MacBook Pro Special Report follow-up #4: More on loose batteries, powering off

We continue coverage of an issue where the MacBook Pro suddenly shuts off when disconnected from external power, apparently not receiving power from a charged battery.

In some cases, the cause has been an seemingly loose battery.

One reader reports that making sure the battery is flush with the bottom of the unit and that it clicks firmly in place eliminates the issue.

The reader writes:

"My 2GHz MBP is 2 weeks old now and worked hitch-free until now (not counting the annoying buzz or whine from the LCD). Then it started to show "no battery available" (small battery crossed out) in the status bar, while the computer was abviously running on battery power. Checked the battery state on the battery itself and the green LEDs came up nicely. Hmmm... A few hours later I got a random 'shutdown'

"Then started to closely examine the battery compartment, and found the solution: the spring-loaded latches may be mislocked (one corner of the battery sticked out maybe 1/100" or so on the bottom of the computer). Removing and reinserting the battery (making sure that it clicks firmly in place, then wiping the bottom surface by hand to "feel" that the battery case is in level with the housing) solved the problem. Looks like that the power may still flow while sensory connectors are not (or mis-) connected on the battery. And I am absolutely sure that the battery became loose while I was using it, it was firmly seated before. (I read emails laying in my bed, holding the MBP on my knees - friction may eventually loosen or work free the two sliding battery anchor latches. This could not happen with the earlier twist type anchors)."

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

For more coverage, see our MacBook Pro special report.

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