When it comes to unscrewing and opening up your MacBook Pro, having the right screwdriver is essential. Using the wrong size or type of screwdriver can result in stripped screw heads, rendering them impossible to remove. Selecting the proper screwdriver ensures you can get inside your MacBook Pro without damage.
Quick Answers
For most MacBook Pro models, you’ll need a P5 pentalobe screwdriver to remove the bottom case screws. Some older models use TORX T6 or T8 screws instead. Once inside, most internal screws are TORX T5 or T6. Make sure to use a screwdriver specifically designed for electronics, with a precise fit, magnetized tip, and high quality steel shaft.
What Are Pentalobe Screws?
Pentalobe screws have a five-point star shaped recess and are commonly used on Apple MacBook models. Introduced in 2009 alongside the unibody MacBook Pro, these screws make it more difficult for end-users to open the chassis. Pentalobe screws require a specialized screwdriver and help prevent tampering.
| Pentalobe Size | Models Used On |
|---|---|
| P5 | MacBook Pro 2009 and newer |
| P2 | MacBook Air 2010-2012 |
The most common size used on MacBook Pros is P5. You’ll need a P5 pentalobe screwdriver to remove the bottom case and gain internal access on most models from 2009 onwards. Earlier MacBook Pros used TORX T6 or T8 screws instead, so you’ll need the appropriate TORX driver for those models.
Removing the Bottom Case
For MacBook Pros from 2009 to 2015, you’ll find 10 P5 pentalobe screws securing the bottom case. On the 2016 MacBook Pro and newer, Apple reduced the number of screws to 6. In both instances, you’ll need a P5 pentalobe screwdriver to remove them. Here are the steps involved:
- Shut down your MacBook Pro and flip it over to access the bottom.
- Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on your work surface.
- Attach the P5 pentalobe driver to your screwdriver.
- Unscrew the 6 or 10 screws and lift off the bottom case.
With the bottom case removed, you’ll have access to the internal components. Be very careful when handling exposed parts inside your MacBook Pro.
What About the Internal Screws?
Once you have the bottom case off, you’ll need to unscrew brackets, shields, and mounts to access internal components. Apple uses a mix of TORX T5 and T6 screws to secure internal parts:
- TORX T5 – Used for components like the battery, SSD, fans, logic board, and keyboard.
- TORX T6 – Used on heavier brackets and structural mounts.
It’s a good idea to have both a T5 and T6 TORX screwdriver on hand when working internally. A T5 will handle most commonly accessed components. Look for screwdrivers with secure-fitting magnetic tips to avoid dropping and losing screws inside the tight MacBook Pro chassis.
Choosing the Right Screwdriver
Here are some tips for selecting a high quality screwdriver set for use with your MacBook Pro:
- Look for pentalobe and TORX screwdrivers designed specifically for electronics repair.
- Aim for precision machined tips that fit screws perfectly.
- Magnetized tips help hold screws in place during installation and removal.
- Hardened steel shafts resist stripping and breakage.
- A soft, cushioned grip aids comfort and control.
- Choose antistatic models when working on sensitive internal electronics.
- Opt for a compact kit that covers P5, T5, T6, and other common sizes.
Avoid cheap generic screwdriver sets. Their lower quality can lead to damaged screws or internal components. While more expensive, specialty precision electronics screwdrivers are worth the investment for repeated repairs.
Recommended Pentalobe and TORX Screwdriver Sets
| Brand | Model |
|---|---|
| iFixit | 54 Bit Driver Kit |
| Wera | Kraftform Micro Screwdriver Set |
| Wiha | 76092 Precision Hand Tool Set |
These high quality screwdriver sets all include precision pentalobe, TORX, and other bits commonly needed for MacBook Pro repair. Investing in the right tools helps ensure repairs go smoothly.
Pentalobe Adapters
If you need to open a MacBook Pro only occasionally, a dedicated pentalobe screwdriver may be overkill. Pentalobe adapter bits provide cost effective access in those cases. These adapter bits fit a standard 1/4 inch hex driver. Here are some recommended options:
- Gowoops P5 Pentalobe Adapter
- Avatdo Pentalobe Screwdriver Bit Set
- Xcellent Global P5 & P2 Pentalobe Set
The advantage of pentalobe adapters is convenience and affordability. The downside is potential cam-out if the fit isn’t perfect. For occasional repairs though, adapters work well.
Screwdriver Alternatives
If you find yourself without the right pentalobe or TORX screwdriver, there are a couple alternatives:
Rubber Band
Place a wide rubber band between the screw head and your regular Phillips or flat head screwdriver. The rubber fills in the gaps and provides enough grip to unscrew pentalobe screws. Just be cautious not to strip them in the process.
Super Glue
You can glue a standard screwdriver tip to pentalobe or TORX screws using cyanoacrylate super glue. Allow the glue to fully cure, then unscrew the fastener normally. The glue will release its bond once the screw is removed. This method can save the day in a pinch.
Specialized Pentalobe Screwdrivers
In some cases, you may need specialized pentalobe screwdrivers beyond the standard P5 and P2 sizes:
Long-Reach Pentalobe
MacBook Pros have diagnostic ports recessed deep inside the chassis. To access them, a long 5 inch shaft pentalobe screwdriver is needed. The added reach helps get to the hard-to-reach ports.
Pentalobe Screwdriver with Suction Cup
Opening iPad and iPhone devices requires a P2 pentalobe screwdriver with a suction cup attached. The suction cup helps lift the screen once the screws are removed.
Pentalobe Screwdriver with Pry Tool
Some pentalobe screwdriver sets include an integrated pry tool or spudger. This helps open sealed cases, pry out components, and disconnect ribbon cables once unscrewed.
Do’s and Don’ts
Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when unscrewing your MacBook Pro:
Do
- Use a precision pentalobe P5 screwdriver for the outer case.
- Have both a T5 and T6 TORX screwdriver available.
- Take care not to overtighten screws on reassembly.
- Follow a systematic guide for fully proper disassembly steps.
Don’t
- Attempt to force the wrong screwdriver into fasteners.
- Use excessive force when encountering resistance.
- Lose track of which screws go where.
- Rotate MacBook Pro while screws are loose internally.
Rushing or forcing screws can damage them and make repairs much harder. Patience pays off.
Conclusion
Having the correct tools for the job makes all the difference when attempting do-it-yourself MacBook Pro repairs. Investing in quality pentalobe and TORX screwdrivers specially designed for electronics can save you time, money, and headaches. Don’t improvise with improvised tools that can possibly damage screws and components. With the right pentalobe P5 and TORX T5/T6 screwdrivers, you can confidently open your MacBook Pro and perform many upgrades and fixes yourself.