Have you ever been irritated that some of the keys on your MacBook keyboard are not functioning properly? This problem may occur for any reason, such as dirt, dust, or liquid spills. This guide explores the steps to identify and fix the MacBook keyboard keys that are not working.
5 Reasons Why MacBook Keyboard Keys Not Working
First, knowing why MacBook keys can stop working is helpful before proceeding to the solutions stage. The causes can be hardware and software repair issues, such as program bugs or settings, or hardware problems, including a failure in the circuitry. Here are some common reasons why the MacBook keyboard is not typing:
- Software Issues: Sometimes, the conflict is with the operating system or individual applications running on the computer.
- Settings Configuration: Incorrect keyboard settings or accessibility options might interfere with normal keyboard functioning.
- Physical Damage: Spills, dust, and debris can cause keys to become unresponsive.
- Firmware Issues: Outdated firmware can sometimes lead to hardware malfunctions.
- Battery Health: A swollen battery can press against the keyboard from underneath, causing keys to malfunction.
10 Steps to Fix MacBook Keyboard Keys Not Working
Here are the vital steps to fix your MacBook.
1. Restart Your MacBook
Often, a simple restart can resolve minor software glitches. Follow these steps:
- Click on the Apple logo in the top-left corner of the screen.
- Select “Restart” from the dropdown menu to fix the issue of the MacBook keyboard keys not working.
- Confirm by clicking “Restart” again.
- After the MacBook restarts, check if the keyboard is functioning correctly.
2. Update macOS
Ensuring your macOS is up-to-date can resolve many issues. Here’s how to check for updates:
- Click on the Apple logo in the top-left corner.
- Select “System Preferences.”
- Click on “Software Update.”
- If there is an available update, there will be a button to click “Update Now.”
3. Check Keyboard Settings
Some keys can stop functioning due to improper keyboard configurations. If your logitech wireless keyboard is not working, verify and reset your keyboard settings to resolve the issue.
- Open “System Preferences.”
- Click on “Keyboard.”
- Ensure the “Key Repeat” and “Delay Until Repeat” sliders are set appropriately for MacBook keyboard repair.
- Go to the “Input Sources” tab and confirm that your preferred keyboard layout has been selected.
4. Clean Your Keyboard
This hindrance is due to the accumulation of dust and debris on important operating parts. Clean your keyboard with the following steps:
- Power off your MacBook and disconnect any devices connected to it.
- Place the MacBook at an angle of 75° when holding it.
- With the help of a can of compressed air, clean the keyboard horizontally, starting from left to right.
- Turn the MacBook to the right side and spray once more.
- Do the same with the MacBook titled to the left side to fix the issue of the MacBook keyboard keys not working.
5. Reset the System Management Controller (SMC)
Sometimes, one can solve different hardware-related problems by resetting the SMC. Follow these steps:
- Shut down your MacBook.
- Connect the power cord to the power outlet.
- Simultaneous press of the Shift and Control buttons on the left side of the Mac, the Options button, and the power button.
- Simultaneously, all the keys on the keyboard and the computer’s power button are released.
- Power on your MacBook by pressing the power button.
6. Reset the NVRAM/PRAM
NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random-Access Memory) stores certain settings, and resetting it can fix unresponsive MacBook keys issues:
- Turn off your MacBook.
- Then, turn it on and immediately press and hold the Option + Command + P + R keys.
- Hold the keys for about 20 seconds.
- Release the keys and allow the MacBook to restart.
7. Test in Safe Mode
Booting in Safe Mode can help determine if third-party software is causing the issue:
- Shut down your MacBook.
- Turn it on and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
- Release the Shift key when you see the login window.
- Log in and test the keyboard.
- If the keyboard works in Safe Mode, the issue might be caused by third-party software, which requires professional MacBook keyboard troubleshooting.
8. Use an External Keyboard
Using an external keyboard can help determine if the problem is with the built-in keyboard or the system:
- Connect an external keyboard to your MacBook.
- Test the keys on the external keyboard.
- If the external keyboard works, the issue is likely with the built-in keyboard.
9. Check for Physical Damage
Inspect your MacBook for any signs of physical damage, such as spills or impacts. If you find any, it’s best to contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service provider.
10. Seek Professional Help
If none of the above steps work, it’s time to seek professional help. Visit an Apple Store or an authorized service provider like Vantel for a thorough inspection and apple device repair.
Why is my MacBook keyboard not typing?
Your MacBook keyboard might not work for various reasons, such as dirt, dust, liquid damage, software issues, or hardware problems. To resolve the issue, try cleaning the keyboard, restarting your MacBook, or updating your operating system.
How do I fix unresponsive keys on my MacBook?
To fix the MacBook keyboard keys not working issue, start by cleaning the keyboard with compressed air and a soft cloth. If that doesn’t work, try restarting your MacBook, checking for stuck keys, or running the Apple Diagnostics test to identify the issue and potentially resolve it.
Why are some letters on my Mac keyboard not working?
If some letters on your Mac keyboard are not working, it may be due to debris accumulation, worn-out switches, or hardware issues. Check for dust and dirt under the keys, clean the keyboard, and try restarting your Mac. If problems persist, consider resetting the NVRAM or SMC.
Conclusion
Addressing how to fix MacBook keyboard keys not working will ensure you can diagnose and resolve the problem perfectly. MacBook users can fix the issue by restarting their MacBook, updating macOS, checking keyboard settings, cleaning their keyboard, and resetting the system management controller (SMC). They must also reset the NVRAM/PRAM, test in safe mode, use an external keyboard, check for physical damage, and authorize service providers like Vantel.
