Exactly - when asked about it, they repeatedly claimed the battery has not been changed, which is a lie. Even when I put this evidence to them, they still claimed it hadn't been changed. I'm struggling to see why they would lie about it unless there is something else amiss too. Macbooks + Ebay + dishonest sellers usually adds up to something bad.
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Ways to reset cycle count to 0?
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You could call AppleCare and give them the serial number and ask them to check repair history for topcase repairs. The only thing I find off is even a brand new Mac often has a cycle or two on the battery, possibly for conditioning or something.
If it were me I would find the sellers behavior disconcerting as well. Maybe they really are unaware and just being hyper defensive; but, unless they are giving you a reasonable explanation as to why the cycle count was reset -- and whether there was any other previously undisclosed repair work on the machine -- I would request a return/refund through eBay. I trust the software (and Apple if they confirm work on serial #) in this case over some rando on eBay. Even if seller doesn't accept returns, you should be OK through eBay/PayPal buyer protection since the item you received does not match the sellers description.
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Apple are saying no record of service at their end, which is worrying. They suggested taking it into an Apple Store but apparently there's a charge to have it looked over there (and also it's not near here). Very confused because the battery looks legit, but who else could have sourced and installed a legit battery?
Probably for soak testing of some sort, my new 2018 had either 2 or 3 when I got it.
You have cycles on it now, right? I don't know anything about how MacOS and the hardware determine battery cycles - but is it possible the OS keeps track and the counter gets reset when you wipe the drive and re-install the OS? Perhaps when the seller wiped the SSD it cause this? If Apple has no history and it's an OEM battery, then what are odds the seller is trying to screw you? Trying to give them the benefit of the doubt...
If you haven't installed any data yet I would wipe the drive and re-install from Internet Recovery. Boot back into the fresh installation and see if the battery counter has reset itself.
Simplo is the most common brand of battery found in MacBooks. I'd say you got a genuine Apple battery in the thing and you're good to go. Now quit dwelling on the mundane and start pounding on that keyboard!
My understanding is that there is a small processor in the battery itself which stores cycle count and battery specific setting and also manages battery charging. So it should not be affected by an OS reinstall.
I read a paper by a guy who actually hacked the battery by bypassing the lock code on this chip and then could modify various settings. He destroyed a number of batteries in the process
I would not worry too much about the battery. It is new and seems to be MAC original.
Not true for the OP's 2016. The battery is not a part of the keyboard. It is fixed to the case by non-permanent adhesive. You can pry it out and replace it with a new battery only, no need to replace the keyboard. https://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/MacBook+Pro+13-Inch+Touch+Bar+Teardown/73480
You can, but I think as far as Apple repair procedure is concerned it's still treated as a single combined part. I think it's only in new macbook air they've started sing officially removable adhesive strips on a macbook line
Hey man, I saw your comment regarding Rewa battery for MBP on some other posts on this forum. I’m assuming you have used that company and their battery before. Would you mind sharing your experience, please?