Swollen Battery Warning: Stop Using Laptop If Trackpad Pops Out, Engadget Says

Trackpads on modern laptops are usually flat, so a loose trackpad or a cracked glass cover is not normal. A swollen battery can push against nearby components, and because the battery is often located underneath the trackpad, it can force the trackpad upward. According to Engadget, a trackpad that pops out is usually a sign that the battery is nearing the end of its life.

Lithium-ion batteries power modern laptops when they are unplugged. They rely on many chemical reactions and are generally safe when used properly, but overcharging or physical damage can cause internal chemical components to produce harmful gases. The battery then swells and pushes against the components around it, which Engadget described as disastrous for the laptop. In the worst case, a faulty battery can swell until it explodes, and Engadget said the risk of it bursting into flames is very real.

Other hardware problems, such as a loose internal screw or an impact, can also make a trackpad come loose. Engadget said it is still worth taking every precaution to make sure the issue is not a battery problem.

If a trackpad is popping up or the laptop case seems to be bulging, Engadget advised users to stop using the laptop immediately, turn it off and unplug it. For most people, the best advice is to take the laptop to a repair shop. Handling a swollen battery can be very dangerous, because one wrong move could cause it to catch fire. A professional repair is probably the right choice.

Repairs are usually possible. The trackpad snaps back into place once a new battery is installed, according to Engadget. Prices vary. Apple charges $149 to $249 to replace a MacBook battery, depending on the model, and the price may be higher if the swollen battery damaged the trackpad. Most laptop makers will repair a bad battery for free if the device is still under warranty, so users should check whether their laptop is still covered.

Engadget also listed habits that can help preserve a laptop battery and reduce the chance of overloading. Users should avoid leaving a laptop in extreme temperatures or in direct sunlight for long periods, and they should use original, certified chargers. If a laptop will be stored without use for an extended period, it should be kept at about 50 percent charge and turned on and checked every three months. Changing some settings can also help reduce battery wear.