Scissor Mechanism

Select the appropriate keyboard map below:

• MacBook Air (M1, 2020)

• MacBook Pro (13-inch, M1, 2020; and 13-inch, M2, 2022)

• MacBook Air (M2, 2022) or later and MacBook Pro (14-inch and 16-inch, 2021) or later

Note: Removal and reassembly steps for scissor mechanism keys are the same for all models.

Maps

• Each symbol on the maps below corresponds to a symbol on the scissor mechanism identification chart and the scissor bag.

• Blue indicates where the snaps are located, and green indicates link bars.

MacBook Air (M1, 2020)

MacBook Pro (13-inch, M1, 2020; and 13-inch, M2, 2022)

MacBook Air (M2, 2022) or later and MacBook Pro (14-inch and 16-inch, 2021) or later

Removal

Important

• Do not remove a scissor mechanism unless it is damaged. You can find the correct replacement in Scissor Mechanism Identification.

• Note the orientation of the scissor mechanism before you remove it.

1. Use the black stick to disengage the scissor pins from the lower hooks.

   

2. Use tweezers to lift the scissor mechanism out of the well.

   

3. Inspect the well of the keycap:

   • When you press and release the dome, it should spring back upright. If the dome is damaged or not centered, replace the top case.

   • If a lower hook is bent, try to bend it back to a 90-degree angle.

   • If an upper hook is bent, use needle-nose pliers to straighten it.

   • If any lower hook or upper hook is broken or bent beyond repair, replace the top case.

Reassembly

1. Use compressed air to clean the well of the keycap.

   • Note: If compressed air doesn’t dislodge visible debris, use the black stick to gently dislodge it.

2. Use ESD-safe tweezers to position the scissor in the well and engage the upper hooks.

   

3. Use the black stick to engage the scissor pins with the lower hooks. The pin is engaged as shown (1). The pin is not engaged as shown (2).

   

4. Use the black stick to gently move the scissor mechanism up and down. Ensure that the scissor mechanism moves easily and lies flat when released.

Scissor Mechanism Identification

Match the scissor mechanism to the label to identify the correct replacement. Don’t replace a scissor mechanism unless it is broken.