What to do if Trackpad is Not Working on macOS

Sometimes it happens that your trackpad on Mac doesn’t work at all, there could be many reasons behind that. However, the trackpad is an important component, as it allows you to interact with the graphical user interface in such a way that keyboard shortcuts won’t allow it.

But trackpad not working or not responding issue is uncommon. This might happen due to software errors or due to faulty hardware like a swollen battery that can interfere with your trackpad from being able to click. Here’s a troubleshooting guide that will help you to fix the trackpad is not working issue on macOS. Without further ado, let’s get started.

Troubleshoot To Fix Trackpad on your macOS

Work will much easier if you already have an external mouse or trackpad plugged into Mac in order to navigate the issue. Follow the workarounds mentioned below:

What To Do If Trackpad Is Not Working On Macos

Check System Preferences

Check whether you have kept correct settings of trackpad. Here’s how to do that:

Step 1: Visit System Preferences > Accessibility> Mouse & Trackpad.

Step 2: Untick Enable Moues Keys option.

Step 3: Click on Options… and turn off Ignore built-in trackpad when Mouse Keys is on.

Step 4: Increase the Double-click speed to faster speed.

Step 5: Untick Ignore built-in trackpad when mouse or wireless trackpad is present.

What To Do If Trackpad Is Not Working On Macos

Additionally, turn off the Bluetooth, as your MacBook will assume it is connected to an external mouse or trackpad.

SEE ALSO  My iPad Won't Power Off - How to Fix

Reset NVRAM and PRAM

Just reset NVRAM and PRAM as it is used to store information about screen brightness, device volume, and time. Resetting this will not lose any of your data. Here’s how to do that:

Step 1: Visit Apple > Shut Down and your Mac to turn off.

Step 2: Press the power button and then hold option+command+p+r.

What To Do If Trackpad Is Not Working On Macos

Step 3: Now, just release all the keys after 20 seconds, now the Apple logo should appear on the screen after the second startup sound.

Update your macOS

Make sure to update your macOS on latest version.

Step 1: Visit Apple > About This Mac > Software Update…

What To Do If Trackpad Is Not Working On Macos

Step 2: Let your Mac check the software updates.

Step 3: Click on “Update Now” if any update is availble.

Run diagnostics on your MacBook Pro

Diagnostics on your Mac will help you to get an idea what is the exact problem.

Step 1: Unplug the Mac from from power adapter.

Step 2: Visit Apple > Shut Down your device.

Step 3: Keepy your Mac on flat surface with good ventilization.

Step 4: Press the power button and press and hold D key.

Step 5: Release D key when you’re pormpted to choose a langurage.

Step 6: Choose the language and let diagnostics complete.

What To Do If Trackpad Is Not Working On Macos

Step 7: Note every reference code you receive and visit an Apple Service Centre and provide the information to them.

Leave a Comment