How to Fix a MacBook Keyboard Not Working

A recurring issue some MacBook users face is this: after closing and reopening the lid, the keyboard suddenly stops responding. At first, restarting may temporarily restore functionality, but over time, the keyboard may completely fail.

In this article, I’ll share my own experience, doubts, and possible solutions.

Why Does This Happen?

Many MacBook users still experience keyboard issues after closing and reopening the lid. In earlier years, Apple service providers often replaced the top case (including the keyboard and trackpad) when this problem appeared. However, many users reported that the issue returned even after hardware replacement, suggesting that the root cause is often software or firmware-related rather than the physical keyboard itself.

Even with modern macOS versions like Ventura, Sonoma, and Sequoia (2025), low-level bugs occasionally occur, particularly affecting sleep/wake processes. Apple Support generally recommends resetting NVRAM/SMC (or performing firmware resets on T2/Apple Silicon Macs) and reinstalling macOS, and they rarely attribute the issue to hardware unless there is clear physical damage.

In fact, the first time I brought my MacBook to Apple, the top case was replaced without identifying the underlying problem, and when the same issue recurred, it became clear that the keyboard itself was not the true source of the malfunction.

Alternative Fix (Updated for 2025 Users)

In older guides (around 2016), users were advised to manually delete certain system folders like /Library/LaunchAgents and /Library/LaunchDaemons. However, with modern macOS versions (Ventura, Sonoma, Sequoia), this method is not recommended because of stricter system protections. Instead, here’s a safer and more effective approach in 2025:

1. Restart and Update macOS

Restart your MacBook.

Go to System Settings > General > Software Update and install the latest macOS (Sequoia 15).
Updates often fix sleep/wake bugs that cause keyboard issues.

2. Boot Into Safe Mode

Shut down your Mac.

Restart while holding the Shift key until you see the login screen.

Safe Mode disables third-party extensions and startup agents, which can help isolate the issue.

3. Check Login Items & Extensions

Go to System Settings > General > Login Items & Extensions.

Disable or remove suspicious or unnecessary items (especially apps that load drivers or input managers).

Restart normally and test the keyboard.

4. Reset NVRAM and SMC / Firmware Reset

Intel Macs: Restart, then hold Option + Command + P + R for ~20 seconds on startup. SMC reset varies by model.

Apple Silicon Macs (M1–M4): Shut down → hold Power button until “Options” appear → choose Options > Continue to access recovery, then reset settings from there.

5. Reinstall macOS (If Nothing Else Works)

If the keyboard issue persists, reinstall macOS. This refreshes system files without erasing your data (unless you choose a full wipe).

Specific Keyboard Issues and Fixes

If It’s Hardware-Related

Possible causes: logic board damage, shorted keyboard circuit, or the keyboard itself is broken.

Solution: Take your MacBook to an Apple Store or an authorized repair shop for professional service.

If It’s Software-Related

When the keyboard works in Recovery or on the login screen, it’s usually software-related. Here are some fixes:

Keyboard Completely Unresponsive

Go to System Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard > Hardware.

Turn off Slow Keys.

Many users find that after disabling this setting, the keyboard starts working again.

Number Keys (7, 8, 9) and Letter Keys (U, I, O, J, K, L) Not Working

Go to System Settings > Accessibility > Pointer Control (or Mouse & Trackpad).

Disable Mouse Keys.

After turning this off, the affected keys usually work again.

Caps Lock Light Not Working

Go to System Settings > Keyboard > Input Sources.

Disable the option “Use the Caps Lock key to switch input source.”

Once unchecked, the Caps Lock light should return to normal.

When to Consider Hardware Repair

If none of the software fixes work, or the keyboard fails even in Recovery Mode, the issue may be hardware-related. Possible causes include:

Logic board failure

Keyboard short circuit

Dead keyboard

In this case, professional repair at an Apple Store or authorized service provider is recommended.

Most cases of a MacBook keyboard not working are related to software or firmware rather than hardware failure. Updating macOS, resetting NVRAM/SMC, or managing login items usually resolves the issue.

By following the steps above, the majority of MacBook keyboard issues can be resolved without replacing hardware, saving both time and cost.

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