Troubleshooting a Non-Charging MacBook Charger

When your MacBook charger is not working, it can be a frustrating experience. In this article, we'll guide you through steps to troubleshoot and fix the issue, ensuring your MacBook stays powered up and productive.

Common Issues and Initial Steps

If your charger is not working, it's important to first determine if it's the cable, the charger itself, or a potential issue with your MacBook. Here are some initial steps to consider:

Try a different outlet: Sometimes, the issue might simply be with the power outlet. Try plugging the charger into another outlet to see if it works. Try a different cable: If you have a spare cable, use it to see if the charger is the issue. Sometimes, it's the cable that has failed. Charge a different device: Plug your cable into a different device to ensure it's functioning properly. If it works with another device, the problem likely lies with your MacBook.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, proceed to the more advanced troubleshooting steps.

Advanced Troubleshooting Steps

Here are a few more advanced steps to help you isolate the problem:

Reset the SMC: If the charger and cable both work but your MacBook still won't charge, you might need to reset the System Management Controller (SMC). Here’s how to do it for different Mac models: For Macs with detachable keyboards: Shut down your MacBook. Plugin your charger and attach the power adapter to the MagSafe or USB-C port. Press and hold the left Shift, Control, and Option keys on the left side of the keyboard, then press the Power button and release all keys. Wait for 5 seconds. Press the Power button to restart your MacBook. For MacBooks with detachable keyboards: Shut down your MacBook. Plugin your charger and attach the power adapter to the MagSafe or USB-C port. Press and hold the Shift, Control, and Command keys on the keyboard, then press the Power button and release all keys. Wait for 5 seconds. Press the Power button to restart your MacBook.

If the problem persists after trying these steps, it's likely that the charger is faulty.

Replacement and Apple Support

Apple recommends that you take your MacBook and charger to an Apple Store or an authorized service center for a free diagnostic test. They can help identify the issue and provide a solution.

If the charger is still under warranty, you can check your coverage here. If your charger or MacBook was purchased from a third party, you may need to contact that vendor for support.

Conclusion

The most common causes of a non-working MacBook charger are faulty cables, issues with the SMC, or a faulty charger itself. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue yourself. If the problem persists, it's best to seek professional help from an Apple Store or authorized service center.