Apple's site says it is $199 to replace the battery. Do the techs replace the entire top portion of the case including the keyboard and trackpad? I've read a few things on the internet alluding to that since the battery is glued in, they replace the entire assembly.
Just wondering if this includes the keyboard and track pad. (I think it must include the keyboard since it is riveted in). I'm wondering specifically about the trackpad, since mine has been flaky for a while, and now battery is about due for replacement.
Mine is a mid 2012 macbook pro retina.
Update: Had this done, and for the low price of $199 I got a new keyboard, trackpad and topcase as part of the deal, as expected. I can't believe how worn out my old keyboard was!
Best Answer
It appears to be the case that Apple will replace the top case assembly if you want to replace your battery.
Source: EveryMac.com
According to iFixit, it will cost local repair shops around $500 to source the top case assembly to replace the battery.
IFixit.com also has instructions on how to remove this battery should you want to replace it. Batteries with a minimum of 12 month warranties can be had for $90USD makes this a worthwhile consideration. Keep in mind that this is a difficult repair and if you are unsure of your ability to tackle something like this, best hand it over to a pro.