Along with the release of macOS Big Sur 11.2.1 yesterday, Apple also launched a new battery replacement program for MacBook Pro 2016 and 2017 users. Apple says the new program is valid for users who have MacBook Pro models that “had a problem with the battery not charging more than 1%”.
The MacBook Pro battery problem
In a support document, Apple says that a small number of MacBook Pro models from 2016 and 2017 are suffering from an issue where the battery doesn’t charge more than 1%.
A very small number of customers with MacBook Pro computers from 2016 and 2017 had a problem with the battery not charging beyond 1%. The battery health status on these devices will also indicate “Recommended service”. If the status indicates that your battery is Normal, it is not affected by this problem.
MacOS Big Sur 11.2.1, which was released to the public yesterday, also includes a fix to prevent this problem from happening with other MacBook Pro computers in 2016 and 2017. This means that macOS Big Sur 11.2.1 will not fix the problem for MacBook Pro users who are already experiencing it, but you should prevent this from happening to additional users.
Eligible MacBook Pro models
Typically, when Apple launches a new pair or service program, it creates a tool that allows users to connect their serial number to verify that they are eligible for the program. This is not the case this time, with Apple just saying that a “very small number” of users is affected.
To find out which MacBook Pro model you have, click on the Apple logo in the upper left corner of the macOS menu bar and choose “About this Mac”. Next, look for your MacBook Pro description. Apple states that the following 2016 and 2017 MacBook Pro models are eligible for free battery replacement:
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, two Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, two Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, four 3-port Thunderbolt)
- MacBook Pro (13 inch, 2017, four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (15 inch, 2016)
- MacBook Pro (15 inch, 2017)
You can also check the health of your battery by going to System Preferences, clicking on Battery, selecting Battery in the sidebar, and then clicking on Battery Health. On macOS Catalina or earlier, hold the Option key and click the battery icon in the menu bar to reveal the battery status menu.
Apple says that affected users should see a “Recommended Service” message in the Battery Health menu. The company will examine all computers “before service to see if they qualify for a free battery replacement”.
Apple usually charges $ 199 for replacing the battery in the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pro models, but users experiencing this problem can have their battery replaced free of charge. Apple advises users to contact Apple support to replace the battery free of charge.
Are you experiencing this issue on your MacBook Pro 2016 or 2017? Do you plan to have your battery replaced free of charge by Apple? Let us know in the comments.
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