So your MacBook Pro isn’t working, and you’re probably feeling a little anxious right now. Whether it’s not turning on, stuck on the loading screen, or just acting weird—it’s frustrating, especially if you rely on it for work or school. But before you rush to the Apple Store or start Googling “MacBook Pro replacement cost,” let’s walk through some easy troubleshooting steps you can try at home.
Common Signs Your MacBook Pro Isn’t Working
There are many ways your MacBook Pro can “not work,” including:
- It won’t turn on at all
- The screen is black, but you hear fan or drive noises
- It gets stuck on the Apple logo
- It won’t charge even when plugged in
- The keyboard or trackpad is unresponsive
- It turns on but won’t boot into macOS
Let’s break down each situation and how to fix it.
MacBook Pro Not Turning On? Try This First
Step 1 – Check the Power Source
It may sound obvious, but make sure your charger is actually plugged into a working outlet. Try a different wall socket or another charger (if you have one available).
Step 2 – Inspect the Charging Cable and Adapter
Check the charging brick and cable for signs of wear, fraying, or damage. A faulty charger can keep your MacBook from powering up.
Step 3 – Perform a Power Cycle
Hold down the Power button for at least 10 seconds, then release. Wait a few seconds and press it again. This simple step can often reboot a frozen Mac.
MacBook Pro Stuck on Apple Logo or Loading Bar
If your Mac powers on but doesn’t get past the Apple logo:
H3: Boot in Safe Mode
- Shut down your Mac.
- Hold the Shift key while turning it on.
- Keep holding until you see the login screen.
Safe Mode disables non-essential software and can help identify issues.
H3: Use Disk Utility in Recovery Mode
- Turn off your Mac.
- Turn it on and immediately hold Command + R.
- Choose Disk Utility > First Aid > Run.
If your disk has errors, this tool can fix them.
Spilled Water on Your MacBook Pro?
Water damage is serious—but not always fatal.
Immediate Steps to Take:
- Turn it off immediately (if it’s still on).
- Unplug all accessories.
- Flip it upside down like an inverted V (tent shape).
- Let it air dry for at least 48 hours before turning it back on.
If it still doesn’t work, it’s time to visit a repair shop, Preferably Apple-certified or well-reviewed third-party providers.
MacBook Pro Not Charging?
Check Battery Health
- Go to System Settings > Battery > Battery Health.
- If it says “Service Recommended,” your battery is likely the issue.
Reset the SMC (System Management Controller)
For Intel Macs:
- Turn off your MacBook.
- Hold Shift + Control + Option + Power for 10 seconds.
- Release all keys and turn it back on.
This can resolve issues related to battery, fans, and other power-related problems.
When to Call in the Pros
If none of the above works, your MacBook Pro may have a deeper hardware issue (logic board failure, dead SSD, etc.). At that point, it’s best to:
- Make a Genius Bar appointment via Apple Support.
- Or, use trusted third-party repair shops (usually more affordable).
- Be sure to back up your data if your Mac turns on even briefly.
FAQs About MacBook Pro Not Working
Q1: What if my MacBook turns on but the screen stays black?
Try shining a flashlight at the screen. If you see a faint image, your backlight may be dead. You’ll need professional repair.
Q2: Will Apple fix a water-damaged MacBook Pro?
Yes, but it’s expensive unless you have AppleCare+. Third-party repair shops may offer logic board cleaning for much cheaper.
Q3: How much does a MacBook Pro battery replacement cost?
Apple charges around $129–$199, depending on your model. Third-party options may be slightly less but check for quality assurance.
Q4: Should I try opening up my MacBook to fix it myself?
Unless you’re comfortable with delicate electronics, it’s safer to leave repairs to the pros. DIY fixes can void warranties.
Final Thoughts
If your MacBook Pro is not working, don’t panic! Many issues can be solved with basic troubleshooting, From power resets to Safe Mode and battery checks. When in doubt, always back up your data and consult a trusted repair technician.
Need more help? Drop a comment or head to your nearest Apple Store. Your Mac might just need a little TLC to get back to life.
