If my 12" MacBook battery needs to be replaced, do the keyboard and top case need to be replaced as well?

Hi,

In this case, it's the bottom case that is replaced with the battery adhered to it. See this teardown from ifixit.com: https://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/Retina+MacBook+2015+Teardown/39841

and the part itself from powerbookmedic.com: http://www.powerbookmedic.com/MacBook-12-Retina-Bottom-Case-w--Battery-Space-Gra y-p-84092.html

The battery is also available separately, but it is very difficult to remove/replace, which is why Apple and AASP's replace the entire bottom case assembly and the battery all in one: http://www.powerbookmedic.com/MacBook-12-Retina-Battery-Early-2015-A1527-p-99841 .html

The 2015 model MacBook Retina repair guide shows

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

sections; batteries appear to be secured to bottom part.

The 'lower case assembly' is where the battery lives...

or in your incidence, after a replacement may hope to.

https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Retina+MacBook+2015+Lower+Case+Assembly+Replacement /44155

There are several steps in the above which do not apply

to the battery replacement; since the topic is Lower Case

replacement. About topic #9 shows battery retainer clip.

They suggest the task is Moderately Difficult, with correct

tools and some know-how; and parts. ~ If the MacBook is

still under an AppleCare extended plan, ask Store genius.

Good luck & happy computing! 🙂

Nope!

They just remove the bottom plate and the battery is right there.