Trackpad not working on a MacBook? MacBook trackpad glitching? Well, even the most reliable devices can occasionally throw a curveball, and MacBook trackpad issues are no exception. Whether you own a MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, or any other Apple laptop, trackpad malfunctions can disrupt your workflow and leave you feeling stuck.
But before you start panicking or consider booking a costly trip to the nearest Apple Store, take a deep breath and keep reading. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of diagnosing and fixing the most common trackpad problems on your MacBook. From unresponsive trackpads to erratic cursor movements, we’ll cover it all, empowering you to regain control of your device.
So, if you’re ready to bid farewell to trackpad troubles and get back to seamless scrolling, clicking, and multitasking on your MacBook, let’s dive into the solutions for MacBook touchpad not working that will have you navigating smoothly in no time.
Also Read: 8 Amazing MacBook Trackpad Gestures to Make Your Work Easy and Fun
Why Is My MacBook Trackpad Not Working?
A non-functional MacBook Trackpad can completely ruin your experience. Before, we dive into the various ways to fix the issues let’s have a look at some of the common reasons why this issue may surface in the first place –
- Your TrackPad itself is to be blamed. This means it could be a hardware-related issue.
- You recently downloaded an application that is interfering with the functionality of your trackpad.
- It could be that you have tweaked some settings because of which you are unable to use your MacBook’s trackpad.
- Your Mac is in dire need of an update.
How to Fix the Trackpad Not Working Issue on MacBook?
Solution 1: Update macOS
If your MacBook’s trackpad isn’t working, start by making sure your operating system is up to date. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner.
Step 2: Choose “About This Mac” to check your macOS version.
Step 3: Open “System Preferences” and click “Software Update.”
Step 4: If updates are available, click “Update Now” and follow the instructions.
After updating, restart your MacBook and check if the trackpad is functioning correctly.
Updating macOS can often fix MacBook trackpad not clicking issues caused by software glitches or compatibility problems. If the problem persists, we’ll explore other solutions.
Solution 2: Toggle OFF Force Click
Is the MacBook trackpad not clicking? Well, sometimes, a trackpad issue can be related to the Force Click feature. To check if this is the cause and potentially resolve the problem, follow these steps:
Step 1: Go to “System Preferences” from the Apple menu. Click on “Trackpad.”
Step 2: In the Trackpad settings, locate the “Force Click and haptic feedback” option.
Step 3: Uncheck the “Force Click and haptic feedback” checkbox.
Step 4: Test your trackpad to see if it’s now working correctly.
Disabling “Force Click” can resolve trackpad problems, especially if accidental force clicks are causing issues. If this doesn’t solve the problem, let’s move on to the next solution.
Also Read: How To Fix The Most Common macOS 11 Big Sur Issues
Solution 3: Reset Trackpad
Is the trackpad not working on MacBook? When your MacBook’s trackpad misbehaves, resetting it can often do the trick. Here’s how you can reset your trackpad:
Step 1: Go to “System Preferences” from the Apple menu. Click on “Trackpad.”
Step 2: In the Trackpad settings, find and click on the “Point & Click” tab.
Step 3: Ensure that the “Tap to click” option is unchecked.
Step 4: In the “Scroll & Zoom” section, confirm that “Scroll direction: Natural” is enabled.
Adjusting these two settings will reset your trackpad to its default configuration.
Now, check your trackpad to see if it’s working correctly now. This reset option can help resolve minor software-related trackpad issues. If the problem persists after resetting, we’ll explore more advanced solutions.
Also Read: How To Fix Mac Mouse Not Working Issue
Solution 4: Delete Recently Installed Apps
If your MacBook trackpad is not working after installing any new app and your Mac has gone out of sync, it is advised that you uninstall or delete these new apps.
For this, you can use Launchpad or Finder.
With Launchpad, click on its icon and place the cursor on the app that needs to be deleted. Press and hold the icon until it starts to shake while hitting the delete button.
With Finder, click on the application, find the app you are willing to delete and drag it to the trash. Here, go to Finder and empty trash to permanently remove the app.
And if you wish to pass through all of it, just download Cleanup My System from the download button given below. This smart tool takes care of junk, cache, trash, and privacy at one end providing Uninstaller at another. You do not need to search apps one by one through the above methods as Cleanup My System will help you with all of it. Get Cleanup My System from the Mac App Store now and then run the application. Go to the Uninstall Manager module and run the scan to view all of the installed applications. Now remove one or more applications directly from the app along with its related files.
Solution 5: Reset The Mac SMC
Resetting System Management Controller (SMC) is one of the best ways to fix major kinds of hardware and power-related issues. Now here come methods to remove the battery, be it removable or non-removable one.
Removable Battery:
For this, turn off your Mac completely, to begin with, and after this, you just need to remove the adapter or power connection. Open the Mac and remove the battery very carefully. With this, press and hold the power button for a few seconds. The PC will itself discharge and the SMC will be reset.
Once done, place back the battery in the Mac and connect the power source and check if the touchpad is now working.
Non-Removable battery:
New MacBook usually does not possess removable batteries and this case is pretty different from the above method. Shut down your Mac and connect it with the power source. Now hold Shift + Control + Option + Power button, all at the same time. Your SMC will reset automatically.
Open the Mac and see if the touchpad is working.
Fix 6: Reset The PRAM
This is another effective method to follow when the MacBook trackpad is not clicking.
For this, turn off the Mac completely. After this, press & hold Command + Options + P & R button from the keyboard for around 8-10 seconds. Turn on the Mac, see the gray screen and release all the keys.
You will hear 2 booting sounds which mean PRAM resetting is done.
Solution 7: Consider Erasing The property Files
Still, left with the issue of the MacBook trackpad not working? No worries, you can step on this next step. This property list contains preference files related to software and application bundles stored on MacBook.
Before doing so, make sure to take a backup of everything on Mac. You can do this by using the in-built Time machine.
Let’s see how to erase the property files or property list(plist).
Step 1: Open Finder > Go > Go to folder > type /Library/Preferences. Click Go.
Step 2: as many files unfold, just select where trackpad & mouse is written. Delete the files that you think are not required. It includes:
- apple.driver.AppleBluetoothMultitouch.trackpad.plist – Magic Trackpad
- apple.driver.AppleBluetoothMultitouch.mouse.plist – Magic Mouse
- apple.driver.AppleHIDMouse.plist – wired USB mouse.
- apple.AppleMultitouchTrackpad.plist
- apple.preference.trackpad.plist
Step 3: Reboot your MacBook.
Solution 8: Run Apple Diagnostics
Here comes the last resort to fix the trackpad not working on MacBook issue. If your MacBook’s trackpad problems persist, it’s a good idea to run Apple Diagnostics to identify any hardware issues. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Disconnect all external devices from your MacBook, except for the power adapter if you’re using one.
Step 2: Shut down your MacBook completely.
Step 3: Turn it on, and immediately press and hold the “D” key on your keyboard. Keep holding it until you see the Apple Diagnostics screen.
Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the diagnostic test. This process will take a few minutes.
Step 5: Once the test is complete, Apple Diagnostics will display a summary of the results. It will indicate whether any hardware issues were found.
If Apple Diagnostics detects a hardware problem, it’s recommended to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for further assistance.
However, if no hardware issues are detected, the problem may still be related to software or settings. In that case, you may need to explore additional software troubleshooting steps or consult Apple Support for further guidance.
By following these five solutions, you’ll have a good chance of resolving the Apple trackpad not connecting issues on your MacBook and getting back to smooth and effortless navigation. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance to ensure your MacBook is functioning at its best.
Also Read: 7 Best Auto Clickers for Mac in 2023
Conclusion
From updating your macOS to disabling Force Click, resetting your trackpad settings, and even running Apple Diagnostics, we’ve covered a range of troubleshooting steps to help you overcome trackpad not working on MacBook issues. These solutions, while simple, can work wonders in restoring your MacBook’s trackpad functionality.
Remember that technology can be complex, and sometimes issues may require professional attention. If none of the solutions provided here resolve your trackpad woes, don’t hesitate to reach out to Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for expert assistance.
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