MacBook Not Turning On

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When a MacBook won’t turn on, it can be a stressful experience leaving you worried about losing your important files and potentially paying out for a replacement device.
Whether it’s a dead battery, hardware malfunction or software glitch, understanding the reasons why your MacBook won’t turn on is the first step in resolving the issue.
In this article, gadget experts at Protect Your Bubble explore common causes and provide suggestions to help you troubleshoot your MacBook device. 
Protect Your Bubble does not guarantee any steps detailed in this guide will fix your device(s). Any steps followed are done so at your own risk, Protect Your Bubble is not liable for any damages arising from any action or decision taken from reading this content. Damage or breakdown occurring before your Macbook insurance policy start date is not covered by the policy.    
macbook with and hand holding a lightbulb

Causes For a MacBook Not Turning On

Common causes for a MacBook not turning on include:
• Power Issues: The battery may be completely drained and needs charging, or the charger could be malfunctioning or not connected properly.
• Hardware Problems: A damaged charging port can prevent power from reaching the device. Issues with components like the logic board, RAM or hard drive can also cause startup failures.
• Software Glitches: A corrupted macOS can prevent the MacBook from booting up – or the system may become unresponsive during the startup process.
• External Devices: Connected accessories like USB drives or external monitors may cause boot issues if malfunctioning.
• Overheating: If the MacBook overheats, it may shut down to prevent damage, leading to startup issues.
• Display Problems: The MacBook may be turning on, but a malfunctioning screen can make it seem like it isn’t.

What Do I Do If My Mac Screen Is Black and Not Turning On?

If you find that your Mac screen is black and the device is not turning on, it’s important to identify the issue causing the failure. Consider trying these troubleshooting methods:
Check Power and Connections
Make sure your Mac is charged by plugging it into a power source. Look for any lights on the charger or indicators on the Mac that show it’s receiving power.
If the charger is damaged or not connecting properly, it may need to be replaced.
Reset System Management Controller (SMC)
Resetting the SMC can help with power and battery-related issues. For MacBooks with T2 chips, hold down Control + Option + Shift + the Power button, for 10 seconds, then release and turn it on.
Reset PRAM/NVRAM
Resetting the PRAM/NVRAM can fix display and startup issues. Shut down your Mac, turn it back on, and immediately hold Command + Option + P + R for about 20 seconds.
This resets certain settings, which may help to resolve the black screen issue.
Please bear in mind this may delete some settings you previously had set-up.
Check for Display Issues
To rule out display problems, connect your Mac to an external monitor. If the external display works, the issue may lie with your Mac's screen.
Additionally, adjust the brightness using the function keys to make sure it’s not set too low.

How To Fix a MacBook That Won’t Turn On

If a MacBook won’t turn on, and the screen doesn’t seem to be at fault, then you could try these DIY troubleshooting methods:
Force Restart
A force restart can resolve many temporary issues. Press and hold the Power button for about 10 seconds.
This will force your Mac to shut down completely. After a brief pause, press the Power button again to turn it back on and see if it works.
Boot in Safe Mode
Booting in Safe Mode can help diagnose software issues. Turn on your Mac while holding the Shift key until you see the Apple logo.
Safe Mode disables certain software and can help you determine if a third-party application is causing the problem.
Run Hardware Diagnostics
Restart your Mac and hold down the D key to check for hardware issues. This will launch Apple Diagnostics, which tests your hardware for any problems.
Follow the on-screen instructions to review the results and address any identified issues.
Seek Professional Help
If the previous steps do not resolve the issue, it may be time to seek professional assistance. Contact Apple Support, or consider visiting your local iSmash or Pocket Geek Tech Repair store.
Technicians can perform a more thorough diagnosis and repair any underlying hardware problems.

MacBook, Pro and Air Insurance with Protect Your Bubble

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FAQ's

Press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds to force a dead MacBook to turn on. If unresponsive, connect it to a charger and ensure it is plugged in properly. After a few minutes, try powering it on again. If it still does not work, consider seeking professional assistance.

If your MacBook is charging but not turning on, possible causes include a faulty battery, damaged display or corrupted software. Additionally, issues with the power adapter or internal hardware failures may prevent start-up. Try resetting the SMC or PRAM; if problems persist, consult a professional for diagnosis.

To perform a hard reset on a MacBook, press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds until the device shuts down. Wait a few seconds, then press the Power button again to turn it back on. This can sometimes help resolve issues like freezing or unresponsiveness.

MacBooks typically last between 5 to 7 years, depending on usage and maintenance, before performance may start to decline. Factors like software updates, battery health and hardware performance impact longevity. Regular care, such as cleaning and avoiding extreme conditions, can extend their lifespan. Many users find their MacBooks remain functional well beyond this average range.

To restart a MacBook that won’t charge, first, connect it to a power source and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, perform a hard reset by pressing and holding the Power button for 10 seconds. Release it, then press the Power button again to restart.