MacBook Air Hard Drive Replacement

The Macbook Air is a solid laptop, combining a lightweight design with reliable features. Ever since the new solid state drive (SSD) replaced the original model’s hard drive in 2008, the Air is faster and more durable than ever before. Much like any laptop, however, MacBook Air models are still prone to internal failure. If you think your drive is damaged, don’t fret. We’ll cover everything you need to know about a MacBook Air hard drive replacement, below. 

Do you need a Macbook Air Hard Drive Replacement for Your Laptop?

Laptop hard drives can malfunction or become defective for many reasons. Typically, the odds of needing MacBook Air SSD replacement increase with prolonged laptop use. Look out for these common warning signs pointing to hard drive failure:

• Persistent, but irregular crashes 
• Continual cryptic error messages, especially when doing basic tasks, like moving files around
• Re-arranged, changed, or disappearing folder and file names
• Long wait times when opening files and folders
• Excessive overheating

How Much Does a MacBook Air Hard Drive Replacement Cost? 

Just like the MacBook Pro, repair costs for replacing a MacBook Air’s drive can vary quite a bit. Services charges will be based on whether your laptop has a hard drive (HDD) or an SSD, the type of upgrade you want, and your laptop’s model. Newer Air models, no older than the 2018 version, unfortunately, have their drives affixed inside the computer and cannot be individually replaced. Whether you choose to seek assistance from a local Apple Store or a certified professional, such as CPR, is entirely up to you. Just keep in mind that repair costs will likely fluctuate between each provider. You can typically expect charges to range anywhere from $200-$600. 

Ensure the SSD is Unrepairable

Before you take measures to replace your SSD, confirm that the drive is indeed broken and unfix-able. Start by running Disk Utility from Apple. If that doesn’t do the trick, try macOS Recovery. If you’re still left scratching your head, you can test some other repair methods out if you’re tech-savvy and have the time. At this point, however, we suggest turning to a professional or using your Apple device warranty, if it hasn’t expired. If you decide to replace the drive yourself, make sure you’re up for the challenge and follow the steps below. Also, keep in mind that changing internal hardware can void warranties on newer Mac models.

How to Replace a MacBook Air Hard Drive – DIY Guide

Follow CPR’s guided process step-by-step to get your MacBook Air’s drive replaced. 

Step 1: Backup Your Laptop

First, you’ll need to backup your laptop. We recommend using Apple’s Time Machine backup. This makes moving your laptop’s old SSD contents to the new drive much more manageable. However, you can use another backup program if you prefer.

Step 2: Get a Compatible SSD 

It’s essential to have a new and compatible SSD ready for your MacBook. Shop at a place that carries Apple gear and accessories, and make sure to jot down your MacBook make and model. You may also want to consider investing in an upgrade kit with an external drive enclosure for additional storage. 

Step 3: Power-Off Your MacBook Air

Now, you’ll need to power-off your laptop. To proceed, go to the Apple icon at the top left corner of your screen, and scroll down to ‘Shut Down.’ Once you click, you’ll be asked to confirm. Click ‘Shut Down’ once more to initiate. 

Step 4: Remove the Back End of your Laptop

To take off the back piece of your laptop, first, grab a Pentalobe screwdriver and a container to keep the screws in while you work. Then, remove the ten screws from the bottom of your Mac. 

Step 5: Take Out the Battery

Once you get all ten screws out, it’s time to disconnect the battery. Start by taking the bottom piece off slowly so you can get a clear inside view. The battery is located alongside the bottom. To remove, pull upwards on its electrical connector slowly, one edge at a time. 

Step 6: Remove the SSD

After the battery’s disengaged, you’re ready to take out the original SSD. You’ll find it positioned next to the battery. With your screwdriver, loosen the screws to lift the drive, and lightly pull horizontally to separate it from the connector. 

Step 7: Install the New SSD

Next, take your new SSD and slide it into the socket. When its firmly in place, re-attach the anchor screw, re-insert the battery, and attach the bottom panel back on your laptop. 

Step 8: Set Up your MacBook

Finally, you’ll need to re-boot your laptop. Your new SSD will be blank, so it needs to locate an operating system before using it. Depending on your preferences, there are a few techniques you can initiate. The easiest way involves using Apple’s Time Machine backup that we discussed in step one. This will transfer all your saved data to the new SSD. Once you restart your laptop, your macOS Utilities screen should pop up. From here, you’ll want to click, ‘Restore from Time Machine backup, and choose the latest backup. The backup can take up a while, depending on your internet speed and how much data needs to be transferred onto the new drive. 

Let Cell Phone Repair Upgrade your SSD

After the data has been restored to the drive, your laptop should be ready to use. To guarantee your MacBook’s drive is correctly replaced the first go around, consider contacting the experts at CPR Cell Phone Repair. Apart from MacBook Air models, our technicians are certified in fixing multiple Apple devices, ranging from MacBook Pros, iPhones, and iPads. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our repair service options.