Swollen “Vintage” 2007-2009 MacBook

There are sources for replacement and upgrade parts online, from several reputable businesses.

Most have free instruction (such as owc videos) and support. Mac-centric vendors are good for

restoring older models that aren't the superstars they once were, to some former glory.

A few years are like decades between model numbers. Use serial number lookup site such as

https://www.powerbookmedic.com/identify-mac-serial.php to identify your build model year.

owc macsales has examples of several version MagSafe power adapters on their site; & batteries,

memory chips, storage/optical drive MY UPGRADES replacement, etc. ~ And iFixit's online repair

guides to consider should you be of mind to try DIY; or maybe just have a look inside via pictures.

Ten years makes many of our older Macs near antique, if not almost obsolete compared to 2018..!

In any event, see what is available and consider learning about how these function.

Good luck & happy computing! 🙂

Lanny wrote:

The battery should have been removed on the first signs that it was failing. Allowing it to swell will most likely cause signiifcant damage to other components.

I've got one myself and had it replaced as a "service replacement" for swelling while they still had them. The A1185 battery is in a case where the swelling just goes out. Everything is self-contained in a tray, and once it starts swelling it pushes out the polycarbonate bottom plate and doesn't do anything to the inside of the MacBook. You can see how it pushed out the polycarbonate plate here (this one is from Apple's matte black MacBook days but otherwise the same):

Quick fixes for a swollen/bulging Macbook battery - YouTube

It's pretty easy to get a new aftermarket one. The biggest issue with a swelling battery for these models isn't that it's going to damage any internal components by the mechanical swelling, but that it might explode or catch on fire.

OK - just to clarify, what computer do you have. At the very least, what does it day for "Model No." on the bottom? I've been assuming that you meant it was a model that took the A1185 battery, but if it's not then which particular model?

Given the links to more information, one need only find the serial number on the case,

then visit PBMedic's serial number lookup page (where there's also a parts page, too)

& see the original configuration, build date, month (early, mid, late year) & hardware

specifications. ~ Plus several misc identification numbers, useful to locate new parts.

Identify your MacBook - Apple Support

Learn how to find the serial number and other information that can help you

identify your MacBook. ... 2010. MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010) ...

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201608

Lookup Mac Specs By Serial Number, Order ... - EveryMac.com

EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Lookup - lookup Apple Mac, iPod, iPhone and iPad specs

by serial number, order number, model number, model ID, EMC number and more.

https://everymac.com/ultimate-mac-lookup/

In any event...

Good luck & happy trails! 🙂

edited

The battery should have been removed on the first signs that it was failing. Allowing it to swell will most likely cause signiifcant damage to other components.

K Shaffer wrote:

There are sources for replacement and upgrade parts online, from several reputable businesses.

Most have free instruction (such as owc videos) and support. Mac-centric vendors are good for

restoring older models that aren't the superstars they once were, to some former glory.

The OP hasn't clarified exactly what model is being discussed. "2007-2009" and just "MacBook" is kind of inadequate. I was thinking maybe the A1185 battery, which is ridiculously easy to replace. However, the A1331 battery on the Unibody is pretty easy to find and install. I'm not quite sure why the OP is so upset. Even if Apple no longer sells the battery or doesn't service it, there are plenty of working aftermarket options.