The MacBook keyboard is an important aspect of your laptop; its malfunction can become frustrating and paralyzing. If you have a problem with your MacBook keyboard keys not working, you are not alone. This article will walk you through troubleshooting steps to fix the MacBook keyboard keys not working issue.
MacBook users should clean the keyboard, check for software updates, reset the SMC (system management controller) and PRAM/NVRAM, boot into safe mode, inspect for hardware damage, and contact Apple support and a third-party Mac repair shop to fix the issue.
Steps to Fix MacBook Keyboard Keys Not Working Issue
Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your MacBook keyboard issues.
1. Clean the Keyboard
Tools Needed: Compressed air, a microfiber cloth, and isopropyl alcohol (optional).
What Steps to Take?
- Turn Off Your MacBook: Power off your MacBook completely to avoid accidental key presses during cleaning to fix the MacBook keyboard keys not working issue.
- Hold the MacBook at a 75-Degree Angle: Hold your MacBook at an angle of 75 degrees and tip it a little back so that the keyboard is almost vertical; this helps with all the dust and dirt falling out.
- Use Compressed Air: Start from one end by quickly expelling the compressed air across the gaps among the keys. Move across horizontally. Repeat this in vertical and inverted positions to dislodge trapped dust particles.
- Wipe with a Microfiber Cloth: Once you have blown off the compressed air, dry the keyboard with a microfiber cloth to sweep out any remaining dust or fingerprints. If necessary, lightly moisten the fabric with the slightest amount of isopropyl alcohol to troubleshoot the MacBook Keyboard Keys Not Working Issue.
2. Check for Software Updates
What Steps to Take?
- Open System Preferences: Click the Apple logo at the top left of your screen and choose “System Preferences.”
- Click on Software Update: If updates are available, click on “Update Now” to update your Mac; in many cases, this will solve the bugs or glitches that are causing havoc with your keyboard.
- Restart Your MacBook: Restart your MacBook to let the changes come into effect.
3. Reset the SMC (System Management Controller)
The SMC controls various hardware functions on your MacBook, including the keyboard. Resetting it can resolve many hardware-related issues.
What Steps to Take:
- Shut Down Your MacBook: Power off your MacBook completely.
- Press and Hold the Power Button: On newer MacBook’s with the T2 security chip, press and hold the power button for 10 seconds, then release it.
- For MacBook’s Without the T2 Chip: Press and hold the Shift + Control + Option keys on the left side of the keyboard, then press and hold the power button simultaneously. Hold all keys and the power button for 10 seconds. Release all keys and press the power button to turn on your MacBook.
- Check the Keyboard: After the reset, check if the keyboard functions properly.
4. Reset the PRAM/NVRAM for Unresponsive MacBook Keyboard Keys Troubleshooting
Resetting the PRAM/NVRAM can also help resolve keyboard issues, especially system settings-related issues.
What Steps to Take?
- Shut Down Your MacBook: Power off your MacBook.
- Turn On Your MacBook: Immediately press and hold the Option + Command + P + R keys.
- Hold for 20 Seconds: Hold the keys until your MacBook restarts and you hear the startup sound.
- Release the Keys: Check if the keyboard issue is resolved.
5. Boot into Safe Mode
Safe Mode turns off certain software and performs a basic check of your startup disk. This can help determine if a third-party application or a corrupted file is causing the keyboard problem.
What Steps to Take?
- Shut Down Your MacBook: Power off your MacBook.
- Turn On Your MacBook: Press and hold the Shift key immediately after pressing the power button.
- Log In: Release the Shift key when you see the login window, then log in to your MacBook.
- Test the Keyboard: At this stage, use the keyboard in Safe Mode to test whether the problem still exists. The problem might be related to third-party software or settings if it doesn’t.
6. Inspect for Hardware Damage
If none of the methods above works, hardware damage may cause the problem.
What Steps to Take?
- Check for Swollen Battery: A swollen battery can create pressure on the keyboard, which can cause future malfunction. If you experience bulging in the area surrounding the keyboard or the trackpad, stop using your MacBook and bring it to an Apple Store or an authorized repair center for checking.
- Look for Liquid Damage: Liquid spills can cause short circuits inside the keyboard or corrode its components. If you have spilled liquid on your MacBook recently, it is very important to let a professional check it.
7. Contact Apple Support and Third-Party Repair Center
If none of the above troubleshooting steps work, your unresponsive MacBook keyboard key problem could be serious and need professional attention. You can contact Apple Support or visit a third-party repair shop like Mobile Market. We can diagnose hardware problems and provide necessary repairs or replacements to restore your keyboard’s functionality.
Why is my MacBook keyboard not typing?
If your MacBook keyboard is not typing, it’s likely due to a stuck key, a dirty or damaged keyboard, or a software issue. To resolve the issue, try restarting your MacBook, cleaning the keyboard, and checking for conflicting software.
How do I fix unresponsive keys on my MacBook?
To fix the MacBook keyboard keys not working, try cleaning the keyboard with compressed air and a soft cloth, restarting your MacBook, and running Disk Utility to check for corrupted system files. If the issue persists, contact Apple Support for further assistance.
How to reset a Mac keyboard?
To reset a Mac keyboard, press and hold the Command + Shift + Option keys while powering on your Mac. Release the keys when you hear the boot chime for the second time, and your Mac will start in a fresh state.
Conclusion
To summarize, fixing the MacBook keyboard keys not working requires troubleshooting steps and patience. You should clean the keyboard, check for software updates, reset the SMC (system management controller) and PRAM/NVRAM, boot into safe mode, inspect for hardware damage, and contact Apple support and a third-party repair shop to fix the issue.
