fan Replacement

Left Fan Replacement Guide

Introduction:Follow this guide to install a new left fan (the left side when the device is positioned with the logic board facing you).

Step 1: Lower Case

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Take out the P5 pentalobe screws that are holding the lower case of the MacBook Pro in place:

Eight 3.0 mm

Two 2.3 mm

Step 2

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Starting from the side closest to the clutch cover, raise the lower case away from the MacBook Pro.

Place the lower case to the side.

Step 3: Battery Connector

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Remove the warning label that is covering the battery connector.

Step 4

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Gently use the flat end of a spudger to pry the battery connector straight up from its socket on the logic board.

Move the battery cables back and out of the way, taking care to ensure that the battery connector does not unintentionally touch the logic board.

Step 5: Left Fan

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Lift the rubber heat sink cover off the left fan using the flat end of a spudger.

Step 6

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Remove the following three screws securing the left fan to the logic board:

One 4.4 mm T5 Torx screw with 2 mm collar

One 5.0 mm T5 Torx screw with 2 mm collar

One 3.9 mm T5 Wide Head Torx screw

While reinstalling the fan and its screws, insert all the screws loosely at first without fully tightening them. This allows the fan to shift slightly and align correctly with the threaded standoffs before you fully tighten the screws.

Step 7

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Flip up the retaining flap on the left fan ribbon cable ZIF socket using the tip of a spudger.

Make sure you're lifting the hinged retaining flap, not the socket itself, when prying.

Beginning at the top of the cable, insert a plastic opening tool beneath the left fan cable to release it from the logic board.

Be careful when removing the cable, as it is firmly stuck to the logic board. If needed, use an iOpener or a hair dryer to heat the cable, softening the adhesive and making it easier to detach.

Remove the left fan by lifting it out of the device.

During fan reinstallation, it's more convenient to attach the fan ribbon cable as you set the fan in place, instead of after securing the three fan screws.