Troubleshooting MacBook Pro Keyboard Issues

Summary

How to troubleshoot problems with the Apple MacBook Pro (2016-2019) keyboard. Issues include stuck keys, keys difficult to press, sticky keys, repeating characters, missing characters, double presses, or unresponsive keys.

If your computer is experiencing one of the issues listed above, that does not necessarily indicate that it needs a replacement keyboard or hardware service. Before requesting a repair, please follow the steps below.

Troubleshooting Keyboard Issues

Apple has acknowledged that keyboard issues are more common in the 2016-2019 model MacBook Pro than previous models, and they are offering a Quality Program (extended repair warranty) to have the computer serviced. Before requesting service please clean your keyboard utilizing these instructions.

Clean the Keyboard

Very often keyboard issues like the ones described above are caused by debris in the keyboard. Please follow the instructions in this article from Apple to clean your keyboard:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT205662

Please make sure you use SHORT bursts of air, and do not tip/angle the can, as it will shoot liquid propellant into your computer, which could damage the internal components.

If that doesn't seem to take care of things, please contact IT at our Help Center, where you can browse content, chat with a Service Desk agent, or submit a ticket, and we can look into setting up a loaner for you and getting your computer checked in for a repair.

Also, please back up your data by following the instructions in this handy article.