Apple Announces ‘MacBook Bottom Case Replacement Program’

A bunch of troublesome White MacBooks shipped between October 2009 and April 2011 have prompted Cupertino, California-based Apple to grant owners a free replacement of their computer’s bottom case, which also includes a do-it-yourself kit.

The company states on its Support site that “Apple has determined that under certain circumstances the rubber surface on some MacBooks may separate from the bottom case of the system.”

Apple says only MacBooks shipped between October 2009 and April 2011 may experience this issue; therefore, customers who don’t fall under the timeline are not eligible for a replacement.

“Apple will replace the bottom case of any affected MacBook, free of charge, that exhibits the issue,” the company confirms.

The tech giant says customers have three options to choose from in order to get a replacement bottom case for their MacBook.


Assisted service
· Visit an Apple Retail Store - Set up an appointment with a Genius.
· Visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider - Find one here.

Self service
· Order a replacement bottom case kit online.
   -You will receive a kit that includes a new bottom case, screws, a Phillips head screwdriver, and instructions for how to remove the current bottom case and install the new one.
   -If you feel comfortable with the self-service option, you can place your order via the web.


Whatever method customers choose to have their hardware replaced, the laptop’s serial number will be checked to verify that it is eligible for this program.

Customers who know they own a different system than those eligible for the replacement should not attempt to order the parts from Apple.

Those who decided to take matters into their own hands and fix this issue at a repair shop can now contact Apple for a refund, the Cupertino tech giant said.

Apple specifically notes that the MacBook Bottom Case Replacement Program does not extend the standard warranty coverage of the affected MacBook, and that it only covers affected MacBooks for two years from their original purchase date.

The Mac maker pledges to further keep an eye out for any adjacent issues and extend its service accordingly.