MacBook

How to Fix MacBook Keyboard Not Working Except Power Button

Posted on by Repair Grow
MacBook Keyboard Not Working
22
Dec

Is your MacBook keyboard not responding to your inputs? It could be frustrating, but you don’t need to panic, as many solutions exist to resolve this problem. To fix the MacBook keyboard not working, you can try cleaning your keyboard, restarting your Mac device, managing Modifier Keys, and checking your keyboard layout settings.

Moreover, you can turn off slow and sticky keys. Third-party apps or outdated software could also be culprits behind your Mac keyboard issue, so remove unnecessary apps and update the macOS for safe and smooth functionality. If none of these methods work, you should visit a MacBook repair shop.

9 Methods to Fix MacBook Keyboard Not Working

Here are some effective and practical solutions to revive the normal functionality of your MacBook keyboard that is malfunctioning:

1. Clean Your MacBook Keyboard

Dust and debris can cause your MacBook keys to become unresponsive. But simple cleaning can solve the problem:

  • Place your MacBook at a 75-degree angle.
  • Use compressed air from a can and spray around the keys with short bursts.
  • Spray from various sides to cover all sections completely.
  • If compressed air alone does not help, you can use other cleaning tools designed for delicate electronics.

2. Manage Modifier Keys

Modifier keys, such as Shift, Control, and Option, are important for shortcuts. If they have incorrect settings, they can affect the functionality. To change them:

  • Open “System Settings” and click on the “Keyboard” tab.
  • Next, select “Keyboard Shortcuts” and then hit the “Modifier Keys” option.
  • Reassign actions for each modifier key and click “Done” to save changes.

3. Check Keyboard Layout Settings

Sometimes, misconfiguration of the keyboard layout could be the culprit. Here is how to check:

  • Open the “System Settings” on your Mac and go to the “Keyboard” tab.
  • After that, click “Edit” under the “Input Sources” section.
  • Add or remove keyboard layouts using the plus and minus buttons.

This method can remove mismatches between key inputs and outputs.

4. Restart Your MacBook 

Rebooting your MacBook device can resolve many software problems or minor issues. Here’s how you can restart:

  • First, press “Command + Q” to close all running apps and programs and disconnect extensions. 
  • Then, press the “Command + Control + Power” buttons until the display goes black. 
  • After that, release the keys and press the “Power” key again to restart your Mac.

5. Disable Slow and Sticky Keys

Accessibility features like Sticky Keys (where modifier keys remain active without needing to hold them down) and Slow Keys (where the registration of key presses is delayed) can hinder regular typing. To turn these settings off:

  • First, navigate to “System Settings” and select the “Accessibility” option. 
  • Then, click on the “Keyboard” option under Motor.
  • After that, turn off “Sticky Keys” and “Slow Keys” from the given options.

6. Check Third-Party Applications

Some third-party applications may conflict with your keyboard. To find suspicious applications:

  • Go to “Finder” and open the “Applications” folder.
  • Find and sort by “Date Added” to see newly installed apps.
  • Test by uninstalling and reinstalling apps or reviewing their settings.
  • You can use a tool or software to remove unnecessary apps and malware.

 7. Update Your macOS

Outdated software may cause compatibility issues, such as keyboard malfunction. To update macOS:

  • Initially, go to “System Settings” and select “Software Update” under your Apple ID.
  • Next, click “Update Tonight” or “Restart Now” to install the latest updates.
  • Make sure that your MacBook has enough battery and memory space.

8. Use an External Keyboard

If your Mac keyboard has a hardware issue, you can use an external keyboard in emergencies. Even if your MacBook keyboard stops working, you can still continue working, gaming or completing urgent tasks with an external keyboard. It’s simple yet effective as a backup.

9. Get Professional Assistance

Sometimes, Mac keyboard issues are bigger than you think, and you cannot fix them with a DIY method. In such cases, you can seek professional assistance from a trusted MacBook repair shop such as Mobile Market. We have highly skilled technicians who can handle your device’s software and hardware issues. 

Why Is My MacBook Keyboard Not Typing?

Here are some typical causes of keyboard problems on your MacBook:

  • Water Damage: Water exposure or liquid spillage can negatively impact your Mac, especially on the keyboard.
  • Physical Damage: Accidental drops or physical damage can be the major cause of an unresponsive Mac keyboard.
  • Software Glitch: System bugs or misconfigured settings may prevent your keyboard from properly functioning.
  • Wear or Tear: Frequent usage or random connectivity can cause problems like keyboard malfunctioning.
  • Old Versions of MacOS: An outdated OS means compatibility issues with the keyboard.
  • Dust Accumulation: Dust and debris can trap inside the Butterfly keyboard design on older MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models, causing keys to malfunction.

Conclusion

If your MacBook is your educational or professional partner, you cannot afford any issues, especially with a keyboard or other hardware components. However, whenever your Mac keyboard stops working, you can revive its functionality by applying the right method. 

Some effective methods include cleaning your keyboard, managing Modifier keys, checking keyboard layout, and disabling Sticky keys. Moreover, you can remove third-party apps and update your macOS. You can also use an external keyboard for emergency conditions. If your keyboard is damaged, you can seek professional assistance from MacBook repair technicians.

Repair Grow