A client recently came to PcMacgicians with a non-booting MacBook Pro A1708 (EMC 3164). The machine had been dropped, leaving behind a string of problems: unresponsive trackpad, failing SSD, and a logic board that had seen better days.

Rather than scrap the system, the customer asked if we could salvage it by replacing all three major components — the motherboard, SSD, and trackpad — and recover their files in the process.

Why Replace, Not Repair?

The customer weighed their options. While buying a new Mac was tempting, budget constraints and the urgency to recover work files made repair the better choice. They opted for replacement parts that were a mix of new and refurbished, balancing cost with reliability.

Parts Used

• Motherboard (Logic Board) – Refurbished A1708-compatible board with 2.3GHz i5 CPU. Affordable, reliable, and nearly identical to the original

• SSD (256GB NVMe) – Used Apple OEM SSD. Budget-conscious decision with enough space for basic tasks and a full OS install

• Trackpad – New aftermarket trackpad for A1708. Original was cracked; OEM was pricey, but the aftermarket option performed well in previous repairs

Tools Needed

1. Pentalobe screwdriver (for opening the MacBook case)
2. T5 and T4 Torx screwdrivers (for internal screws)
3. Plastic spudger (for disconnecting cables safely)
4. Tweezers (for handling small components)
5. Suction cup (for lifting the bottom cover)
6. New replacement motherboard, SSD, and trackpad

How to Fix It

1. Getting Started

After powering the device down, we opened it up using precision tools. Ten pentalobe screws later, the bottom case was off.

2. Battery First

We disconnected the battery before touching anything else to avoid damage to sensitive components.

3. SSD Removal for Data Recovery

The original SSD was extracted carefully and later connected to an NVMe-to-USB adapter. The good news? It still worked, and we were able to pull all user data.

4. Out with the Old, In with the New

We methodically removed the trackpad and logic board, keeping screws and connectors labeled throughout. The replacements fit like a glove, and all internal cables were reconnected with care.

5. Boot and OS Install

With the new parts in place, the system booted into recovery using a macOS Ventura bootable USB. We erased the new SSD using Disk Utility and installed a fresh macOS.

Migration & Testing

Data Migration

Using the recovered SSD connected externally, we launched Migration Assistant and transferred the customer’s files, apps, and user accounts.

Final Tests

• Trackpad: Fully responsive with Force Touch

• SSD: Verified using Disk Utility (no errors, solid read/write)

• Motherboard: Passed Apple Diagnostics with no faults

The Outcome

In under three hours, the MacBook was back in working condition with all files restored — a huge win considering the original issues. The customer was relieved not only to have their machine revived, but also to have avoided the high cost of buying a new MacBook.

Whether it’s data recovery, a full teardown, or a single component replacement — PCMacgicians is here to help. We balance quality, cost, and urgency to find the best solution for your specific needs.