MacBook (13"): Possible hardware fix for sudden shutdowns

Sudden shutdowns -- where units inexplicably power off during routine operation -- have been persistent causes for angst among MacBook (13") owners.

In our MacBook special report, we noted that usual suspects for this type of issue are corrupt PRAM, improperly seated or bad RAM, or a problematic PMU. However, users have yet to find relief from the symptom with these traditional workarounds. Diagnostics performed using the Apple Hardware Test CD have also failed to yield conclusive evidence of component failure.

We also noted a number of potential workarounds, including some software-based solutions and techniques like re-seating RAM.

In most severe cases, however, replacement through AppleCare has been the only viable solution.

Now MacFixIt reader Richard Chi Fai Li has discovered that removing the top case of the MacBook results in elimination of the sudden shutdowns. This information led him to another discovery: placing Kapton tape and a generic spacer on the metal casing (as pictured below) allowed replacement of the top casing while still resolving the sudden shutdown issue. NOTE: This procedure should only be performed by a Certified Apple technician. Attempting the work on your own may result in your warranty being voided.

Richard writes:

"I found that if I take off the top case, the problem never happens. So I tried to see if it's related to the top case by loosen the screws to see if that fix the problem. At first it seems so random that I was unable to be certain which screw is causing the issue. Later I found out if I tighten the bottom, it sure to happen. So now I put a spacer (usually found in those stand-offs of those no name brand PCs, red in color, round, hard paper type) around the center post of the top case, tape it so it won't come loose.

"After placing the Kapton Tape, I pushed the CPU to 100%. When the temperature reaches 85 degree, the fan will turn on at high speed and the temperature will lower back to about 77 degree. Tried many times, the computer did not cut off at all. Please note the red spacer on the Centre Post of the top case, the Kapton Tape on the edge of the top case where it touches the heat sink. I also taped the Trackpad/Keyboard cable just in case."

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

For further MacBook (13") coverage, see our special report on the system.

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