2015 MacBook Pro 15 Battery Not Charging? DIY Battery Replacement Guide
How-FixIT · 4K views · 11:30
Skill Level
IntermediateTime Required
Half dayEstimated Cost
$50–200Equipment
Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch A1398 (2015)Tools Needed
Screwdriver Set, Opening Tool Set, Magnetic Mat, Tweezers, 90% Isopropyl AlcoholReplace a 2015 MacBook Pro 15-inch (A1398) battery safely—remove glued cells with 90% isopropyl alcohol, install the new pack, calibrate, and reset SMC.
Buy tools & battery on AMAZON:
Screwdriver Set: https://hfixt.com/spro
Opening Tool Set: https://hfixt.com/pryt
Magnetic Mat: https://hfixt.com/mat
Tweezers: https://hfixt.com/tzrs
Battery link-1: https://amzn.to/49hA3FV
Battery link-2: https://amzn.to/4pFf59L
Applicator Syringe: https://amzn.to/3YD9iWg
AliExpress:
Screwdriver Set: https://hfixt.com/alis
Opening Tool Kit: https://hfixt.com/alit
Magnetic Mat: https://hfixt.com/amat
Tweezers set: https://hfixt.com/altz
Battery link-1: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2xaRppP
Battery link-2: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3iWtTaZ
Applicator Syringe: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3Z3A36h
📌*Useful links*
2TB SSD in MacBook Pro 2015: https://youtu.be/7XoUf7jBsLI
Best Screwdriver Set: https://youtu.be/fdtNem4rDDM
Repair Tools & Safety Tips: https://youtu.be/Sp7PhrKV-vQ
More DIY repair guides: https://how-fixit.com
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*Description*
If your 2015 MacBook Pro 15-inch battery is not charging, shows poor health, or the cells are swollen, this step-by-step guide walks you through a safe replacement. You’ll learn how to open the MacBook, disconnect the battery, remove the glued-in battery cells using 90%+ isopropyl alcohol, and avoid damaging the trackpad/logic board while lifting stubborn center cells.
After removal, we clean leftover adhesive so the new battery bonds properly, install the replacement pack (pre-applied adhesive or double-sided tape), then reassemble and reconnect everything for first boot.
We also cover new battery calibration to improve percentage accuracy and how to reset the SMC if you notice unusual power or charging behavior after the replacement.
Tools used: Torx T5, Pentalobe 1.2mm, spudgers/spatulas, tweezers, 90%+ IPA, anti-static brush.
🎬 Timecodes (chapters)
0:00 Symptoms: not charging, poor health, swollen cells
0:19 Tools & materials (T5, Pentalobe, IPA 90%+)
0:42 Remove bottom cover screws
1:00 Disconnect battery connector (safety step)
1:14 Trackpad cable cover + locking tab
1:59 Remove battery board screws
2:06 Peeling off the battery
2:18 Blunt needle warning
2:27 Lift outer cells (slow pry, re-apply IPA)
4:42 Center cells: strongest adhesive + trackpad caution
6:17 Remove battery + clean adhesive thoroughly
7:31 Install new battery (adhesive/tape placement)
7:59 Reconnect battery + reassemble bottom cover
9:54 First boot + plug in charger if needed
10:05 Battery calibration steps (100% → drain → recharge)
10:22 Reset SMC (charging/power issues after repair)
10:51 Wrap-up + SSD upgrade mention
🌟FAQ
❓Question: What model is this battery replacement for?
✔️Answer: The MacBook Pro 15-inch (2015), commonly referenced as A1398.
❓Question: Do I really need 90%+ isopropyl alcohol?
✔️Answer: Yes—higher concentration evaporates cleaner and helps weaken adhesive more effectively.
❓Question: Can I use a metal tool to pry the battery?
✔️Answer: Avoid sharp tools. Use non-sharp plastic tools; metal can slip and puncture a cell or short components.
❓Question: What should I do after installing the new battery?
✔️Answer: Do a full calibration cycle so the percentage reading becomes accurate.
❓Question: My MacBook still behaves weird after the swap—what now?
✔️Answer: Perform an SMC reset to address uncommon power/thermal/charging behavior.
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