MacBook Keyboard Not Working — Causes and fixes

If your MacBook keyboard is not working, the right fix depends on whether the issue is software, liquid damage, or a hardware connection failure.

Quick checks

• Restart and test in Safe Mode
• Check if an external keyboard works
• If there was liquid, stop using it and power it off

Common hardware causes

• Liquid damage to keyboard/top case
• Keyboard flex/connector issues
• Trackpad/battery swelling affecting internals (some models)

If multiple input devices fail (keyboard + trackpad), it can also indicate board-level or connector issues—diagnosis helps avoid unnecessary replacement.