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Released October 24, 2011 / 2.2, 2.4, or 2.5 GHz Quad-core Intel Core i7 Processor

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Water damage, based on evidence, does logic board need replacing?

At the weekend I was caught out in a rainstorm and my backpack containing my MBP receiving a good drenching.

When I got home and checked the macbook, it was unresponsive and the battery indicator lights were stuck on. I made the amateur mistake of plugging it in, and predictably after that not even the indicator lights worked.

Upon opening the back up, I could see a few drops of water near the battery and HDD, but otherwise water penetration didn't appear extensive. I didn't have the screwdrivers to investigate further at the time so I left it to dry out for a few days.

Tonight I finally lifted the logic board out to see what what was wrong. Two liquid immersion indicators near the trackpad are red, and on the underside of the logic board a component next to the RAM slot appears scorched. I strongly suspect this is the culprit. Nothing else looks to be amiss.

Based on the pics I've linked to below, would it be safe to assume that I need to replace (hopefully only) the logic board? I'm confident about replacing parts myself, but not so confident about my diagnostic skills. I'd appreciate another opinion before shelling out for a new logic board.

Cheers,

Theo

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Theo, it is never safe to assume anything:-). since you do not have anything to lose, I suggest you clean your logic board with 90%+ isopropyl alcohol and a soft brush. Yes, you can submerge the board in the alcohol. Use a soft brush to remove the corrosion. You may consider posting a picture of your completely board so we can see more of that. While you clean your board, check all the components for any visible damage. Once cleaned, and you are reasonably sure the components are okay, replace the battery and see what you get. Hope this helps, good luck.

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Thanks very much for the advice. I scrubbed at the residue on the component with isopropyl alcohol and replaced the logic board. Surprisingly everything worked as normal after that. I'm not sure if it was what I did or if it just needed longer to dry out, but I'm relieved and happy either way.

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Theo will be eternally grateful.
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