Popping laptop trackpad may signal swollen battery and fire risk
Engadget advises users to stop using, switch off and unplug laptops with lifting trackpads or bulging cases, then seek professional assessment.
A laptop trackpad that is lifting, popping out or accompanied by a bulging case may indicate a swollen lithium-ion battery beneath it, according to Engadget.
Users who notice these signs should stop using the laptop, switch it off and unplug it. Damaged or swollen batteries can pose a potential fire risk, and Engadget advises against dismantling an affected device or inspecting the battery without professional help.
Modern laptops, including Surface laptops and MacBooks, commonly place batteries beneath the trackpad. Internal gas production linked to overcharging or physical damage can cause the battery to expand and push against surrounding components. A loose trackpad can also result from other faults, including a loose screw or impact damage.
Repair costs and warranty coverage vary by device. Engadget cites Apple battery replacement prices of US$149 to US$249 for some MacBook models, while noting that a damaged trackpad may increase the cost. The quoted prices are in US dollars and may not apply in Australia.
Battery-care measures include avoiding extreme heat and direct sunlight, using certified chargers and storing a laptop at about 50 per cent charge if it will not be used for an extended period.
