see any users post that an AASP replaced an individual key cap. Since Apple only provides full kits to an AASP, you would likely need to pay for the full kit containing each of the other key caps for every key on the keyboard.


FYI, I know that Apple changed the font & styling for some keys so a replacement key cap may have a slightly different look than the original. Sometimes I have seen differences in the color even though they are all black keys.

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 2, 2024 8:50 AM in response to RolandSal

If none of the nubs on the butterfly mechanism are damaged, then inspect the two plastic clips on the underside of the key cap. These will typically break off or become bent preventing the key cap from locking onto the butterfly mechanism. You can problem find replacement key caps online. Except for language & regional differences, I believe the key caps are all the same for them. Just make sure the replacement key cap is for your exact model.


Technically Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider should have access to key cap replacement kits, but from reading this forum I have yet to see any users post that an AASP replaced an individual key cap. Since Apple only provides full kits to an AASP, you would likely need to pay for the full kit containing each of the other key caps for every key on the keyboard.


FYI, I know that Apple changed the font & styling for some keys so a replacement key cap may have a slightly different look than the original. Sometimes I have seen differences in the color even though they are all black keys.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

DELETE key on Macbook Air 2019 -- after being cleaned -- cannot be snapped back into place.

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.