Complete Troubleshooting Manual for Dead MacBook Pros: Simple Solutions 

June 23, 2023

Do you have difficulties starting a MacBook Pro? You’re not alone. This is a common issue with many causes, ranging from hardware failures to software problems. Fortunately, many of these issues may be fixed without professional help or expensive repairs. Whether it’s a faulty power adapter, a drained battery, or a minor system glitch, simple troubleshooting can often resolve the problem. In some cases, resetting the SMC or PRAM may restore functionality in minutes.

Follow these basic steps to determine the root cause and potentially fix it yourself. This page provides a detailed and easy-to-follow explanation of the most common causes of a dead MacBook Pro, including tips for distinguishing hardware issues from software ones and step-by-step instructions to troubleshoot effectively. With the right approach, you might be able to avoid the need for service and get your MacBook Pro running smoothly again.

Finding fundamental hardware issues

Before looking for more difficult solutions, rule out some of the most basic hardware issues preventing your MacBook Pro from starting. These can address charging cord, power supply, and other connectivity issues. Let’s review how to turn on and connect your MacBook to a power supply.

Check the MacBook Pro’s plug-in behaviour.

Troubleshooting a MacBook Pro that won’t turn on starts with a working power supply. The most obvious cause is a dead battery, which prevents your MacBook from starting. Use these criteria to verify:

Check the Power Adapter: Make sure your MacBook’s power adapter works in a wall socket. Plug in another gadget to test the outlet.

Check the power wire. Ensure the MacBook-adapter charging wire is properly connected. Sometimes the cable comes free without our knowledge.

If your charger has an LED indicator light, check it. If the light flickers or goes out, the charger may need to be replaced.

Checking charger and cord for damage

If your MacBook won’t charge or power on, examine the charger and cord for wear. Even with a functional outlet, a defective charger or connection might prevent your MacBook from charging. Use these principles to assess damage:

Checking cable wear: Check the charging cord for frays, cuts, and exposed wires. These issues may severely impact MacBook power flow.

Check charging port. Check the cable connection for bent or broken pins. A faulty connector may prevent the MacBook from charging, even if the connection appears OK.

Try a different charger if the charger or cable is damaged.

Check Charging Port Obstructions Debris

Sometimes dirt or rubbish might clog the charging port, preventing the power line from connecting. To fix:

Visual Inspection: Use a flashlight to check the charging port for garbage or blockages that might damage it.

Port painting: Dust or dirt on the charging port? Clean it with compressed air or a soft brush. Avoid damaging internal parts during operation.

Finding battery issues

After minor hardware repairs, your MacBook Pro may not come on due to the battery. You can check and repair battery issues in many ways.

Battery Check

• If the MacBook powers on but doesn’t boot, the battery may be to blame. Use these recommendations to assess battery health:
• View battery status in system preferences: Check System Preferences’ Battery section for battery notifications. The system may replace the battery if it needs service.
• Hold for charge. If the MacBook battery dies, charge it and wait 15–30 minutes before turning it on again. A extremely low battery may take awhile to charge.

SMC reset

The System Management Controller controls MacBook hardware, including battery life. Resetting the SMC often fixes power issues. Reset the MacBook Pro SMC with these instructions:

• Shut off MacBook Pro.
• Plug the MacBook power adapter into a power source.
• Hold Shift + Control + Option on the left side of the keyboard and the power button for 10 seconds.
• Release keys and power.
• Turn on your MacBook again by pressing the power button.
• Resetting the SMC fixes charging and battery issues

Fixing software issues

If your MacBook Pro turns on but doesn’t load, it may be the software. Starting your MacBook in Safe Mode lets you find and fix software issues that may prevent it from booting.

Start in Safe Mode.

Safe Mode, a diagnostic mode, helps you fix software issues by preventing unnecessary startup operations. Start with MacBook Pro Safe Mode:

• Power down your MacBook Pro.
• Hold the Shift key and press the power button to turn on your MacBook.
• Once at the login screen, release Shift.
• If your MacBook enters Safe Mode, it may have software issues. Search for corrupt files or conflicting programs to further troubleshoot.

Check macOS Update issues.

A conflict or damaged system file may have caused the problem after a recent macOS update. Enter Recovery Mode by holding down Command + R on startup to solve this.

Check and repair the startup disc with disc Utility.

If needed, reinstall macOS to restore the system.

Force Stop/Restart

You may need to force shutdown your MacBook Pro if it becomes unresponsive upon startup:

• Holding the power button for 10 seconds turns off the MacBook.
• Wait a few seconds, then press the power button again to turn it on.
• This might help if a crash or software issue freezes the system.

Hardware component checks

Your MacBook Pro won’t power on? Check for internal hardware issues. These may involve RAM, logic board, or display difficulties. Examine hardware problem diagnostic methods.

• If your MacBook turns on—you may hear the fan or see lights—but the screen stays black, the display may be broken. To identify display issues, check the external display. 
• Connect your MacBook to another screen. Your MacBook’s built-in screen may be the issue if the external display works.
• Adjust Brightness: Check the screen brightness to make sure it’s not too low.

Check RAM and internals.

RAM issues also prevent MacBook starting. If you feel comfortable opening your device, check the RAM modules:

• Reinstall RAM: If your MacBook has removable RAM, rearrange the modules to ensure a good connection.
• Watch for beeps. Starting your MacBook with a series of beeps indicates a RAM problem.
• Check logic board issues.
• Startup issues might result from logic board defects. Damage to the logic board or overheating prevents the MacBook from starting. To detect overheating, look for a heated casing. Let the MacBook’s outside case cool before turning it on again.
• Logic Board Issues: If the logic board is faulty, see a professional for diagnostics and repair.

Fifth, backup and recover data

If your MacBook Pro is slow, you may lose important data. Backups protect your data before major fixes.

• If your MacBook has a fan or lights, back up your data immediately:
• External Action: Time Machine and external hard drives backup your data.
• Upload crucial data to the cloud if possible for secure storage.
• If your MacBook won’t start and you haven’t backed up, consider professional data recovery. These firms specialise in recovering data from failed devices and can often recover important files from seriously damaged hardware.

When to See a Pro?

If your MacBook Pro won’t power up after all troubleshooting, visit a specialist. These signs suggest expert help:

Chronic Startup Issues

After several troubleshooting attempts, your MacBook may need professional diagnosis and repair.

Hardware Failure

Broken screens and logic boards may require professional repair.

Certified Technician search

Make sure your repair person is Apple-certified to ensure cautious and competent work. Look for licensed Apple service providers or approved repair shops with good reviews.

Conclusion

Handling a dead MacBook Pro is unpleasant but not dangerous. This book’s troubleshooting instructions will help you quickly detect and repair common MacBook startup issues. There are several remedies for internal components, software, battery life, and power supply issues that will get your device working again. If everything else fails, a professional technician may be needed. Always backup your files to avoid losing important information during troubleshooting.