My Problem
I spilled coffee on the trackpad and keyboard
My Fix
I used the guide for replacing a top case in order to take apart the computer. Based off of advice I read, I cleaned the parts with 91% isopropyl alcohol. The keyboard cable was crusted in coffee, as was the entire trackpad. I cleaned these off with the alcohol and a baby toothbrush. After putting it back together, the keyboard worked perfectly, but the trackpad was still wonky (wouldn't click and cursor jumped around). I ordered a new trackpad from the ifixit store and used the guide to replace it, and now the computer works perfectly!!
Apple quoted me $755 to "fix" my computer. I did it myself for about $130.
My Advice
The process of taking the Macbook Air apart was a lot easier than I thought it would be. It was just a bit time-consuming. Definitely use the pentalobe screwdriver- I stripped some screws because I was overeager while waiting for my screwdriver to come in the mail, and had to go to a computer repair store to get them back out to replace the trackpad (they were super nice and didn't charge me anything for removing the screws).
Be careful not to over-tighten the screws that keep the battery in place. I cracked the plastic a bit this way.
One Comment
I needed to use a T6 on step 10 instead of a T5 screwdriver.
David Cantu - Reply