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Model A1286. Released February 2011 / 2.0, 2.2, or 2.3 GHz Quad-core Intel Core i7 Processor

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What is this piece and could it be affecting my trackpad?

So, I started having some trouble with my trackpad; cursor entirely uncontrollable EXCEPT for when I exerted slight pressure on the case right around the trackpad while using it.

I thought this was weird, so I opened up the case and discovered that this little black piece had cracked right down the middle and become two pieces. Went ahead and took it out and so far the trackpad is working just fine.

Picture of the piece here, highlighted by a green box.

So what's the deal? Does anyone know what this thing is or if it's even possible to hunt down a replacement? I've had zero luck finding it (besides, you know, as part of an entire bottom case assembly) and don't know what its actual function is. Is it actually feasible that its breaking could have affected trackpad function?

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I believe it is one of two clips securing the bottom to the upper case… it is very close to the trackpad connector. Since it's cracked it may move with the pressure or flexing of the frame bottom or frame and press against the trackpad connector causing your problem.

This should probably be replaced as over time it might move or break further causing damage to the trackpad ribbon cable.

If this answer is acceptable please remember to return and mark it.

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Awesome, thanks so much! Now I have a better idea of what to look for. Having a difficult time finding a replacement, though. Has anybody had to look for this before? Not sure the best place to hunt it down.

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That's a pretty new box, but you might find a "for repair only" machine off e-bay reasonably priced so you can snag that part and probably a lot of others too (or just resell it and say you needed that part and its' gone).

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Oh yeeaah, reselling it would be pretty clever. And probably ultimately cheaper than buying a tiny piece of plastic that doesn't actually seem to be individually sold by any online parts vender. Thanks so much for your help!

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