What to Do When MacBook Pro Touch Bar Stops Working
The MacBook Pro Touch Bar is a distinctive feature designed to enhance the functionality of your MacBook, providing users with dynamic shortcuts, system controls, and app-specific features. However, when the MacBook Pro Touch Bar stops working, it can disrupt your workflow. Whether you’re encountering a frozen touch bar or one that has stopped responding altogether, it’s important to understand the troubleshooting steps to take. This guide will help you resolve issues related to the Touch Bar not working, from software fixes to more advanced solutions.
Step 1: Restart Your MacBook Pro
The first and simplest step to take when your MacBook Pro Touch Bar stops functioning is to restart your device. A system restart can resolve minor software issues, clear temporary glitches, and restore functionality.
How to Restart Your MacBook Pro
- Click the Apple menu located in the top left corner of your screen.
- Select “Restart” from the dropdown menu.
- Wait for your MacBook to reboot, and check if the Touch Bar is now responding.
Restarting your MacBook can be a quick and effective way to resolve temporary system errors.
Step 2: Update macOS
If restarting doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s a good idea to check for any available macOS updates. Sometimes, an outdated version of macOS can cause compatibility issues with the MacBook Pro Touchbar, resulting in the touch bar not functioning as expected.
How to Update macOS
- Open the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.”
- Click on “Software Update.”
- If an update is available, click “Update Now.”
Keeping your macOS up to date is crucial for optimal performance and bug fixes, including resolving MacBook Touch Bar not working issues.
Step 3: Reset the System Management Controller (SMC)
The System Management Controller (SMC) is responsible for handling hardware-related tasks, including the MacBook Pro Touch Bar. A reset of the SMC can help restore the functionality of the touch bar if software updates or restarts have not solved the problem.
How to Reset the SMC
- Shut down your MacBook Pro.
- Plug the power adapter into your MacBook.
- Press and hold the Shift + Control + Option keys on the left side of the keyboard, along with the power button.
- Hold all keys for 10 seconds, then release them.
- Press the power button again to turn on your MacBook.
After performing an SMC reset, check if the MacBook Pro Touch Bar is now working.
Step 4: Reset the NVRAM
NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random-Access Memory) stores specific system settings related to audio, display, and other hardware preferences. Resetting the NVRAM can help resolve conflicts that may cause the MacBook Pro Touchbar to malfunction.
How to Reset NVRAM
- Shut down your MacBook Pro.
- Turn it back on and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R for about 20 seconds.
- Release the keys, and let your MacBook reboot.
Once the reset is complete, check if the Touch Bar is functioning as expected.
Step 5: Check for Physical Damage
If the MacBook Pro Touch Bar remains unresponsive after attempting the software-based troubleshooting steps, it’s possible that there may be physical damage to the touch bar itself. Over time, wear and tear, accidental drops, or exposure to moisture can cause the Touch Bar to malfunction.
Inspect for Visible Damage
Carefully examine the MacBook Pro Touch Bar for any physical damage such as cracks, liquid exposure, or misalignment. If you detect any visible issues, this may require professional repair services.
Step 6: Seek Professional Assistance
If none of the previous steps resolve the issue and your Touch Bar is still unresponsive, it may be necessary to seek professional help. Sometimes, hardware malfunctions that affect the MacBook Pro Touchbar require specialized repairs.
Why Choose Same Day Mac Repairs?
At Same Day Mac Repairs, we offer expert solutions for a wide range of MacBook Pro Touch Bar issues. Our technicians are skilled in diagnosing and repairing hardware and software issues, including complex Mac Repairs. If the Touch Bar not working is due to a deeper hardware malfunction, our team will provide fast, reliable service to restore your device.
Same Day Mac Repairs offers:
- Comprehensive diagnostics and repair services for MacBook Pro Touch Bar issues.
- Efficient, same-day service for fast turnaround times.
- Highly trained technicians with expertise in Mac Repairs.
Conclusion
When your MacBook Pro Touch Bar stops working, it can disrupt your daily routine, but there are several troubleshooting methods you can try. From restarting your MacBook and updating macOS to resetting the SMC and NVRAM, many issues can be resolved through software fixes. However, if the problem persists and your Touch Bar is still not working, physical damage or more complex issues may be to blame.
If you’re unable to resolve the issue on your own, don’t hesitate to reach out to Same Day Mac Repairs. Our expert technicians can quickly diagnose and repair your MacBook Pro Touch Bar, ensuring that you get back to work as soon as possible.