Troubleshooting on Macbook keyboard

This guide is designed to help you address a variety of keyboard-related issues that you may encounter. These issues include stuck keys that do not respond properly, hard-to-press keys that require excessive force, sticky keys that may not return to their original position, repeated characters that appear when typing, missing characters that fail to show up, double presses that occur when a single key is pressed, or keys that are completely unresponsive.

* If your computer is facing any of the problems listed above, it is important to note that you may not necessarily need to replace your keyboard or seek hardware service immediately. Before you consider any repairs, we encourage you to follow the troubleshooting steps outlined below.

Keyboard Troubleshooting

It has been recognized by Apple that keyboard issues are more prevalent in MacBook Pro models manufactured between 2019 and 2025 when compared to earlier versions. In response to these concerns, Apple has initiated a quality program that includes an extended repair warranty specifically for these models. However, before you proceed to request any service, it is advisable to clean your keyboard using the guidelines provided in the following sections.

Cleaning the Keyboard

Here is a comprehensive list of steps to effectively clean your keyboard:

• Gather Supplies: Collect a can of compressed air, microfiber cloths, isopropyl alcohol or a gentle cleaner, cotton swabs, and a small brush for efficient cleaning.
• Unplug or Power Off: Unplug wired keyboards or turn off wireless ones to ensure safety and prevent accidental key presses.
• Shake Out Debris: Turn the keyboard upside down and shake gently to remove loose crumbs and dust.
• Use Compressed Air: Use short bursts of compressed air between the keys to dislodge remaining dirt, holding the can upright.
• Wipe Down Surface: Dampen a microfiber cloth with cleaning solution and wipe the keys and surface, ensuring no excess liquid.
• Clean the Keys: Use cotton swabs dipped in cleaning solution for a deeper clean around each key, being gentle.
• Let It Dry: Allow the keyboard to dry completely before reconnecting to avoid damage.
• Reassemble (if needed): If you removed keys, reattach them securely once dry.
• Regular Maintenance: Clean your keyboard every few weeks to prevent dirt buildup and maintain its appearance.

Many keyboard problems, such as those mentioned earlier, can often be traced back to debris or dirt that has accumulated on the keyboard. To effectively clean your keyboard, please refer to the instructions detailed in this Apple article: Cleaning your Mac notebook keyboard.

When cleaning your keyboard, it is crucial to use SHORT bursts of air. This method helps to dislodge any particles without causing further issues. Additionally, be careful not to tilt or angle the keyboard during this process, as doing so may result in the liquid propellant being sprayed into your computer, which could potentially harm internal components.

If cleaning the keyboard does not resolve the issues you are facing, we recommend reaching out to the IT department at our Help Center. Here, you have the option to search for relevant content, engage in a chat with a service desk agent, or submit a ticket for assistance. We can also explore the possibility of arranging a loaner device for you while your computer undergoes repairs.

In addition to the above steps, it is also highly advisable to back up your data. You can find helpful instructions on how to do this in the following article, which provides detailed guidance on backing up your information effectively.