I started my early 2011 MacBook to open a a cd yesterday. The trackpad bulged ominously. New battery arrived today along with the correct screwdrivers. It feels quite snappy. I think I’ll start using if for 32 bit stuff which should let me update the newer one.

@johnjohnston A few years ago, my wife was still using my 2010 MacBook Pro. She kept complaining that something was wrong with the trackpad, but was too busy to let me look at it.

When she finally handed it over, I discovered that the trackpad was raised high in the air by an expanded battery in just the way you describe…