(Lex Fridman Voice) The following… is my conversation with ChatGPT.
I have a problem with my Macbook Pro. This is a 13-inch early 2015 model that is updated to the latest macOS it supports. It has never been disassembled or otherwise repaired. It has never had any kind of water damage.
Sometimes, after I move the laptop around, its hardware input (keyboard and trackpad) stops being immediately responsive. I can press the button or move fingers around the trackpad, and the system with either respond laggy and with a delay, or it won't respond at all. The system itself works fine and responds immediately if I connect external keyboard and mouse.
Before you say this is hardware fault, consider this: if I move my finger around the trackpad long enough, it will eventually start responding. Or, if I leave the laptop alone for a few hours, it will start responding as well. If this was a hardware fault, then it wouldn't work at all, would it?
I have tried installing another, older macOS version next to my main OS as a dual boot, and both OS have the same issue.
The laptop has never been disassembled. Because I want to keep it that way, I want to exhaust all potential software fixes before I bring it to hardware repair.
I understand your situation and you've done a good job at testing out some of the variables at play here. Given that you've tried different operating systems and the issue persists, it suggests the problem might indeed be hardware-related, even though it doesn't completely prevent your trackpad and keyboard from functioning.
However, before jumping to that conclusion, you can still try the following software and system checks:
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Reset the System Management Controller (SMC): SMC handles many low-level functions on Intel-based Macs, such as battery management, thermal management, and the response of your Mac when you open and close the lid. Here's how to do it on your MacBook Pro:
- Shutdown your Mac.
- Press Shift-Control-Option on the left side of the built-in keyboard, then press the power button at the same time. Hold these keys and the power button for 10 seconds.
- Release all keys.
- Press the power button again to turn on your Mac.
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Reset NVRAM or PRAM: NVRAM (nonvolatile random-access memory) and PRAM (Parameter RAM) store certain settings and access them quickly. Resetting these might help with the issue.
- Shutdown your Mac.
- Turn it on and immediately press and hold these keys: Option, Command, P, and R. You can release the keys after about 20 seconds, during which your Mac might appear to restart.
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Safe Mode: Booting your Mac in Safe Mode will check your startup disk and attempt to repair directory issues, if necessary. Safe mode also prevents startup items and login items from opening automatically.
- Shutdown your Mac.
- Turn it on and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
- Release the Shift key when you see the login window.
If you are still experiencing issues after trying these steps, it's likely that the issue is indeed hardware-related. Remember that "hardware issue" doesn't necessarily mean that the trackpad or keyboard is "broken". It could be as simple as a loose cable that gets disconnected when the laptop moves, and that would explain why the issues disappear after some time of not moving the laptop (gravity helps to put the cable back into place). But to confirm this, a professional would have to open the laptop and check.
Forgot to say that the power button works always. Does that fact make any difference?
The fact that the power button always works is interesting and provides an additional piece of information.
The power button on MacBooks is wired differently than the rest of the keyboard, which is why it may work even when the rest of the keyboard doesn't. Therefore, it doesn't necessarily rule out a hardware issue with the keyboard and trackpad.
However, it does highlight that the issue is not likely related to the overall power supply of the laptop, as the power button needs electricity to function.
That said, the issue you're experiencing may still be related to the connection of the keyboard and trackpad to the main board of your MacBook. This would be consistent with the symptoms you've mentioned - namely that moving the laptop can cause the keyboard and trackpad to become unresponsive, but that they sometimes start working again after a period of time.
Given the situation, I would still recommend trying the steps I've mentioned earlier to see if the problem can be resolved without needing to open up your laptop. If the problem persists after trying those steps, you might need to consult with a professional for a hardware inspection.
I have tried all of the three things mentioned above, and the issue persists.
I'm sorry to hear that none of the software fixes alleviated the problem. This strongly indicates a hardware-related issue.
In many cases, when the keyboard and trackpad become unresponsive on a MacBook, especially after being moved, it can be due to a loose or damaged ribbon cable that connects these hardware components to the logic board. This would explain why they sometimes start working again after a while or after the laptop has been left stationary - the movement or stationary period may allow the cable to make enough contact to function temporarily.
Considering your situation, here are the next steps you can take:
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Option 1 - Apple Support or Authorized Service Provider The safest option would be to bring your laptop to an Apple Store or an authorized service provider. They have trained technicians who can safely open your MacBook, diagnose the problem, and recommend the best course of action.
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Option 2 - Local Repair Shop If you're out of warranty and don't want to pay the typically high prices for Apple repair services, you could try a local computer repair shop. Ensure they have good reviews, especially when it comes to repairing Apple products.
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Option 3 - Do It Yourself This is the riskiest option and not recommended unless you have experience with electronics repair. However, if you decide to go this route, there are plenty of online resources, such as iFixit, with detailed guides on how to safely open your MacBook and what to look for. Make sure you're comfortable with the potential risks before choosing this option.
If you decide to open your MacBook
Remember to disconnect the battery before you start any kind of repair work on your MacBook. Also, use a ESD-safe tool to avoid any static damage. Here's a rough step-by-step guide:
- Disconnect the MacBook from its power source.
- Unscrew and remove the bottom cover.
- Disconnect the battery.
- Locate the keyboard and trackpad connectors on the logic board.
- Carefully unplug and re-plug the connectors, ensuring they are securely seated.
- Clean any dust or debris you see in the area.
- Reconnect the battery and reassemble the MacBook.
Always follow a detailed guide from a reputable source when attempting this kind of repair. Remember that opening your MacBook will void any warranty that it might have.
No matter which route you choose, remember to backup all important data before handing over your laptop to anyone or attempting to open it yourself. In the worst-case scenario, if the device can't be repaired, at least your data will be safe.
To add to the above, here is a good video walkthrough on how to actually replace the cable, which addresses a few gotchas: Macbook Pro 13" 2015 A1502 NO Trackpad & Keyboard Fix repair Guide
If you want to buy the replacement cable, the spare part you're looking for is called 821-00184. Avoid sketchy chineese websites. I will buy mine from Rossmann Repair Group: 821-00184-A trackpad cable for 13" A1502 2015 Retina Macbook Pro.
(I am not affiliated with them. I have simply been a subscriber of Louis Rossmann for almost 10 years and I support his push for the right to repair. Check out his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@rossmanngroup.)