MacBook Pro 2012 repair (13 and 15 inch, non-Retina)
The Mid 2012 Unibody is the last MacBook Pro you can open and upgrade with ordinary parts. That makes it one of the most worthwhile Macs to repair.
This is the aluminium Unibody MacBook Pro with a DVD drive, the final model before the Retina display. It has two memory slots, a standard 2.5 inch drive bay and a battery held in by screws, so almost everything in it can be replaced or improved.
Models covered
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2012)
- Model A1278
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2012)
- Model A1286
Faults we fix
- Very slow to start and open apps
- Flashing folder with a question mark
- Battery no longer holding charge, or 'Service Battery' warning
- Cracked screen or failed backlight
- Not charging from the MagSafe adapter
- Overheating and loud fan
- Keyboard or trackpad faults
- Liquid spill damage
Repairs and upgrades
- SSD upgrade with your system and files cloned across
- Memory upgrade
- Hard drive cable replacement
- Battery replacement
- Screen repair and replacement
- Keyboard and trackpad replacement
- Logic board repair
- MagSafe charging board repair
- Fan clean and thermal paste
- A second drive fitted in place of the DVD drive
- Data recovery from the original hard drive
The flashing question mark folder
On the 13 inch model in particular, the flat cable that connects the hard drive is a well-known weak point. When it fails the Mac can't find its system and shows a folder with a question mark, even though the drive and your files are usually fine. We test the cable and the drive separately, so you don't pay for a new drive you don't need.
An SSD makes it a different computer
The original mechanical hard drive is what makes a 2012 MacBook Pro feel slow. Replacing it with an SSD and adding memory makes it start in seconds. This model no longer receives new versions of macOS, so we'll tell you honestly what it will and won't run before you spend money on it.
Not the right model? See all MacBook Pro models by year.
MacBook Pro repair
Other services
Common questions
Is a 2012 MacBook Pro still worth repairing?
For everyday use, often yes. Parts are inexpensive and the upgrade to an SSD is dramatic. It can't run the newest macOS, so if you need current software we'll tell you that before you commit.
How much memory can it take?
Both the 13 and 15 inch models have two memory slots and work well with 16GB.
Can you collect my Mac from Fulham or Central London?
Collection and return can be arranged for homes and offices across Fulham and Central London. Ask when you call 020 7237 6805 and we'll confirm what's possible for your postcode. You're also welcome to bring it to the workshop at Willow Walk, SE1, Monday to Saturday.
Is the repair guaranteed?
Yes. Parts we fit and motherboard repairs carry a 90-day warranty. If the same fault comes back in that time, bring the machine in and we'll put it right.