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Released in November 2020, the 13" MacBook Pro features Apple's Arm-based M1 SoC with both an 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU. (Model A2338 / EMC 3578 with two Thunderbolt 3 ports)

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Keyboard malfunction, is replacing top case only solution?

Hi all,

A few keys of mine have stopped working simultaneously - CTRL, OPTION, and the right SHIFT keys (the left SHIFT does, however work). Also, while the Caps Lock does work, the light never illuminates.

Word from Apple is this would require a full top-case replacement. I did find it interesting, though, that when they hooked up an external keyboard to attempt to run it in a diagnostic mode using one of the malfunctioning keys, this didn't work as well.

I bought this model last year after the other Mac I had bought also malfunctioned within a year. So, while I could absolutely live with this keyboard malfunction without shelling out $500 for a top case replacement via Apple... on principal, this just makes me regret using them at all. Any insights?

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The keyboard is riveted in on the Retina series. While you can TECHNICALLY replace the keyboard, you need to drill the rivets out and replace them with screws. Oh, and if you miss ONE then it will never feel right.

It’s not a process for beginners, and I personally consider the keyboard “non-serviceable” because if you get it wrong it literally does. IF YOU GET THE PROCESS WRONG THERE IS NO QUICK FIX - THAT PALMREST IS DONE.

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