It is absolutely an irritating situation when your MacBook trackpad stops working. As it simply prevents you from using your MacBook. So the question is how to fix the MacBook trackpad not working?
Well, in this article, I will be answering this question only. I will be talking about some troubleshooting methods that will help you to fix the issue by yourself only.
So here we go.
Contents
How to Fix MacBook Trackpad Not Working?
1. Check for macOS Updates
One of the first things that you should do is check for macOS updates. As there is a high chance that you are not using the latest version of the operating system, firmware, and drivers. As a result, your MacBook is facing issues while working with the trackpad. So by updating drivers and OS, you can fix the issue pretty easily.
To check for available updates, go to App Store and click on the updates tab from the top. Over here, do look if you have any updates available or not. Also, check for an update called trackpad firmware update or similar.
In case if you do get to see something like this, hit the update button and follow all the screen instructions.[quads id=3]
2. Reset SMC
SMC or System Management Controller is responsible for many low-level functions on your MacBook. And this could be the main culprit why your MacBook trackpad is not working. So by resetting it, there is a possible chance that you might be able to fix the issue.
To reset SMC, shut down your MacBook. Then hold down the Ctrl + Option + Shift from your built-in keyboard, then press and hold down the power button.
You have to hold down the buttons for like ten seconds. And after that, release buttons and press the power button to turn on your MacBook. Also, check out Mouse Cursor Disappears on Mac? Here is How to Fix!
3. Reset PRAM/NVRAM
The next thing that you can try out is to reset PRAM/NVRAM. Depending on what MacBook you have, you will have either PRAM (parameter RAM) or NVRAM (non-volatile RAM).
Both of them serve the same purpose, so there is no need for you to get confused about it. To reset any of these two, do follow these steps:
At first, shut down your Mac.
Then press Option + Command + P + R. you have to hold down these keys for at least 20 secs.
Also, on many MacBooks, you will need to release the keys after you get to hear the startup sound for a second time. But for the newer MacBooks that come with the T2 security chip, you will need to release the keys after the Apple logo appears for the second time.
4. Delete Trackpad Property List Files
You can also try deleting trackpad property list files. As there is a high chance that a rough property list or “.plist” file could be the main culprit behind the MacBook trackpad, not working issues.
So by deleting the property list files, the issue can be resolved pretty easily. Also, there are only two files that need to be deleted.
For this, you have to go to Finder, then open the Go menu and click on the Go To folder. Over here, type down “Library/Preferences,” then click Go.
Now you will need to look for the below files:
- com.apple.AppleMultitouchTrackpad.plist
- com.apple.preference.trackpad.plist
If you do find the files, delete them and restart your MacBook. Then check if your MacBook trackpad is working or not.
5. Go To Apple Service Center
In case if the above methods did not work for you, then sorry to say there is nothing much you can do except visiting the Apple service center.
However, in case if your MacBook is under warranty, you should not worry much about the repairing cost. Apple would fix it free of cost for you.
But if you are out of warranty, then you might have to face a hefty repairing charge. But you can always use an external wireless mouse for MacBook to continue using your MacBook.
Final Words:
So that was a quick answer to your how to fix the MacBook trackpad not working issue. Now go ahead and try out the methods by yourself and see if they are working for you or not. Also, if there is anything you would like to ask, then do comment below.
