jellybean4444

Q: Anyone know how to reinstall a key on keyboard?

Does anyone have experience reinstalling a key onto the keyboard with the new Macbook? When I try to reinstall it there is no spring effect to it. There must be a method to install it correctly but I can't figure it out. No parts appear to be broken on the butterfly mechanism.

 

Thanks

MacBook, OS X El Capitan (10.11.1), null

Posted on Nov 17, 2015 6:04 AM

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Q: Anyone know how to reinstall a key on keyboard?

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  • by Brett L,

    Brett L Brett L Nov 18, 2015 11:29 AM in response to jellybean4444
    Community Specialists
    Nov 18, 2015 11:29 AM in response to jellybean4444

    Good day jellybean4444,

     

    Based on your description of your MacBook's keyboard, it appears your MacBook needs to be serviced. The following link should help you get started with the process and has links with additional information on topics such as warranty and service pricing.

     

    Thanks for using Apple Support Communities.

     

    Safe computing.

  • by K Shaffer,

    K Shaffer K Shaffer Nov 18, 2015 8:42 PM in response to Brett L
    Level 6 (14,274 points)
    Desktops
    Nov 18, 2015 8:42 PM in response to Brett L

    The 'missing link' wouldn't happen to be one like this, where the

    user can login or be logged in to any Apple page and view their

    registered &/or purchased Apple products -- or, better links?

     

    https://getsupport.apple.com/

     

    • About your support coverage and service options - Apple Support

     

    Was just reading through and noticed a small detail went missing.

  • by jellybean4444,

    jellybean4444 jellybean4444 Nov 18, 2015 11:45 PM in response to jellybean4444
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Nov 18, 2015 11:45 PM in response to jellybean4444

    Typically installing a key back onto the keyboard is a simple task without the need for sending it to a service center. I'm assuming that i'm obviously sticking the key back on incorrectly. Are either of you familiar with this keyboard on the new Macbook? There is lots of youtube videos on doing this task but not for the new butterfly keys.

  • by K Shaffer,

    K Shaffer K Shaffer Nov 19, 2015 3:30 AM in response to jellybean4444
    Level 6 (14,274 points)
    Desktops
    Nov 19, 2015 3:30 AM in response to jellybean4444

    There are a few ways to look into this, one: study an online repair guide such as iFixit provides...

     

    While they also have a teardown or takeapart, that is only for reference & would void warranty.

    The same link below includes another, to their 'teardown' views; in addition to repair sections.

     

    • Retina MacBook 2015 Repair guide - iFixit.com:

    https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Retina_MacBook_2015

     

    Screen Shot 2015-11-19 at 2.26.06 AM.png

    {above image from linked original page below}

     

    • Retina MacBook 2015 Keyboard Key Replacement - iFixit:

    https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Retina+MacBook+2015+Keyboard+Key+Replacement/44038

     

    Hopefully this is somewhat helpful, unless some part is actually broken and in which case

    the computer should be returned for inspection (to see if accidental or defective) at Apple.

     

    Good luck & happy computing!

  • by jellybean4444,

    jellybean4444 jellybean4444 Nov 19, 2015 7:33 AM in response to K Shaffer
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Nov 19, 2015 7:33 AM in response to K Shaffer

    I had found this article in the past. But I already have the key removed it was due to a spill. So referring to my original post I'm trying to stick the key back on, not remove it which that article doesn't mention. I due appreciate your response.

  • by K Shaffer,

    K Shaffer K Shaffer Nov 19, 2015 1:23 PM in response to jellybean4444
    Level 6 (14,274 points)
    Desktops
    Nov 19, 2015 1:23 PM in response to jellybean4444

    Both the linked iFixit guide and their other tear-down report suggest to replace the key-top

    you'd reverse the process. This is why I suggest you find an authorized Apple service; or

    an Apple Store with Genius bar (get appointment) if available, as their help is often free.

     

    If no genius at official Apple Store, the other option is to have the unit inspected by the

    specialist or independent authorized Apple service provider. If there is a defect, it may be

    repaired under the warranty or AppleCare.

     

    And if some tiny part that gently snaps into the hinged section from the top piece is broke

    then one or the other may require a replacement. At some point, maybe entire keyboard?

     

    • Retina MacBook 2015 Keyboard Key Butterfly Mechanism Replacement - iFixit:

    https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Retina+MacBook+2015+Keyboard+Key+Butterfly+Mechanis m+Replacement/44040

     

    "To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order." -- see comments.

     

    Perhaps a replacement key reseller may have some ideas about the Spacebar key parts

    & how to remove-install their part successfully? This link shows just the small keys + video:

    http://www.replacementlaptopkeys.com/apple-12-macbook-keyboard-keys-replacement- butterfly-2015-1/

     

    Since the computer is relatively new, and shipped in the first quarter of 2015, less is known

    outside of the official channels or through independent investigation or repair attempts.

     

    While this ASC has been suggested to be a technical forum, there are times when it isn't.

    So that's when the advice is, to try & find an Apple specialist or an official Apple genius.

     

    Sorry to not be of much help... best of luck in this matter.

    Perhaps someone else may see your thread & offer ideas...!

  • by K Shaffer,

    K Shaffer K Shaffer Nov 20, 2015 1:53 AM in response to K Shaffer
    Level 6 (14,274 points)
    Desktops
    Nov 20, 2015 1:53 AM in response to K Shaffer

    PS to the above:

     

    Regarding the Space Bar, the part is listed on replacement keys site above; for $21.95

    and from the list of keys. Once clicked on, a long menu of all keys appear; you can add

    items to a cart. You may have somehow caused damage to the original Space Bar parts.

     

    This kit, for each single key, has all the parts you could replace to restore a single one.

     

    • Laptop Key Replacement Kit

    (Includes key Cap, Hinge Clip, and Cup. All The Parts Needed To Repair Your Keyboard Key.)

    http://www.replacementlaptopkeys.com/apple-12-macbook-keyboard-keys-replacement- butterfly-2015-1/

     

     

    Screen Shot 2015-11-20 at 12.36.37 AM.png

    • Free Video Installation Guide - replacementlaptopkeys.com -- note: This does not show your model.

    However you may attempt to contact the vendor and inquire if they do offer Space Bar install instructions.

     

    This kit for a single Space Bar key repair may be all that item needs; however liquid damages may be

    evident at a later time and should the unit go into an authorized repair, any moisture may have triggered

    the sensors that are passive by design, so other failure may be more costly. -- Do you have renter or

    home owner insurance, on electronic items you own? Some may cover accidental damage such as this.

     

    Just happened to be re-viewing a few topics here along with some newer ones, & thought to add the above.

    Hopefully you can restore at least those functions you are immediately trying to fix; good luck in any event.