Top 10 Most Common MacBook Problems and How to Fix Them

A MacBook is one of the most reliable machines on the market, but even Apple devices can run into issues over time. Whether you use a MacBook for work, study, or creative projects, unexpected problems can slow you down — or completely disrupt your workflow. In this comprehensive guide, we walk you through the 10 most common MacBook problems, their causes, and how to fix them. Plus, we’ll share when it’s best to seek professional repair support.

1. MacBook Battery Draining Too Fast

Why It Happens

  • Too many background apps
  • Aging battery cycles
  • Heavy screen brightness
  • Faulty charger or charging port
  • Software bugs after updates

How to Fix

  • Use Activity Monitor to close power-hungry apps
  • Reduce brightness and turn off Bluetooth/Wi-Fi when not needed
  • Reset SMC (System Management Controller)
  • Update macOS
  • Replace the battery if it’s swollen or has high cycle count

When to Seek Professional Help

If your MacBook battery is swelling, not charging, or draining rapidly even on sleep mode, a technician should inspect it immediately.

2. MacBook Running Slow

Causes

  • Low storage space
  • Too many login/startup items
  • Outdated macOS
  • Malware
  • Failing SSD

Solutions

  • Delete unused apps
  • Clean system cache
  • Remove startup programs
  • Upgrade RAM (for older models)
  • Update to latest macOS

If performance is still poor, your SSD may need replacement.

3. MacBook Overheating

Why It Occurs

  • Dust buildup
  • Faulty cooling fan
  • Heavy multitasking
  • High-intensity apps
  • Thermal paste degradation

Fixes

  • Clean vents and fans
  • Reset SMC
  • Use Activity Monitor to close CPU-heavy apps
  • Use a cooling pad
  • Replace old thermal paste

If overheating persists, professional internal cleaning is recommended.

4. MacBook Not Turning On

Possible Reasons

  • Battery failure
  • Faulty power adaptor
  • Damaged logic board
  • Water damage
  • Software crash

What You Can Try

  • Force restart (press & hold power button)
  • Plug in the charger for 10 minutes
  • Reset SMC
  • Boot in Safe Mode

If there’s no sign of life, a repair shop can check power ICs and the logic board.

5. MacBook Keyboard Not Working

Common Issues

  • Butterfly keyboard failure
  • Sticky keys
  • Liquid damage
  • Software glitches

Fix

  • Use compressed air to clean
  • Update macOS
  • Reset keyboard settings
  • For butterfly keyboards, replacement is often the only fix

Spilled liquid? Turn off the device immediately and seek repair.

6. MacBook Trackpad Not Clicking or Responding

Causes

  • Swollen battery pushing against the trackpad
  • Trackpad flex cable damage
  • Software bug

Fixes

  • Reset SMC
  • Update macOS
  • Replace trackpad cable
  • Replace battery if swollen

Never ignore a swollen battery — it’s a safety hazard.

7. MacBook Screen Flickering or Going Black

Common Causes

  • Flexgate (common in 2016–2018 models)
  • Damaged display cable
  • GPU issues
  • Backlight failure

Solutions

  • Reset NVRAM/PRAM
  • Use external display to test
  • Replace display flex cable
  • Full screen replacement for severe cases

A technician can diagnose the exact cause.

8. MacBook Wi-Fi Not Connecting

Reasons

  • Router issues
  • Network settings corruption
  • macOS glitch
  • Antenna cable damage

Fix

  • Restart both router and Mac
  • Forget and reconnect to Wi-Fi
  • Delete Wi-Fi preferences
  • Reset NVRAM/PRAM

If hardware is damaged, a quick repair can restore connectivity.

9. MacBook Fan Making Loud Noise

Causes

  • Dust buildup
  • Faulty fan motor
  • Heavy background processes

How to Fix

  • Clean fans
  • Close resource-hungry applications
  • Reset SMC
  • Replace noisy fan

If noise continues, internal cleaning is needed.

10. MacBook Audio Not Working

Why It Happens

  • Buggy macOS update
  • Damaged speakers
  • Water damage
  • Audio IC failure

Fix

  • Restart Mac
  • Reset PRAM
  • Check sound settings
  • Remove external audio devices
  • Replace speakers if crackling or distorted

When Should You Visit a Professional MacBook Repair Service?

DIY fixes are helpful, but some issues require expert attention — especially:

  • Water damage
  • Logic board failure
  • Swollen battery
  • Screen damage
  • Unresponsive MacBook
  • Power issues

A certified MacBook repair specialist can provide:

  • Accurate diagnostics
  • Genuine parts
  • Fast turnaround
  • Professional repairs that prevent further damage

Final Thoughts

MacBooks are powerful and reliable machines, but like any device, they can face issues over time. Understanding the most common problems can help you diagnose early warnings and prevent bigger repairs. If your MacBook is showing signs of trouble, it’s always smart to get it checked by professionals before the damage spreads.

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