Guide · Casing

Dented, scratched or cracked MacBook casing or chassis : what to do ?

A dented corner, a warped bottom case, torn-off feet, a cracked edge… Beyond looks, a damaged chassis can jam a port, press on the screen or let dust in. Good news : both top case and bottom case can be replaced. Here’s how to work out what you need.

Place du Mac Practical guide 4 July 2026 5 min read
The essentials

On a MacBook, the bodywork is made of two parts : the top case (which holds the keyboard and trackpad) and the bottom case (the underside). Depending on where the damage is, you replace one or the other — no need to change everything. Beyond looks, a warped chassis can get in the way of closing, jam a port or let dust in : repairing it also protects the inside. Find your model number, and the right case is just two clicks away.

Identify

Which part for which damage ?

The right instinct : work out whether it’s the top or the bottom, and whether the damage is cosmetic or a nuisance.

Case1

The bottom case (the underside) is dented

The most common after a drop : a dented corner, a warped underside, torn-off feet. If the Mac no longer sits flat or the lid closes poorly, the bottom case can be replaced on its own — it’s simple and inexpensive.

With us : bottom cases in stock, from €20 depending on the model.
Case2

The top case (keyboard / trackpad) is damaged

A cracked corner near the keyboard, a marked trackpad edge, a dented palm rest : that’s the top case. It often includes the keyboard : replacing it is a chance to start fresh on the typing side.

Case3

Damage that gets in the way of use

A deformation that jams a port (USB-C, jack), that prevents closing, or that presses on the screen is no longer just cosmetic : deal with it to avoid damaging the inside. A chassis that lets dust in also speeds up overheating.

Case4

Just superficial scratches

If the Mac works perfectly and these are only micro-scratches, there’s no rush : it’s purely cosmetic. You can replace the case whenever you like, to get that like-new look back.

Before you order

Finding the right case in three steps

The bodywork is specific to each model : compatibility comes down to the model number.

STEP 01
Note down your A####
The model number under the Mac guarantees a perfectly fitting case.
STEP 02
Top or bottom ?
Identify the part concerned : top case (keyboard) or bottom case (underside).
STEP 03
Check the colour
Grey, silver, gold… choose your Mac’s shade on the product page.
The solution

Replacing the case : two ways

Yourself

The right case in stock

A wide choice by model and colour :

  • Bottom case — from €20 depending on the model
  • Top case depending on the reference
  • Compatibility by model number, 2-year warranty

See the cases →

Workshop

We handle the fitting

A warped chassis sometimes needs disassembly :

  • Diagnosis : top, bottom, or internal deformation
  • Fitting the case and checking the ports and closing
  • Workshop in Paris 9th, 2-year warranty

Contact us →

Common myth
✗ False
“ A dented case is just cosmetic, you can ignore it. ”

Not always. A deformation can jam a port, get in the way of closing, press on the screen or let dust in — and that damages the inside. When the damage affects use, replacing the case protects far pricier parts. For simple scratches, on the other hand, there’s no rush.

Key takeaway
If there’s one thing to remember

Top or bottom : replace the right case, not both.

Spot the damaged part and your model number, and the bodywork can be replaced for a few dozen euros. Beyond looks, repair without waiting if the chassis gets in the way of a port, closing or lets dust in.

Frequently asked questions

MacBook casing : your questions

Can you replace only the bottom case ?

Yes. The bottom case (the underside) is replaced independently of the top case. It’s the most common case after a drop that dented the underside or tore off the feet.

What’s the difference between top case and bottom case ?

The top case holds the keyboard and trackpad; the bottom case is the underside of the Mac. Depending on where the damage is, you replace one or the other, not both.

How much does a MacBook case cost ?

At Place du Mac, bottom cases start around €20 depending on the model. Top cases vary by reference. Find your A#### model number for the right part.

Can a dented case damage my Mac ?

Yes, if the deformation jams a port, prevents closing, presses on the screen or lets dust in (which encourages overheating). In these cases, it’s better to repair; for simple scratches, it’s purely cosmetic.

How can I be sure of the case’s compatibility ?

The bodywork is specific to each model and colour : give your A#### model number and your Mac’s shade. Each product page states the compatible models.

Can I change the case myself ?

The bottom case is often accessible; the top case requires more disassembly (keyboard, components). If you’d rather, our workshop does the fitting and checks ports and closing.

Place du Mac guide — top and bottom cases by model and colour, 2-year warranty, workshop at 51 rue du Faubourg Poissonnière, Paris 9th. Apple, Mac and MacBook are trademarks of Apple Inc. ; Place du Mac is an independent repairer, not affiliated with Apple Inc.

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