DIY Tutorial: Replace MacBook Pro 15 Optical Drive Cable Step-by-Step Guide

Duration: 45 minutes

Steps: 14 Steps

Hey there! Looks like things might need a little tweaking. No worries, you’ve got this! If you need help, you can always schedule a repair.

This little cable is the lifeline between your optical drive and the logic board. Let’s get them talking!

Step 1

– Put on your favorite tunes and gently nudge both battery release tabs in opposite directions to bid adieu to the battery. Lift the battery out of the computer with a smile.

Step 2

– Remove the three matching Phillips screws from the memory door.

– Make a note of where each set of screws came from. This’ll make re-assembly way easier!

Step 3

– Gently lift the memory door just enough to get a good grip, then give it a smooth slide toward you. Pull it clear off the casing with a little flair!

Step 4

– Unscrew the dynamic duo of Phillips screws chilling in the battery compartment near the latch.

Step 5

– Time to get your screwdriver ready! Let’s tackle those 6 screws and get this repair party started!

Step 6

– Unscrew the fabulous four Phillips screws chilling on the port side of the computer.

Step 7

– Twist your computer 90 degrees and unscrew the two Phillips screws hanging out at the back. Easy-peasy!

Step 8

– Twist your computer 90 degrees once more and unscrew the four Phillips screws on the computer’s side. Keep it groovy!

Step 9

Hold up, don’t just whip the upper case off like you’re unveiling a magic trick! It’s still tethered to the logic board with a ribbon cable. Let’s keep it smooth and gentle.

– Start by lifting the rear of the case and wiggle your fingers along the sides to loosen it. Keep going until the sides feel free. The front might be a bit stubborn, so a gentle rock back and forth could do the trick. Remember, there are four sneaky tabs over the DVD reader that need a straight pull upwards. This part can be a bit of a puzzle, so take your time!

– Watch out for the two tiny tabs on the front left of the upper case—they might get a little bent out of shape as you lift off the upper case. When putting it back together, give them a little tweak to tuck them back into the grooves of the lower case.

Step 10

– First up, gently disconnect the trackpad and keyboard ribbon cable from the logic board. Don’t forget to peel off any tape that might be holding it down!

– Next, it’s time to remove the upper case. You’ve got this!