Troubleshooting Your Malfunctioning MacBook Trackpad: A Step-by-Step Guide
tutorial on rectifying MacBook trackpad problems
When your MacBook trackpad isn't cooperating, fret not! Try these straightforward tips to get that bad boy back in action without breaking the bank. Here's the lowdown on how to get your trackpad working like a charm again.
9 Simple Solutions for a Stubborn Trackpad
1. Reboot the Device
- Shut down all applications.
- Hold the power button until the screen reads "Power Off."
- Press Enter, turn off, then turn the MacBook back on.
2. Cleaning the Trackpad
- Moisten a cloth with water, and gently wipe the trackpad surface.
- For heavy dirt, use a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution.
3. Disconnect Peripherals
- Power down headphones, speakers, printer, and other peripherals.
- Press the Apple symbol, choose Special Features, Pointer Control, and Motor. Uncheck the box next to "Ignore trackpad when the mouse is connected."
4. Reset Settings and Delete Files
- To restore default settings, click the Apple symbol, scroll to Scroll and Zoom, and uncheck "Click to click."
- Check the box for "Scroll direction: natural."
- Delete files that begin with "com.apple." and:
- AppleMultitouchTrackpad.plist;
- preference.trackpad.plist;
- driver.AppleHIDMouse.plist;
- driver.AppleBluetoothMultitouch.trackpad.plist;
- driver.AppleBluetoothMultitouch.mouse.plist.
- In the Finder, press Command+Shift+G, type ~/library/preferences/, and hit Enter.
5. Uninstalling or Updating Drivers
- Update the external device drivers to the latest version.
- Check if the trackpad is now working.
- If no improvements, remove the drivers and reboot the computer.
6. Reset PRAM or VRAM
- Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds.
- Release it, and wait for the MacBook to shut off.
- Restart your MacBook.
- Press Option, Command, P, and R until you hear a boot sound or the Apple icon appears.
7. Reset SMC for Intel-based MacBooks
- Unplug the MacBook from the power source.
- After 15-20 seconds, press Shift, Control, Option, and the power button until the boot process starts.
8. Upgrade MacOS
- Install updates by clicking the Apple icon, clicking "Software Update," and following the prompts.
9. Reinstall macOS
- Turn off your MacBook.
- Press the Power button and Command+R until the Apple logo appears.
- When prompted, enter the firmware password, select "Reinstall," and follow the on-screen instructions.
If none of these fixes work, consult a technician, who may need to replace the trackpad. Happy troubleshooting, MacBook master!
Your MacBook's lifestyle might benefit from exploring home-and-garden solutions, such as cleaning the trackpad with a damp cloth or 70% isopropyl alcohol solution, as a part of maintaining your technology devices. Alternatively, you could delve into technology-related repairs by updating or reinstalling your MacOS to alleviate trackpad malfunctions.
