Around 12.37% of people in the globe use MacBook. However, when they malfunction, it brings huge panic. One of the common issues is the malfunctioning of the trackpad and keyboard in a MacBook Pro. The trackpad (also known as the touchpad or glidepad) and keyboard connect to the logic board but not to one another. If your touchpad and keyboard also give you trouble simultaneously, you don’t need to worry!
Here is a guide to help resolve various MacBook keyboard and trackpad issues in situations like post-login, after battery replacement, sleep, button functionality, updates, and liquid spills. For expert assistance, consider professional MacBook repair services.
4 Tips To Fix The Keyboard and Trackpad Not Working Issue After Login
If your touchpad and keyboard function normally during the login process but don’t respond later, there’s probably a software problem. To determine whether the problem still exists, try starting your MacBook in Safe Mode. This procedure may help in finding any program problems that can cause the issue by loading only the necessary system software. Additionally, check if the trackpad is physically clicking or if there is any issue with its responsiveness.
1. Reboot in Safe Mode
To restart your MacBook in Safe Mode, follow these steps:
- Go to the Apple menu to start, then select Shut Down.
- Hold down the power button until the screen reads “Loading startup options” after your device has completely shut down.
- Select the option to Continue in Safe Mode while holding down the Shift key after selecting a volume choice (often Macintosh HD). The system will resume on its own.
- Notice the term “Safe Boot” on the menu bar when the login window appears.
- Verify that your trackpad and keyboard are operational right now.
2. Reset the SMC and NVRAM/PRAM
A Mac has PRAM (Parameter Random Access Memory), a small portion of RAM, to store and rapidly retrieve particular settings. Among other system settings, they include speaker volume, screen resolution, starting disk choice, and information on recent kernel panics. Similar to PRAM, your Mac stores frequently accessed settings in NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory), another form of memory. But when you shut down your Mac, the saved data is not erased.
The SMC (System Management Controller) chip regulates many hardware functions, including battery charging, sleep and wake cycles, hibernation, power and temperature management, and LED lights. It also helps sense ambient light, change the keyboard’s illumination, and react to the Mac laptop lid opening and shutting. Let’s learn how to reset the NVRAM/PRAM and SMC to fix your MacBook Pro’s non-functioning keyboard and trackpad.
3. Resetting PRAM/NVRAM
You can reset PRAM and NVRAM in the same way. Here’s how to reset a Mac’s PRAM/NVRAM:
- Put your Mac to sleep and unplug any USB devices—wired keyboards excluded.
- Press the power button, as it might turn on the Mac
- Press and hold Option, Command, P, and R right away.
- Press and hold these keys until the starting sound plays twice. You will notice that the Apple logo appears and disappears twice on Macs without a starting sound.
- Give the keys up and let your Mac boot up normally.
4. Resetting SMC
- Shut down your MacBook Pro.
- Holding down the power button for ten seconds.
- Restart your Mac after a little while.
- Shut down your Mac once again if it doesn’t resolve the problem.
- Give it a minute after unplugging the power cord.
- Give it five seconds after reconnecting the power cord.
Ways To Fix The Keyboard and Trackpad Not Working Issue After Sleep
If your MacBook’s keyboard, touchpad, or screen isn’t working after startup, it could be due to minor software bugs or power management settings. Try an SMC reset by following the provided steps. Additionally, reboot your device or perform a PRAM (Parameter Random Access Memory) reset to address minor software issues.
However, certain system settings on your Mac can be restored to their original state by resetting either the PRAM or the NVRAM. It is necessary to manually reset these preferences if you’re experiencing issues related to them. Because they’re stored in a small amount of memory that isn’t removed when your computer is shut down or restarted.
Fixing The MacBook Keyboard and Trackpad If They’re Not Working After an Update
If your MacBook’s trackpad and keyboard encounter issues, like keys not working, after a software upgrade, it might be due to new bugs. Troubleshooting methods, such as restarting in Safe Mode, could help resolve the problem. Follow the outlined instructions for a potential solution.
Fix The MacBook Pro Keyboard and Trackpad, After Battery Replacement
If your MacBook won’t turn on after the battery drain, consider that replacement processes may impact internal connections. Loose or broken keyboard and trackpad connections during battery replacement could be the issue. Seek professional assistance to recheck and address potential problems.
Fixing The MacBook Pro Keyboard and Trackpad Not Working After a Spill
Remove any connected devices and switch off your MacBook immediately if it becomes wet. This lowers the chance of short circuits, which can cause more serious damage. Next, use a soft, absorbent cloth to gently blot (not wipe) the spilt liquid to remove as much of it as possible. If the spill was large, you should think about getting expert assistance right away. If liquids get inside your MacBook Pro’s internal components, they might seriously harm the device. The longer the liquid is within, the more harm it could do.
After a spill, even if your keyboard and glidepad appear to be in good working order, there can be hidden damage that could cause issues later on. Keep your MacBook Pro upside down in an “A” shape to let any more liquid drain out if you cannot receive expert assistance immediately. Turn it off and leave it this way for at least 48 hours.
Why is my MacBook Pro keyboard suddenly not working?
When a wireless Mac keyboard stops functioning, it’s usually the result of a simple issue you can resolve. Make sure it is charged and turned on first. Next, clean your keyboard. Lastly, confirm that you are using the latest macOS version; if not, install it.
Can I repair the laptop trackpad?
You can fix a Windows 10 laptop’s defective touchpad using several methods, most of which don’t need hardware fixes. If your touchpad isn’t working, it’s likely that you disabled it using a Windows keyboard shortcut.
How do I run touchpad diagnostics?
When starting your computer, use the F12 key to initiate a thorough system scan. Then, use the arrow keys to navigate to Diagnostics. Press Enter to start the scan. Then, use the touchpad to see whether the cursor is moving erratically. Press the Escape key to end the default testing.
Conclusion
Both hardware and software problems can cause the keyboard and trackpad on your MacBook Pro to stop working. You can follow the basic troubleshooting steps, such as device restarts or SMC resets. Furthermore, you can get expert advice from Tech Zones if problems exist. Remember that the best method to avoid these problems is regular maintenance of your MacBook Pro.
