How to Fix a MacBook that Won’t Charge

Is your MacBook failing to charge? Don’t panic! In this article, we’ll explore some possible reasons why your MacBook might not be charging and offer some solutions to fix it.

Possible Reasons Why Your MacBook Isn’t Charging

Before you try advanced solutions, let’s check some basic things:

1. Is your MacBook properly connected to the charger? Try disconnecting and reconnecting the charging cable.
2. Is the power outlet working? Try changing to a different outlet to see if that solves the problem.
3. Double-check that your power adapter is securely connected. The power adapter consists of two parts – the square adapter and the removable plug that plugs into the wall, and the charging cable. Disconnect and reassemble them.
4. Check the condition of your Apple adapter. Does it look burnt-out or discolored? Are there any cracks in the cable? If so, try borrowing one from a friend or getting a new one from an Apple store.
5. Check the power port on your MacBook and remove any dust or debris that may be obstructing the connector.
6. Click on the battery icon in the menu bar, and if it says “Service Battery,” your battery needs to be replaced.

Find Out If Your MacBook Has Been Recalled

Check if your MacBook, particularly the battery, has been recalled by Apple. This can help you narrow down the issue.

During the summer of 2019, Apple recalled some MacBook Pros due to battery concerns. Click here for details on how to recover a 15-inch MacBook Pro battery for devices sold between 2015 and 2017, and for other MacBook Pro models (not Touch Bar) 2016-2017 affected by a part failure that caused the built-in battery to expand, click here.

It’s also possible that your MacBook charger is part of a recall. Find out if it’s been affected by checking Apple’s website.

Advanced Solutions: Reset the Battery and SMC

If the above methods don’t work, you’ll have to try advanced solutions like resetting the battery and SMC:

• If your MacBook has a removable battery, remove it, disconnect the power adapter, and press and hold the power key for ten seconds. Then replace the battery and reconnect the power adapter. Restart the MacBook to see if it charges.
• If your MacBook’s battery is not removable, you need to reset the SMC, which stands for the System Management Controller, a chip on your MacBook’s circuit board that controls the power.
• Here are the steps to follow to reset the SMC:
1. Shut down your MacBook.
2. Connect the power adapter.
3. Hold down Control + Shift + Option / Alt and the power button for about four seconds. Then release all four together.
4. Finally, press the power button to restart your MacBook.

Have Your MacBook Serviced

If none of the above solutions work, you should bring your MacBook to Apple (or an authorized Apple reseller) for service, and consider having the battery replaced. Check if your MacBook is eligible for service by visiting Apple’s service and support website and entering your serial number.

If your MacBook is still under warranty or you have AppleCare, it’s easy to set up a repair.

Battery Drains Too Quickly

If your MacBook battery is draining too quickly, try these solutions:

1. Check your power settings by going to System Preferences > Settings > Power Saver and make sure that both the Computer Sleep and Screen Sleep sliders are not set to Never. If so, click the Default button to reset them.
2. If applicable, check if your MacBook is part of a recall.
3. Finally, don’t leave your MacBook plugged in all the time. It’s best to let your battery discharge fully and recharge it occasionally.