How to Replace a MacBook Air Battery | PCMacgicians London
Battery problems are significant impediments to productivity. Whether you are a student working late into the night or a business owner managing client communications while on the move, a failing battery can disrupt your entire workflow.
Recently, a client approached PC Macgicians regarding their MacBook Air A1932 (EMC 3184), expressing concerns about its inadequate battery performance. The battery not only drained rapidly but also exhibited random shutdowns, failed to charge correctly, and occasionally displayed the alarming ‘Service Recommended’ notification. They required a prompt and dependable solution, which we provided by installing a new A1965 battery.
In this case study, we will outline the steps we took, the importance of these actions, and how you can undertake a battery replacement yourself if you are inclined towards a bit of DIY.
The Problem: MacBook Wouldn’t Hold a Charge
The client had been using their MacBook Air A1932 for a few years. While everything else ran fine, the battery health had dropped below 75%, and the system would shut off without warning—even at 30% charge.
We confirmed the issue using macOS’s built-in System Information → Power tab, where the battery cycle count was nearing 1000 (the upper limit Apple recommends).
So we ordered the exact replacement part—Battery Model A1965—and got to work.
Step-by-Step: Replacing the Battery in a MacBook Air A1932
For those who enjoy do-it-yourself projects or are simply interested in understanding the intricacies of MacBook battery replacements, this comprehensive guide outlines the procedure involved.
Please note that while this task is not overly complex, it does necessitate careful handling. If you lack confidence in your abilities, it is advisable to entrust the work to professionals, such as our team at PCMacgicians.
Tools You’ll Need:
Pentalobe screwdriver (to open the case)
T5 Torx screwdriver (to remove the battery)
Plastic spudger (to safely disconnect connectors)
Tweezers (for speaker/trackpad cables)
New A1965 battery (OEM or high-quality replacement)
1. Power Down & Unplug Everything
Shut down the MacBook completely.
Unplug the charger and any USB devices.
Place the laptop on a clean, static-free surface.
2. Remove the Back Cover
Use a Pentalobe screwdriver to remove the 10 screws on the underside.
Gently pry open the case and set it aside.
3. Disconnect the Battery
Find the battery connector on the logic board.
Use a plastic spudger to lift and disconnect the battery safely.
4. Remove the Speakers (If Needed)
On some models, the speakers and trackpad cables block access to the battery.
Use tweezers to disconnect speaker wires and gently lift them out of place.
5. Remove the Battery
Unscrew the battery using a T5 Torx driver.
Carefully pull the adhesive tabs (if present).
Lift the battery out slowly, avoiding stress on any nearby flex cables.
6. Install the New Battery
Position the new A1965 battery into place.
Reconnect the battery cable to the logic board.
Secure the battery using the original screws.
7. Reassemble Your MacBook
Reinstall the speakers and trackpad (if removed).
Place the bottom case back and re-tighten the Pentalobe screws.
8. Power On & Test
Boot up the MacBook.
Check System Information > Power for battery cycle count and health.
Plug in the charger and ensure it’s charging properly.
The Result: Full Power, Fresh Start
The customer was back up and running in under an hour, and the difference was instantly noticeable.
Battery life improved from 45 minutes to over 7 hours
No more random shutdowns
Charging was quick and stable
They left with a fully refreshed MacBook Air A1932, ready for another few years of reliable use.
Why Battery Health Matters
If your battery’s giving you grief, it’s more than just an inconvenience. A dying battery can:
Crash your Mac mid-task (risking data loss)
Cause performance throttling
Lead to charger dependency
Eventually prevent the laptop from powering on
We recommend replacing your MacBook battery once it dips below 80% health or nears 800–1000 cycles.
When to Call PcMacgicians
If you’re not comfortable digging into the internals of your MacBook—or if something goes wrong—we’re here to help.
We offer:
Professional MacBook battery replacements
Genuine A1965 battery installation for MacBook Air A1932
Diagnostics if your Mac won’t charge or dies suddenly
Apple laptop repair London-wide (including Clapham, Roehampton, Wimbledon, and beyond)
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re dealing with a Mac that dies on 20% or one that refuses to charge at all, a battery replacement is often a simple and affordable fix.
So don’t keep living near a charger—let us give your Mac a fresh lease on life.
- Visit our shop in London
- Book a same-day MacBook battery replacement
- Or message us for a free consultation