MacBook Pro 16" 2019 Speaker Replacement

Written By: Dave Hakkens

Comments: 6

MacBook Pro 16" 2019 Speaker Replacement

Difficulty

Moderate

Steps

Time Required

15 - 30 minutes

Introduction

My speakers made a cracking sound and it was driving me nuts. I hoped it was under warranty. I went to the Apple Store and they said no but could do a repair for €1037. I couldn’t find a single repair guide or video on replacing speakers on a Macbook 16”. It seems like a challenging job but I figured lets give it a try for the sake of helping others in the future.

Turns out it's not complex at all; I was done in 20 minutes. The only downside is that the speakers are glued in so the old speakers are likely to break. This also means the process is a bit more sketchy but totally worth it!

I hope this guide helps you :)

Step 1

First step is opening up the MacBook. This was the most challenging step and maybe because it got me by surprise. The process works a bit different then older MacBooks. Watch this video if you are not aware of the process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHutSzIk...
Hint - Try pulling the bottom cover forward.

Use this screwdriver Tournevis Pentalobe P5 pour MacBook Pro Retina et Air

Luca Doehling -

Step 2

After opening up, disconnect the battery. Remove the cable and take out the big screw; this is to make sure there is no power running through.

Use this screwdriver Tournevis Torx T5

Luca Doehling -

Step 3

I'm going to replace the left and right speaker. I bought a few on AliExpress, since they were sold out on iFixit, however they arrived damaged. Hopefully they work.

Step 4

On both sides, open up the connector and take out the cable.

Step 5

Taking out the speaker is where it gets sketchy. It's hanging in there with VERY strong adhesive. Luckily, I'm going to replace the speakers and am not going to keep them so I can be rough. If you want to keep the speaker, I would advise another approach.

This is great info. I'm going to try some heat on mine when I do it to try and soften the adhesive.

DeeGee -

Step 6

Same story on the other side. Wiggle your tool underneath and force it out.

Step 7

Removing the adhesive and pulling it out is easy. If you can't pull it out, use a tool to carefully scratch it off the surface.

Step 8

When cleaning the leftover adhesive, it's best to use an alcohol pad to clean it up as well as the general area.
Let the area dry before installing the speaker.

Step 9

After removing both speakers, your MacBook should look like the one in the photo.
If you cleaned off adhesive in the previous step, make sure the area is clean/dry before moving on.

Step 10

This step is optional if your replacement speaker does not have any adhesive.
Put adhesive around the outside of the speaker; use the glue sparingly.
Make sure you are using a glue that is specifically designed for computer repair or speaker repair. Here is a solvent that can be used for this guide.