MacBook Trackpad not working? 10 simple solution to fix it

Be it accessing your files, browsing the net, using your MacBook for entertaining purposes, or carrying out any simple routine tasks, you can’t use your system without the Trackpad. You can use an external Mouse sometimes, but no one likes to resort to it. Besides, using key combinations cannot entirely replace the trackpad function, nor will it make your work more accessible, even if you are a tech freak. It is annoying when you want to use your device, but the Trackpad does not work. Mac users often face the issue. So, we have covered you all if you are struggling with the MacBook Trackpad not clicking.

Your Trackpad might have dirt and grime, so clean it with a dry or lint-free cloth. Other recent app installations, not installing upgrades, and improperly setting up settings are also responsible for this issue.

There are several reasons for the MacBook Trackpad Not Working. All of the factors vary depending on your usage and device configurations. Depending on them, you can fix the MacBook or MacBook Pro Trackpad issue using the following methods!

• Disable Force Click from your MacBook
• Check System Preferences on Mac
• Connect an External Mouse to fix the MacBook Trackpad issue
• Reset Factory Settings for Trackpad
• Reset NVRAM OR PRAM to resolve any errors
• Reset the SMC (System Management Controller)
• Use or run the Apple Diagnostics Tool on a MacBook
• Update your MacBook with the latest macOS
• Reinstall Macintosh OS with Recovery
• Format your Hard Disk

Disable Force Click from your MacBook

You might not use your MacBook often, but Force Click is often enabled. When it is enabled, you must press the Trackpad rigidly to detect a touch. Thus, normal clicks would not be registered on your device if it is turned on.

Follow the steps given below to turn off Force. Click on MacBook:

• Press the Apple Logo and go to System Preferences.

• Click on Trackpad and navigate to the Point & Click Tab.

• Toggle Off the Force Click and Haptic Feedback option.

However, the System Preferences settings will be improperly configured if Force Click is not enabled. You have to check it.

Check System Preferences on Mac

Several options in System Preferences tend to mess up your Trackball’s functioning and thus lead to the issue. You can browse through the System Preferences to check if any option is improperly configured.

Connect an External Mouse to fix the MacBook Trackpad issue

Connecting an external mouse is the simplest way to prevent your chores from suffering. You cannot afford to spend time fixing the Trackpad when you are all piled up. So, connect an external mouse until you resolve the Trackball not clicking issue.

Reset Factory Settings for Trackpad

You would personalize your Mac to get the best user experience with your prerequisites. Often, any such trackpad settings cause the issue. To resolve them, you can reset Trackpad Settings to default. Many users reported that it had fixed their Trackpad not working issue.

Follow the steps given below to reset trackpad settings to default:

• Head over to System Preferences.

• Go to the Trackpad option.

• Uncheck the “Tap to Click” and Scroll Direction Settings checkbox to reset the trackpad settings to default.

If that does not work, nothing is wrong with your Trackball Settings, so you can reset the Non-Volatile Random Access Memory or Parameter Random Access Memory.

If you are skilled at technical things, you will often reset NVRAM or PRAM on your Mac to resolve errors.

Reset NVRAM OR PRAM to resolve any errors

However, if you have not, follow the steps below to reset it on your MAC!

• Turn off your MacBook.
• Afterward, press the power button to turn it on.
• While doing so, press the Command + P + R keys simultaneously for 15-20 seconds to boot your device.

The moment you hear the chimes, it indicates that your NVRAM or PRAM has reset to default.

Reset the SMC (System Management Controller)

Another method you can use is to reset the System Management Controller (SMC) to resolve several problems on your Mac, including the Trackpad not working. The process to reset the SMC differs depending on how old your Mac is.

Use or run the Apple Diagnostics Tool on a MacBook

MacBook has an inbuilt Diagnostic tool that detects problems, and you can fix them.

Follow the steps given below to run the Apple Diagnostics tool:

• Hold the power button to turn off the MacBook.
• Immediately press the D key from the keyboard, and it will boot.
• Release the D key when you see a dialog box asking you to choose a language.
• Choose the language and press the OK button.

The Apple Diagnostics tool will now run and detect your system. You will then be prompted to fix the issue it detects.

Update your MacBook with the latest macOS

Every device receives frequent updates. When you follow them up timely, you eliminate unprecedented errors on your device. Similarly, for your MacBook to perform optimally, you should update it. Check for any updates and download them—Reinstall Macintosh OS with Recovery.

Mac works on the Macintosh Operating System. In case of bugs, installing Macintosh with Recovery Mode helps eliminate glitches and will help you eliminate the Trackball error.

Follow the steps given below to reinstall macOS in Recovery Mode:

• Switch off your MacBook and press its power button.
• At the instant, press the Command + R keys simultaneously.
• As soon as the Apple logo appears, release the keys.
• You might be prompted to enter the password if you need one.
• The Recovery Mode menu pops up.
• Now, naReinstall Reinstall macOS.

All the methods mentioned above will help you eliminate the problem. However, if it does not work, there is something fishy with your Mac’s Hard Disk.

Format your Hard Disk

Before proceeding with this method, you must know it will clear all your data. Further, as necessary, you should backup your data to a Cloud Drive and then erase the data on your Hard Disk by formatting it!

Follow the steps given below to format your Hard Disk to solve the Trackpad not clicking issue on MacBook:

• Turn off your MacBook.
• Now, press the Power button to boot it up.
• Immediately press and hold the Command + R buttons simultaneously.
• The Apple logo appears on your screen, so release the keys.
• The Apple Recovery Mode appears; head over to Disk Utility.
• Click on the Macintosh HD system drive.
• Head over to the Erase option.
• You will be asked about the Format Option. Select APFS or Mac Extended and click on it.

After your hard disk is formatted, you can then reinstareinstallacOS.

The Final Words

If you are looking for solutions to the MacBook or MacBook Trackpadkpad not clicking, you have found your answer here. You can try all the above methods to get rid of it. If you have any queries, please let us know in the comments section below!