MacBook Pro won't turn on after low battery. MacBook won't turn on anymore. It can be fixed. If you have a MacBook with a removable battery

As with any other device, a situation may occur with a Macbook in which it stops starting. Let's take a closer look at the reasons why your MacBook won't turn on and look at troubleshooting solutions.

Main reasons

Why won't my MacBook turn on? There are several main reasons. These include the following situations:

• system error;
• network short circuit;
• failure of the charger or power connector;
• impact damage (dropping the device on the floor, accidental impact on the case or screen);
• water entering the internal elements of the device;
• high workloads and dust contamination (the device is overheated);

In three of the above cases, you cannot take any independent actions to “reanimate” the device. These situations include: spilling any liquid on the MacBook, serious mechanical damage, and the appearance of a burning smell. Here, only a qualified specialist can provide assistance, and manual actions will only aggravate the breakdown.

Possible solutions

What to do if your MacBook won't turn on? It is advisable to take the device to a service center regardless of the reason. A specialist will be able to accurately determine the source of the problem and eliminate the problem with minimal losses. Trying to turn it on yourself if you have certain problems can complicate subsequent repairs.

If it is not possible to take your MacBook to a service center, there are several recommendations that will help solve the problem. Let's look at them in detail:

1. Check the charger and power connector. When the power cord is plugged into the outlet, the power indicator should light up green. If it does not light, try an analog or replacement power cord. When connecting the charger, the power connector should hold it firmly in a level position. If the plug falls out or is bent arbitrarily, the problem lies in the connector.

1. To check the power system, you can use an additional charged battery. If the device starts up, the reason is in the “original” battery.
2. We connect the MacBook to an outlet whose functionality has been tested with another item (phone charger, lamp, TV, etc.).
3. If a short circuit occurs or an emergency shutdown is performed, after which the MacBook does not turn on, you need to try the following method. Disconnect the power cable, take out the battery, press the power button and hold it for several seconds. Insert the battery, connect the cord, connect the plug to the outlet and press Power.
4. We turn off all additional equipment (printer, tablet, smartphone, external hard drives, etc.), and try to start the MacBook again.
5. A system software error that prevents the MacBook from starting can be checked by typing a specific key combination and pressing the power button to reboot. When the power cable is connected, simultaneously press the combination Shift + Ctrl + Option + Power. The keys are released simultaneously. If the MacBook started up, the reason lay in the system management controller. Resetting its settings allowed the enabler workflows to restart.

1. The presence of an error in memory components is checked and eliminated by the following combination. Press the power button, and then simultaneously hold down the Command + Option + P + R keys. The gray screen should “light up”. We continue to hold the combination until the characteristic OS boot signal.

How to solve the problem if the screen does not turn on?

A situation may arise when, when you turn on the network and press the Power button, the Macbook itself turns on and, at the same time, the screen does not turn on. The reason is in the matrix. This is very easy to determine:

• When starting up, you can hear the noise of the fan and the functioning of the disks;
• the OS startup melody is heard;
• When you press CapsLock, the corresponding indicator lights up.

If you identify these signs and determine screen problems, you need to take your MacBook to a specialized service.

Apple computers are highly reliable, but their owners sometimes run into trouble. Let's figure out what needs to be done when the MacBook does not turn on. If you didn’t manage to flood your laptop and didn’t drop it on the floor, the problem can most likely be solved without going to a service center.

First, you should perform an external test to ensure that the monitor and power adapter are working properly. The first applies more to owners of Mac Mini and iMac all-in-one PCs. Laptops manufactured before 2016 use a MagSafe magnetic port for charging. Its power cord is equipped with an indicator light.

When connected correctly, it should glow orange or green. The L-shaped magnetic latch can operate even if the contacts have not yet connected. In this case, the power cord is externally connected, but due to slight misalignment, power is not supplied. The latest generation of T-latches do not have this drawback. Make sure MagSafe is connected correctly.

All 12-inch models, and after 2016 – the MacBook Pro, use a power supply with a USB-C connector, which does not have a light indication. MagSafe remains only in Air. The cord of the new adapters has two identical connectors at the ends and connects to the laptop and power supply through a port.

Unplug it on both sides and plug it back in. The adapter can automatically interrupt the power supply if there is a disturbance in the electrical network. To reset the triggered protection, unplug it from the socket for one minute. Once turned back on, the computer should begin charging normally.

Reset NVRAM/PRAM

When the adapter is working properly, power is supplied and the apple on the lid lights up, but the screen is still black, you will need to reset the NVRAM/PRAM.

1. Completely turn off the computer using the power button. Turn it on and immediately press the combination shown in the screenshot.

1. Hold down all the keys until the laptop starts up, emitting the boot beep again. After the startup went smoothly and we are logged in, we need to check for updates. Click on the apple logo in the menu bar located in the left corner. Select the marked item.

1. On the main page, click the indicated button to open the App Store.

The system will automatically check for updates. We install all available ones and, if necessary, update the OS to the latest version of High Sierra.

Resetting the SMC

The SMC controller is responsible for the power supply functions. These include battery management, response to closing and opening the lid, the operation of some system sensors and interaction with peripheral devices. In any case, if you feel like your Mac isn't working properly, forcefully restarting the controller may resolve the issues.

For Aimak monoblocks and all Mini versions, it is enough to disconnect the power cord for 15 seconds. You must wait at least five more seconds before turning it back on. For laptop computers, which include all versions of Air, Pro and 12-inch Retina, we perform the following steps.

1. Turn off the device completely using the menu item shown.

1. Disconnect the power cord. Press the three keys shown in the screenshot in the left corner simultaneously with the power button and hold for ten seconds. Reconnect the power adapter and turn on the laptop.

As in the previous case, we check and install available OS updates.

Consequences of the upgrade

Apple has made it almost impossible to upgrade in recent years. In previously released MacBooks, the user could independently replace the memory sticks. The operation is, in principle, simple, but requires the correct selection of modules. If, after an upgrade, the laptop starts beeping while turning it on, this indicates problems with the new memory.

In this case, signals are given with a pause of five seconds. Depending on the model, this may be one repeating beep or a series of three consecutive beeps. The only way out of this situation is to reinstall old modules or purchase suitable ones.

Finally

If resetting the NVRAM and SMC didn't help you, then your Mac has serious problems. The best solution would be to contact a certified service for professional diagnostics. Don't forget that your MacBook is covered by Apple's limited warranty for one year from activation and some repairs are free.

Video instruction

In the video below you can see firsthand how the described operations are performed by a professional.

Let's not talk about Apple's reliability for the 100th time. Everything breaks.

But this case is strange, almost paranormal - at least it seems so when it happens to you.

Given: a new MacBook in excellent condition and without repairs. Sit and work on it. Suddenly, it turned off. Without warning, the screen went dark and the power went out.

You try to turn it on, but it doesn't respond at all. No way. Long press the power button, connect the charging cable, change the charger. Just zero reaction.

Don't rush to go to the service just yet. And don't rush at all. Perhaps this problem can be solved right now.

I experienced my Mac suddenly shutting down 2 times in 1 week

I believe in coincidences, so I think I was just “lucky.” But any of you could be in this place.

A week ago, a colleague of mine experienced the above problem on his MacBook Pro. The computer simply turned off out of the blue and no longer showed any signs of life. I tried different chargers, cables, opening and closing the lid. Useless.

A few days later the situation repeated itself with me and a 12-inch MacBook. Only the circumstances are different.

I didn't have a sudden blackout. The MacBook had 2% charge left when it went out. I didn’t think anything bad, put it in my bag and forgot about it. In the evening I put it on charge.

I open it in the morning, try to turn it on - zero reaction.

The laptop just seemed completely dead. It’s a strange feeling – just there was a computer, and now there’s a piece of metal with buttons. And it seems like it’s not your fault.

If something like this happens to you, do not despair: most likely, the problem is a failure of the SMC controller.

What is an SMC controller, why is it needed?

Literally, SMC stands for System Management Controller, that is, a system management controller.

This is a chip on the motherboard that solves several specific problems. Quoting the official Apple website, SMC is responsible for:

• response to pressing the power button
• response to opening and closing the display lid on Mac laptops
• battery resource management
• temperature control
• operation of the sudden motion sensor (SMS)
• ambient light sensor operation
• keyboard backlight
• status indicator control
• battery status indicators
• Select an external (rather than internal) video source for select iMac displays.

SMC controllers are found on all MacBooks with Intel processors. Under ideal operating conditions they function without problems.

But for some, SMC may begin to become dull. The cause cannot be guessed or diagnosed at home. This could be problems after an unsuccessful update or restoring the system from a backup, or power surges when recharging the battery. Or something else.

If the cause of the SMC controller failure is extremely difficult to determine, then you will notice the problems themselves almost immediately.

Again, we turn to the official Apple website for a list of situations that require resetting the SMC controller:

• The computer's fans are spinning at high speeds even though the computer is not heavily loaded and is properly ventilated.
• The keyboard backlight is not working properly.
• The status light (if equipped) does not light up correctly.
• Battery indicators (if present) do not work correctly on Mac notebooks with a non-removable battery.
• The display backlight does not respond correctly to changes in ambient light.
• Your Mac doesn't respond when you press the power button.
• Your Mac laptop doesn't respond correctly when you close or open the lid.
• Your Mac suddenly goes to sleep or shuts down and then can't turn on.
• The battery is not charging properly.
• Your MacBook or MacBook Pro won't charge using the built-in USB-C port.
• Your MacBook or MacBook Pro doesn't recognize external devices connected to its built-in USB-C port.
• The LED indicator on the MagSafe power adapter (if equipped) does not correctly indicate the current charging status.
• Your Mac is running unusually slow, even though it isn't experiencing excessive CPU usage.
• Your Mac that supports Shared Display mode doesn't switch to or from Shared Display mode as expected, or it switches unexpectedly.
• The lighting around the I/O ports on your Mac Pro (Late 2013) does not activate when you move the computer.

Normal, right? Reading this list in its entirety makes you want to immediately reset the SMC settings on your Mac, no matter how it works. Suddenly it will get better.

Fortunately, the SMC reset procedure is safe, does not lead to negative consequences, and is often used by Apple service centers as the first step in resolving owner complaints. No data or settings will be lost. All files will be in place.

As you may have guessed, it was the SMC reset that helped my colleague and I revive our MacBooks. Only the procedure turned out to be not as simple as it was described on the Apple website.

How do I reset SMC on my Mac?

If you have a MacBook with a non-removable battery: Turn off your MacBook (if it's on), hold down the CMD (command) + Option (alt) + Shift keys on the left side of the keyboard, and press the power button with your other hand. Keep it all pressed for 10 seconds, then release. Turn on your Mac as usual.

If your MacBook has a removable battery: throw it away, it's time to upgrade. Okay, seriously, you need to turn off the beech, remove the battery from it, hold down the power button for five seconds, then release, insert the battery pack back and turn on the laptop normally.

If you have a desktop Mac, iMac, and Mac mini: turn it off, unplug the power cable, wait 15 seconds. Insert the cable back. Wait another 5 seconds, turn on as usual.

If you have an iMac Pro: turn it off, hold down the power button for 8 seconds, release it for 2 seconds and then just press.

Mac computers give no indication that the SMC settings have actually been reset. If your problem is not solved, although it is mentioned in the reasons to reset, try again. Once again.

Damn it, try ten times. Because for some unknown reason it very rarely works out the first time.

Personally, about the sixth attempt brought me success. The Mac suddenly turned on, started charging and generally acted as if nothing bad had happened.

What if resetting the SMC didn’t help and the Mac still won’t turn on?

I highly recommend trying to reset SMC at least five times. This observation is confirmed by numerous topics on Western forums. For some reason, the keyboard shortcut window is very small on newer MacBook models.

If you are reading this article, then you probably have problems with Apple technology. Do not be upset, perhaps the problem is not so serious and it is possible to solve it even on your own, without resorting to the help of specialists. People often contact us with questions such as problems with their MacBook. It would seem that the perfect quality of perfect technology - what problems could there be? Unfortunately, no manufacturer can provide a lifetime warranty; in addition, the reliability of Apple laptops highly depends on careful handling. Today we will talk about how to determine the cause of problems with your MacBook yourself and when you should contact a specialist.

MacBook won't turn on - what to do?

Before you panic about this and run to the service center, give your device “computer first aid.” The algorithms described below will help determine the cause, and possibly find a solution.

Charging problems

First of all, check that the charger is plugged into the socket tightly; it may have come loose and the charging process is not taking place. If the socket is working properly, inspect the cord and adapter; the computer may malfunction due to their malfunction.

Maybe the display is faulty?

To answer this question we do the following:

• We turn it on and listen: you can hear the boot melody or the noise of fans and disks - the screen is faulty;
• Activate the Caps Lock key - if the indicator light works, then again, there is a problem with the screen.

If it's not a display

We take a deep breath and calmly unplug the power cord, freeing all connectors used by printers, scanners and other devices. Next, we even out our breathing and calm the nervous system for a minute - everything is not so scary, right? Next, connect the charging. Turn it on. Has the process started? Smile and with a feeling of pride you can return to the original printer and so on. If nothing happened. This also happens.

Resetting the System Management Controller

The second step is to reset the system management controller (in addition, resetting this controller has a positive effect on the operation of the fan, which will become very quiet). This is necessary because when the settings are not correct, the MacBook cannot recognize its battery. For this:

• Connect the MagSafe or USB-C power adapter to the power source and to the computer.
• On the built-in keyboard, press the Shift-Control-Option keys (on the left) and the power button simultaneously.
• At the same time, release the keys and the power button.
• Press the power button to turn on the computer.

Works?

MacBook is filled with liquid

First aid is as follows: very quickly unplug the power cord, remove the battery, turn the device over and wait three days until it dries completely. Next, we either take it to the service, or turn it on, hoping for our luck. Remember: the composition of what is spilled on a Mac determines the scale of the consequences - clean warm water is not as bad as an iced Pepsi spilled on a hard drive that is pretty hot from work.

The device constantly turns off during operation

This problem will certainly overtake those who like to sit at work in a dusty closet or in the company of their beloved cat. Dirt that gets on the cooler impairs its performance and literally dooms this part and the computer as a whole to a slow and painful death.

MacBook is very slow

In such a situation, we certainly urge you to clean your device! A cluttered desktop, a bunch of useless but “cool” applications, lack of software updates - all this saddens your machine and it protests against this attitude towards itself! Reinstall the system and organize your files, and your Mac will happily buzz with renewed vigor. Did not help? Your MacBook will work faster with a new SSD drive and more RAM.

If your strength is exhausted...

If the above steps do not give a positive result, or other problems arise, we strongly recommend that you seek qualified help.

Reminder for MacBook user In order to avoid having to turn to specialists for technical assistance ahead of time, it is worth remembering and following simple rules for using the device: It is necessary to work with a computer only on a clean surface: dust, dirt and pet hair are not the fan’s best friends; Do not place a container of liquid next to your MacBook, as a careless wave of your hand can result in costly repairs; Be careful with transportation: falling from a height is not the best way to check the build quality of equipment; If you are not confident in your abilities to install, configure and update software, trust the specialists; If your outlet periodically sparks and smokes, you should not play Russian roulette with the wiring by inserting the MacBook charger plug into the connector.

If your Macbook won't turn on, there's no reason to worry. According to specialists from the Macrepublic service center, every second Apple laptop that suddenly turns off and does not want to turn on can be easily revived at home.

Our advantages

Let's take a closer look at how this happens.

Check monitor

First of all, you need to rule out a display malfunction. Perhaps the Macbook Pro screen does not turn on, but the rest of the system devices are working properly. If during startup you hear the noise of the fan, the display works and the melody of loading the OS is heard, but the screen remains black, it means there is something wrong with it. The problem can only be fixed at a service center.

Check power

The most common reason why Pro, Air, Retina, Macbook does not turn on is a lack of power. Therefore, if such problems arise, perform the following actions:

Check the connections between the power cord and the adapter and outlet.

Make sure the outlet is working.

Recheck the cord and adapter on other devices.

Check the integrity of the charging plug. Clean it from dust and debris.

Eliminate the possibility of battery failure

Other ways to turn on Macbook

A malfunctioning controller or memory modules can also cause your Macbook to not turn on. Rebooting and completely turning off the power for 10 seconds will help resolve the failure.

If Pro, Air, Retina, Macbook does not turn on, you can try resetting the system management controller parameters. The reset is performed by synchronously pressing the “Option”, “Control”, “Shift” and “Power” keys. In this case, the power cord must be connected to the laptop, and the buttons must be released simultaneously. After that, you can try to turn on the MacBook again.

Another way to proceed if the Macbook Pro screen does not turn on is to restart the PRAM/NVRAM. Restarting is done by pressing and holding the Power, Option, R and P buttons until the black screen turns gray and the reboot occurs.

A power surge or power failure can also cause your MacBook not to turn on. Power control is carried out by “Power Manager”, which blocks the laptop from turning on. The following actions will help you disable the manager's action: When the MacBook overheats, a shutdown is also observed. You can turn on the device only after it has completely cooled down.

• disconnect the gadget from the network;
• remove the battery;
• press the “Power” key and hold for 5-10 seconds;
• insert the battery back;
• try turning on the laptop again.

1. When the MacBook overheats, a shutdown is also observed. You can turn on the device only after it has completely cooled down.

   If Pro, Air, Retina, Macbook does not turn on after the update, boot in safe mode by holding down the “Shift” button during startup.