A common issue with the MacBook Air 2020 is the keyboard not working properly. Users report their keyboards failing to respond or behaving erratically. Ensuring that Mouse Keys is off can often solve this issue.
In some cases, this may involve simple software settings adjustments. Users should check their Input Sources in the System Settings menu and select the correct keyboard layout. If these steps don’t work, a hardware problem might be the underlying cause.
Another effective troubleshooting step involves restarting the Mac and unchecking the “Reopen windows when logging back in” option. This can prevent problematic apps from interfering with keyboard functionality. For more severe issues, resetting the PRAM or NVRAM may be necessary.
Troubleshooting Your MacBook Air 2020 Keyboard: A Step-by-Step Guide
Software Checks and Fixes
- Restart Your Mac: A simple reboot can sometimes clear temporary glitches that might be affecting your keyboard.
- Check Accessibility Settings: Make sure “Slow Keys” and “Mouse Keys” are turned off in System Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard and System Settings > Accessibility > Pointer Control, respectively.
- Verify Keyboard Layout: Confirm that the correct keyboard layout is selected in System Settings > Keyboard > Text Input.
- Update macOS: Install any pending macOS updates, as they often include bug fixes and improvements.
- Check for Conflicting Apps: If the issue started after installing a new app, try uninstalling it temporarily to see if it resolves the problem.
Hardware Checks and Cleaning
- Clean the Keyboard: Use compressed air to gently blow away dust and debris from between the keys. You can also try a soft brush or a microfiber cloth to clean the keycaps.
- Check for Physical Damage: Inspect the keyboard for any visible damage, such as spilled liquids or broken keys. If you notice any damage, you may need to have your keyboard repaired or replaced.
Advanced Troubleshooting
- Reset NVRAM/PRAM: Resetting the NVRAM (or PRAM on older models) can sometimes help resolve keyboard issues. Follow Apple’s instructions for resetting NVRAM/PRAM on your specific MacBook Air model.
- Reset the SMC: Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC) can also help with hardware-related issues. Refer to Apple’s guide on resetting the SMC.
- Safe Mode: Boot your Mac into Safe Mode to check if any third-party software is causing conflicts.
Table: Potential Causes and Solutions
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| Software Glitch | Restart your Mac, check accessibility settings, verify keyboard layout, update macOS, uninstall conflicting apps |
| Dust and Debris | Clean the keyboard with compressed air, soft brush, or microfiber cloth |
| Physical Damage | Contact Apple Support for repair or replacement |
| NVRAM/PRAM issue | Reset NVRAM/PRAM |
| SMC issue | Reset the SMC |
| Third-party software conflict | Boot into Safe Mode |
If none of the above solutions work, it’s highly recommended to contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service provider for further diagnosis and repair.
A malfunctioning keyboard can significantly disrupt your workflow and productivity on your MacBook Air 2020. However, before rushing to a repair shop, it’s worth trying a few troubleshooting steps to identify and fix the problem yourself. By systematically checking for software glitches, cleaning the keyboard, and exploring advanced solutions, you can often restore your keyboard’s functionality and get back to work without interruption.
Key Takeaways
- Check if Mouse Keys is off in System Settings.
- Ensure the correct keyboard layout is selected in Input Sources.
- Restart the Mac and reset PRAM or NVRAM if needed.
Identifying the Issue
When a MacBook Air 2020 has a keyboard problem, it might be due to software or hardware issues. Here, we break down the common causes and how to start troubleshooting.
Preliminary Troubleshooting
Start by checking basic settings. Ensure Mouse Keys is off by going to the Apple menu > System Settings > Accessibility. Ensure Input Sources is correct by selecting the right keyboard layout in System Settings > Keyboard. If the Input menu is not visible, turn it on.
Restart the MacBook Air to see if the issue resolves. If not, connecting an external keyboard can help determine if the built-in keyboard is faulty. Try safe mode, which can disable problematic startup apps. Power off, then restart while holding the Shift key. Release it when the login window appears.
Software-Related Problems
Sometimes, the keyboard issues stem from software glitches. Ensure the latest macOS updates are installed. Go to the Apple menu > System Settings > Software Update. Update your software if needed. Resetting the NVRAM/PRAM might help. Turn off the laptop and turn it on again. Immediately hold the Command + Option + P + R keys until the Apple logo appears and disappears twice.
Check Bluetooth settings to make sure another device isn’t interfering with your keyboard. Disable Bluetooth temporarily to rule out interference. Lastly, verify recently installed apps do not affect keyboard functionality. Uninstall or update any suspicious apps.
Hardware-Related Problems
If software checks yield no results, the problem may be hardware-related. First, inspect for dust or debris under the keys. Use compressed air to clean the keyboard. Hardware issues might arise from a faulty logic board connection. In this case, consulting or visiting an Apple Store for diagnostics is advised.
Another common issue could be a puffed-up battery, which can misalign the keyboard cable. Visually inspect the MacBook’s battery for swelling. If battery swelling is identified, seek professional repair services immediately to avoid further damage. If the logic board or the trackpad and keyboard connection is suspected to be faulty, professional hardware inspection is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common issues with the MacBook Air 2020 keyboard, providing clear steps for troubleshooting and solutions.
Why is my MacBook Air keyboard not typing on some keys?
Some keys may stop working due to dirt or dust under the keys. Check if Mouse Keys is turned off in System Settings. A software issue or a hardware malfunction could also be the cause.
How can I fix a MacBook Air 2020 M1 keyboard that has stopped working?
Start by restarting your MacBook. Make sure the correct keyboard layout is selected in System Settings. If the problem persists, try entering Safe Mode and then return to regular mode. As a last resort, reinstall the macOS.
What could cause a MacBook keyboard to make clicking noises without typing any letters?
Clicking noises without actual typing could be due to “Sticky Keys” being enabled. Check the Accessibility settings in System Settings to ensure that Sticky Keys is turned off.
How do I unlock the keyboard on my MacBook Air?
To unlock the keyboard, go to System Settings and check that Mouse Keys is disabled. Also, check that Input Sources are correctly set and that you have the correct keyboard layout selected.
Is there a known issue with MacBook Air 2020 keyboards not functioning correctly?
Yes, there have been reports of MacBook Air 2020 keyboards having issues, such as keys not registering or typing erratically. Some users have also experienced hardware-related problems.
What steps should I take to resolve a non-responsive keyboard at the login screen of a MacBook?
If the keyboard does not respond at the login screen, connect an external keyboard to log in. Once logged in, check the keyboard settings and update the software if needed. If the issue continues, consider reinstalling macOS.
