Sticky Keys, Dead Keys, Butterfly Mechanism Failure? We Replace MacBook Keyboards Properly.
All MacBook Pro and MacBook Air keyboards including notorious 2016-2019 butterfly-mechanism models. Top-case replacement (keyboard + battery + trackpad as Apple’s design requires). 30-day warranty.
Free Diagnosis
You see the quote first. Pay only if we fix it.
90-Day Warranty
Same fault returns? We re-fix it free.
24–72 Hr Turnaround
Most chip-level repairs done within 3 days.
Doorstep Service
We come to you. All Pune zones.
The 2016-2019 MacBook Pro Butterfly Keyboard Problem
Apple’s ‘butterfly mechanism’ keyboards (used in MacBook Pro 2016-2019, MacBook 12" 2015-2017, MacBook Air 2018-2019) had a known design defect: tiny dust particles or debris could disable individual keys permanently. The mechanism was so thin it had no tolerance for any contamination.
Apple ran an extended Keyboard Service Program offering free repair for affected models — but this program ended in 2024 for most models. If you have one of these MacBooks today with keyboard issues, you typically need paid replacement.
MacLab solution: we replace at significantly lower cost than Apple’s out-of-warranty rate, using third-generation butterfly mechanism (slightly improved) or newer Magic Keyboard mechanism for some models.
When Your Keyboard Needs Replacement
Sticky keys
Keys that stick down or feel mushy
Dead keys
Single or multiple keys not registering
Repeating keys
Single press registers as multiple
Loose / wobbly keys
Keycap detached or unstable
Backlight failure
Keys not lit, or only some lit
Liquid damage
Keys affected after spill
Butterfly mechanism failure
Characteristic on 2016-2019 MacBook Pro
Touch ID / Touch Bar issues
Often part of same top-case
Our Keyboard Replacement Process
Free Diagnosis
Confirm keyboard issue (vs software, vs liquid). Identify affected keys. Test other top-case components. Determine top-case vs single-key feasibility.
Quote
Written quote with all options.
Lab Replacement (4-6 hr)
Complete disassembly (top-case removal requires removing display, motherboard, all internal components). Internal components transferred. Reassembly with proper torque. Cable management for trackpad and battery.
Testing + Return
Every key tested individually. Trackpad full functional test. Battery health verification. Touch Bar / Touch ID test. WiFi antenna re-verification. Doorstep delivery free.
Keyboard / Top-Case Replacement Pricing
| Model | MacLab Cost | Apple AASP Cost |
|---|---|---|
| MacBook Pro 13″/15″ Pre-2016 (separate keyboard) | ₹6,500-9,500 | ₹14,000-18,000 |
| MacBook Pro 13″ 2016-2019 (Touch Bar, top-case) | ₹18,000-24,000 | ₹35,000-45,000 |
| MacBook Pro 15″ 2016-2019 (Touch Bar, top-case) | ₹22,000-28,000 | ₹40,000-50,000 |
| MacBook Pro 13″ 2020 (Magic Keyboard, top-case) | ₹16,000-22,000 | ₹32,000-40,000 |
| MacBook Pro 14″/16″ (2021+, Magic, M-series) | ₹24,000-32,000 | ₹45,000-55,000 |
| MacBook Air 13″ Pre-2018 | ₹6,500-9,500 | ₹14,000-18,000 |
| MacBook Air Retina 13″ (2018-2020) | ₹15,000-20,000 | ₹28,000-35,000 |
| MacBook Air M1/M2 13″/15″ | ₹18,000-24,000 | ₹32,000-42,000 |
Top-case replacement also replaces battery (90-day warranty extends), trackpad, speakers — significant value beyond keyboard alone.
Keyboard Replacement FAQ
Is single-key replacement really not possible on butterfly keyboards?
Will the new keyboard be the improved version?
How long does keyboard replacement take?
Will my Touch Bar still work after replacement?
My keyboard backlight is dead but keys work — same fix?
Get Your Keyboard Diagnosed Free
Doorstep or in-lab. Free assessment of which approach makes economic sense.