how to repair mac keyboard

by Prof. Merle Barrows Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago

How to fix a MacBook keyboard or MacBook Pro keyboard

Clean your keyboard. As we’ve mentioned, dust and other debris could seriously mess with your keyboard, usually causing issues with certain keys sticking and not registering hits.
Delete recently installed apps. ...
Update macOS. ...
Check keyboard layout. ...
Turn off Slow Keys. ...
Delete .plist files. ...
Reset PRAM. ...
Restore your Mac to an earlier version. ...

Full Answer

Why is my Mac keyboard not working?

The most common reasons a MacBook keyboard stops working include:

Dust and other contaminants
Incorrect software settings
Problematic apps
Bugs and glitches
Broken hardware

What to do if your MacBook keyboard is not working?

Try these fixes

Method 1: Update your macOS. Your keyboard may not be working because your operating system is not up to date. ...
Method 2: Reset the SMC. ...
Method 3: Clean system junk. ...
Method 4: Clean your keyboard. ...
Method 5: Have your MacBook Air serviced. ...

How to fix keyboard issues on a Mac?

How to fix a MacBook keyboard or MacBook Pro keyboard

Clean your keyboard. As we’ve mentioned, dust and other debris could seriously mess with your keyboard, usually causing issues with certain keys sticking and not registering hits.
Delete recently installed apps. ...
Update macOS. ...
Check keyboard layout. ...
Turn off Slow Keys. ...
Delete .plist files. ...
Reset PRAM. ...
Restore your Mac to an earlier version. ...

How to fix Mac keyboard keys that have fallen off?

Method 2 Method 2 of 2: Desktop Mechanical Keyboards

Look under the key to make sure it is intact. If you have a mechanical keyboard, as is common with many gaming PCs, reattaching the key is pretty easy.
Check to make sure the plunger is intact. Look at the square space where the key will fit back onto the keyboard.
Align the key with the base and plunger. ...

More items...

Can Mac keyboards be repaired?

Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider will service eligible MacBook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro keyboards, free of charge. The type of service will be determined after the keyboard is examined and may involve the replacement of one or more keys or the whole keyboard.

How do you fix MacBook keyboard keys not working?

How to Fix a MacBook Pro Keyboard That Isn't WorkingClean the keyboard. ... Plug in the MacBook. ... Check for updates. ... Remove recent apps. ... Restart the Touch Bar. ... Turn off Slow Keys. ... Turn off Mouse Keys. ... Check the keyboard layout setting.More items...•

How do I fix my Apple keyboard keys?

1:0219:26Apple Wireless Keyboard Repair: Remove, Clean and Install Every ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipKeys you're going to attack it from the bottom just pry your toothpick underneath the key you'reMoreKeys you're going to attack it from the bottom just pry your toothpick underneath the key you're going to have to get in between the x switch put a little bit of pressure on the right side of the key.

How do I fix unresponsive keyboard keys?

Here's how to fix unresponsive keyboard keys:Unplug the keyboard and plug it back in. ... Try a different cable. ... Replace the batteries. ... Clean the keyboard. ... Blow out the unresponsive switch. ... Use contact cleaner. ... Inspect the solder joints. ... Replace the switch.More items...•

How do I reset my Mac keyboard?

Shut down your MacBook. Plug in your MagSafe adapter. Press and hold down Shift + Control + Option + the power button. If your MagSage adapter changes color, you've reset the SMC....If your MacBook has a removable battery:Shut down the MacBook.Remove your battery and MagSage adapter.Hold the power button for 10 seconds.

Why keyboard suddenly Cannot type?

Your keyboard doesn't type since the keyboard or the system you are running gets stuck somehow. You can try restarting it since a simple restart can fix some issues. If you are using Windows 10/11, go to the Start button, press the power icon, and choose Restart to reboot the PC.

How do you fix keyboard typing wrong characters?

Fixes to try:Disable Numlock.Switch between your active keyboard layouts.Run the keyboard troubleshooter.Update your keyboard driver.Check for Windows updates.Reconnect your keyboard to your computer.

How do you unstick Apple wireless keyboard keys?

1:1313:58How to Remove and Clean Sticky Keys on Apple Magic Keyboard 2 ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBy pressing. And feeling crunch.MoreBy pressing. And feeling crunch.

How do you fix keys on a keyboard?

Fixing a loose keycap If the keycap is loose but still attached to the laptop, it can often be fixed by pressing down on the keycap. If the keycap re-attaches, a snap while pressing the key down is heard. If this does not fix the issue, we suggest removing the key so it can be re-attached.

Why are some keys on my keyboard not working?

If only certain keys on your Mac keyboard aren’t working, it could be because they’re damaged or dirty. You might have also enabled an option or ap...

How do I make my Apple wireless keyboard discoverable?

To put an Apple Magic Keyboard into pairing mode: Connect it to your Mac with a Lightning to USB cable Make sure the keyboard’s power switch is on...

What should I do if my keyboard backlight isn’t turning on?

Although it’s possible the LEDs in your keyboard could be damaged, it’s likely caused by your settings. As well as following Apple’s official guida...

How to fix USB keyboard on Mac?

Sometimes, you can fix a USB Mac keyboard problem just by unplugging it and then plugging it back in again. You should also check to see your USB ports are working okay. Unplug your keyboard, and then plug something else into that port, like your mouse. If it works, then the USB port is probably fine.

How to get keyboard to work on MacBook?

Hold your MacBook or Mac keyboard vertically, preferably at a 75º angle. Using a can of compressed air, spray the keyboard or the non-functioning keys. Then move in a left-to-right direction. Rotate your MacBook or keyboard to its right and then left side. Repeat the action.

How to reset SMC on MacBook?

How to reset the SMC for MacBooks with T2 chip: Turn off your MacBook. Hold down Ctl + Opt on the left side of your keyboard and Shift on the right side. Keep them held down for seven seconds, then press and hold the power button too. After another seven seconds, release all keys.

Why isn't my keyboard working on my MacBook?

When certain Mac keyboard keys aren’t working, it could be caused by dust and other junk underneath them. This is likely if you have a habit of eating while using your Mac. Cleaning out under the keys could solve the problem. Hold your MacBook or Mac keyboard vertically, preferably at a 75º angle.

What does SMC stand for on Mac?

Reset your SMC. SMC stands for System Management Controller. It controls certain low-functions of certain Macs, some of which relate to the keyboard. So if your Mac keyboard has stopped working, it’s a good idea to reset it.

Why does my Mac keyboard stop working?

But sometimes Mac keyboards stop working because they’re broken beyond repair. They can be permanently damaged by liquids, for example. And they can also just wear out over time, particularly if you hit the keys hard when you type. Try your keyboard on a different computer, if you can.

What to do if your wireless keyboard won't turn on?

If your wireless Apple keyboard isn’t turning on, try replacing the batteries, if possible. But if you’re using something like the newer Apple Magic keyboard, which has a built-in battery, check it’s charged. Also, try using a different charging cable and a different USB port on your Mac.

How to fix keyboard on Mac?

Try logging out and logging back into a different account on your Mac (this assumes the mouse is functional even if the keyboard isn’t). If doing this solves the keyboard problem, you need to remove and reinstall the keyboard. Log back into your own account and go to System Preferences then Bluetooth. You should be able to see your keyboard under Devices. Control-Click and then select Remove. Go to System Preferences, Keyboard and Set Up Bluetooth Keyboard.

How to disconnect keyboard from Mac?

Is it a connection problem? Disconnect your keyboard from your Mac by taking out and putting back either the USB connector or the USB cable (depending on your type of keyboard connection).

Why isn't my number key working on my Mac?

If only the number keys aren’t working on your Mac keyboard, it is possible that Mouse Keys is turned on – this is an accessibility function which uses number keys to control the Mac cursor, and you may have accidentally switched it on. To turn it off, the first thing to try is a multiple press of the Option key – pressing it 5 times is a short cut for turning Mouse Keys off and on, so do this and then to avoid switching it on again:

What to do if your keyboard light isn't showing?

If the light isn’t showing and you can’t switch the keyboard on, the batteries may be dead, so open the circular cover on the left hand side using a small coin, take out the old batteries and replace them with 2 new AA sized batteries.

How many times do you press the option key?

You should see Press The Option Key Five Times to Toggle Mouse Keys – deselect this then click OK.

Do batteries need changing on a keyboard?

Do the batteries need changing? If the light isn’t showing and you can’t switch the keyboard on, the batteries may be dead, so open the circular cover on the left hand side using a small coin, take out the old batteries and replace them with 2 new AA sized batteries. When you re-fit the cover and switch the keyboard on, you should now see a green light.

How to Fix Mac Keyboard Not Working With These Easy Steps?

So when your keyboard becomes unresponsive, or some keys stop working, you're only left with a few things you can do with the computer.

Why is my keyboard not working on my Mac?

Another reason can be the Slow Keys feature. If it's turned on, you might mistake your keyboard not working as it takes longer for your Mac to register the pressed keys.

How to connect a Bluetooth keyboard to a Mac?

First, check if Bluetooth is working. 1. Click on the Apple logo and go to " System Preferences ". 2. Then, go to " Bluetooth " settings. 3. Check if Bluetooth is turned on and if the keyboard is connected. If the keyboard is connected with a cable, connect it to another USB port on your Mac.

How to get rid of food crumbs on MacBook?

If the keyboard is built-in, turn off your MacBook. 3. Tilt the keyboard so that the food crumbs and dust will fall out from the keyboard key cracks when spaying with air. 3. Now, take the compressed air spray and spray the air on the keyboard from left to right. Use it only on the right half of the keyboard.

Why is my keyboard not responding?

When your keyboard becomes unresponsive, a few common issues might be the culprit. A lot of the time, dust and debris accumulate under the keyboard keys. The small particles can prevent the keys from pressing, which doesn't allow the keys to register.

What happens if my keyboard is plugged into a different USB port?

If the keyboard works when plugged into a different USB port, then the previous USB port is most likely damaged.

How to clean a built in keyboard?

To clean an external or a built-in keyboard, follow the steps below: 1. Get a compressed air spray with a straw to limit the airflow. 2. If the keyboard is external, disconnect the keyboard from Bluetooth or unplug it from the port on your Mac. If the keyboard is built-in, turn off your MacBook.

How long does the MacBook Air warranty last?

The program covers eligible MacBook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro models for 4 years after the first retail sale of the unit.

Does MacBook Air have keyboard service?

Keyboard Service Program for MacBook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro. Apple has determined that a small percentage of the keyboards in certain MacBook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro models may exhibit one or more of the following behaviors: Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider will service eligible MacBook, MacBook Air, ...

Can a Mac notebook be examined?

Please choose one of the options below for service. Your Mac notebook will be examined prior to any service to verify that it is eligible for this program .

Does Apple extend warranty on MacBook?

This worldwide Apple program does not extend the standard warranty coverage of your Mac notebook. If you believe your Mac notebook was affected by this issue, and you paid to have your keyboard repaired, you can contact Apple about a refund. The program covers eligible MacBook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro models for 4 years after ...

Does Apple provide keyboard service?

Does MacBook Air need to be repaired?

Note: If your MacBook, MacBook Air, or MacBook Pro has any damage which impairs the service, that issue will need to be repaired first. In some cases, there may be a cost associated with the repair.

How to replace a keyboard bracket?

In order to replace the bracket you need to identify how it sits in the metal areas on the keyboard. You should be able to snap the different arms of the bracket into place, laying the bracket flush with the keyboard. Once the bracket snaps into place, you should be able to then press the keycap back down and hear it snap into place as well.

How do Apple keyboard caps work?

The main way most Apple keyboard caps connect is with a little plastic bracket that clips into the key. If this bracket is intact and has no pieces missing from it, it will likely be able to be clipped back into position. If your clip is damaged however, you will likely need to get a replacement keycap and/or clip.

How to tell if a keycap is intact?

If the clip appears to be intact, you just need to investigate the place the actual keycap sits. There should be a little rubber nub that appears from the base of the keyboard where your cap will come into contact. If this rubber piece is intact, your cap replacement should make the key work again properly.

Can you fix a keyboard on a Mac?

At some point you’ll find that you Mac keyboard keys fall off, or that a kid pulls them off. Whether accidental or intentional, you may be able to fix it on your own. When this happens, the keyboard may need to be repaired or replaced at the Apple Store yet you can still attempt to fix it yourself at home before you make the trip.

Can you repair a key cap yourself?

If it does indeed appear to be a clean break and there is no damage to any of the components , you can likely repair the key cap yourself. In order to do this you may need a small flathead screwdriver or a paper clip. You essentially will want to replace the bracket and then the cap.

Can you fix a keycap on an Apple keyboard?

If you are not able to fix the keycap back onto the keyboard, you may indeed need to take it to an Apple Store to get fixed or replaced. Depending on the store’s resources, they may be able to replace the keycap and bracket for you.

When did Apple release its wireless keyboard?

In 2007, Apple released the first of its contemporary line of keyboards, featuring a slimmer design, with an aluminum body and thinner keys. This “Apple Wireless Keyboard” was the first to integrate Apple’s specific function keys, such as media and brightness controls.

When did the first iMac come out?

The release of the first iMac in 1998 marked the transition from the use of ADB to USB in Apple’s peripheral offerings. These keyboards were released in a variety of colors throughout the years, using translucent plastics in black, bronze, and white.

Does the iPad Pro have a USB C keyboard?

As of 2020, Apple has released a newer Magic Keyboard marketed specifically for the iPad Pro which uses a USB-C charging port.

Does the Apple II have a keyboard?

Apple has designed keyboards around its line of computers since the inception of the Apple line through the reign of the Macintosh. Although the first Apple computer was sold as a bare PCB without the inclusion of a keyboard, the 1977 Apple II included a keyboard built into the case of the computer, while the Apple III saw the addition ...