If your MacBook Pro trackpad is giving you trouble, you’re not the only one. People with different models have reported problems like the cursor moving weirdly, clicks not working, and even unintended gestures. This can happen whether you have a MacBook Air from 2020 or a MacBook Pro from 2016. Knowing what could be wrong and how to fix it might keep you from needing to visit the Apple store.
After updating to Big Sur, some users find their trackpads acting up. But there’s hope. You can try changing the Double Click speed or turning off the trackpad when using external devices. Our detailed guide covers various fixes, from cleaning your MacBook to resetting its software and SMC. Dive into this guide to find solutions for your MacBook’s trackpad issues right away!
Common Signs of MacBook Trackpad Issues
Having issues with your MacBook trackpad is annoying and can mess up your work flow. It’s important to know the usual signs of trouble. This knowledge lets you fix problems better.
Erratic Cursor Movements
One big issue is when the cursor moves weirdly. If your cursor jumps or moves by itself, there might be a problem. This could be due to dirt, a buggy macOS, or issues with some software.
Unresponsive Trackpad Clicks
It’s a problem when your trackpad won’t click or is hit-and-miss. This makes getting around on your MacBook hard. Bad electronic parts or needing a reset might be why.
Accidental Gestures or Zooming
Unwanted gestures or zooming is another hint your trackpad is not right. It can cause files or tabs to open or close by themselves. Software bugs or dust might be causing this.
To fix these problems, try cleaning the trackpad or updating macOS. Running Apple Diagnostics or removing conflicting devices might also help. Knowing these signs helps fix your trackpad fast.
Initial Steps to Diagnose Your MacBook Trackpad Problem
If your MacBook’s trackpad isn’t working right, start with some easy steps to figure out the problem. By checking things step by step, you might find a simple solution. This will save you time and effort in fixing your trackpad.
Turn Off and On Trackpad Shortcuts
A quick fix may involve the trackpad’s shortcuts. Switching them off and on again can reset the system. Go to System Preferences, choose Trackpad, and play with the gestures. This might solve your issue without much hassle.
Check Bluetooth Input Devices
Unwanted Bluetooth devices or USB tools can mess with your trackpad. Check Bluetooth settings in System Preferences. If you find devices you don’t need, disconnect them. Then see if your trackpad starts working better.
Inspect for Physical Damage or Dirt
Physical damage or dirt might be your issue. Take a close look at your trackpad for any harm or grime. Clean it carefully with a soft cloth. This is a simple way to keep trackpad issues away.
In the end, these first steps can greatly aid in solving trackpad troubles. From software tweaks to a bit of cleaning, these methods are effective. They’re a good start before you think about getting professional help.
How to Clean a MacBook Trackpad
Keeping your MacBook trackpad clean is key to its performance. Over time, it can get covered in dirt and oils, affecting its use. This guide will show you how to clean your trackpad well and keep it working right.
Materials Needed for Cleaning
- A soft, lint-free cloth (such as a 3M Gray Microfiber)
- 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe, 75 percent ethyl alcohol wipe, or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes
- Water (for dampening the cloth)
- Thin paper (optional, for edges)
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Here are the steps to clean your MacBook trackpad:
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Power Down Your Device:
Make sure to turn off your MacBook. This prevents any unexpected inputs and protects against electrical problems.
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Use the Lint-free Cloth:
Dampen the cloth with water or a 70 percent isoprop Hundred solution. Make sure it’s not too wet, as water can harm your device.
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Wipe the Surface:
Carefully wipe the trackpad, moving in circles. This helps get rid of prints and residue. Don’t forget to clean the sides and corners.
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Clean the Edges:
If needed, slide thin paper around the trackpad edges to soak up any moisture or dirt. Be careful not to push dirt inside.
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Dry the Trackpad:
Let the trackpad dry fully before turning your MacBook back on. Check that it’s completely dry.
Maintaining your MacBook trackpad well helps your device stay in top shape. By following this guide, you can ensure your trackpad works smoothly and responds well.
How to Reset the SMC and PRAM on Your MacBook
If your MacBook’s trackpad isn’t responding right, even after updating to macOS Big Sur or Monterey, don’t worry. Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC) and the Parameter RAM (PRAM) might fix these issues. These steps have helped many users with various MacBook models fix problems like frozen trackpads and strange cursor movements. Here’s a guide to do these resets yourself.
Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC)
Resetting the SMC can fix power, battery, and fan speed issues. For MacBooks with Intel chips, the steps are easy:
- Shut down your MacBook.
- Press and hold the Shift + Control + Option keys on the left side of the built-in keyboard, then press the power button at the same time.
- Keep them held for 10 seconds.
- Let go of all keys and the power button, then press the power button to turn on your MacBook.
This method might solve trackpad problems and boost your system’s performance by resetting the SMC.
Resetting the NVRAM or PRAM
To fix trackpad issues, resetting the PRAM or NVRAM is also essential. This fixes display, sound, and other settings:
- Shut down your MacBook.
- Restart it and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R keys.
- Hold these keys for about 20 seconds until the MacBook restarts.
- Let go of the keys and let your MacBook start normally.
Resetting the PRAM can solve problems caused by wrong system settings. If your trackpad still doesn’t work, you may need to troubleshoot more or get help from a pro, like iFixit stores.
Whether you reset the SMC or PRAM on your MacBook, you might get your trackpad working again. Doing these resets can also prevent other hardware and system issues, keeping your MacBook running smoothly.
Software Solutions for Trackpad Issues
Many trackpad problems on MacBooks can be fixed with easy software steps. Start by running maintenance scripts. This clears out system logs and temp files that might slow down your trackpad.
Running Maintenance Scripts
For keeping your MacBook in good shape, use the Terminal for maintenance scripts. Simply open Terminal and type sudo periodic daily, sudo periodic weekly, and sudo periodic monthly. These commands clean out old logs and caches, making your trackpad work better.
Checking for macOS Updates
It’s crucial to keep your macOS updated. Updates often have fixes for trackpad issues. Go to the Apple menu, click ‘System Preferences,’ then ‘Software Update’ to check. Download any available updates. Doing so keeps your MacBook running smoothly.
Running Apple Diagnostics
If your trackpad still isn’t right, try Apple Diagnostics to spot hardware issues. Restart your MacBook and press ‘D.’ You’ll get a report on any problems found. This can tell you if you need professional help.
