Chosen Solution
Just replaced the battery with the iFixit recommended product (purchased through iFixit store) and the machine randomly goes to black screen. No error message. The battery monitor indicator in the top menu, says “battery needs service”. We’ve performed multiple SMC / PRAM resets, calibrated the battery properly via charging instructions provided after the install, and had Apple run diagnostics that repeatedly produce the PPT004 battery defective error. My hunch is the controller in the battery itself is bad, and I need to get a replacement from iFixit, but would like to make sure I’ve exhausted all the other possibilities / ideas before having to R & R the battery again. Any help would be greatly appreciated! This is my work colleagues machine, and she’s getting pretty frustrated with it failing during our client meetings! Thanks community! Scott
even new batteries from reputable sellers, like iFixit, can be bad right out of the box, numbers game, millions produced, some fail after factory quality control tests. go back over the install, check connector under microscope, to see if there is debris like little foam or adhesive pieces in connector or there could be a damaged pin.
@Scott Cole - The battery appears to be charging! I’m suspecting if you let the system fully charge the battery (a good 8 hours with the system turned off) the top green line should be to the far right. At that point you’ll need to do a SMC reset but we need to do it a bit differently! First make sure the system is fully off, then carefully disconnect the battery following Step 4 in MacBook Air 13” Retina Display Late 2018 Battery Replacement Once its disconnected I want you to press and hold the power button so the logic is fully discharged (a good 15 sec)). Then plug back in the battery. Turn the system back on and give it a good 15 minutes and test again.
