MacBook Pro/Air Won't Charge: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

1. Power Source

• Test the outlet with another device
• Try a different power outlet
• Check if the circuit breaker has tripped
• Avoid power strips - plug directly into wall outlet

2. Cable and Adapter

• Inspect for visible damage or fraying
• Check for bent pins (MagSafe)
• Clean connectors with a dry cloth
• Ensure adapter wattage matches your MacBook model

3. Connection Points

• Remove debris from charging port
• For MagSafe: Check for metal particles on connector
• For USB-C: Try different ports if available
• Ensure cable is fully inserted

LED Indicator Meanings

• Green Light: Battery fully charged
• Amber Light: Charging in progress
• No Light: Connection issue or adapter problem

Common MagSafe Problems

• Worn cable near connector (common failure point)
• Damaged DC-In board inside MacBook
• Faulty MagSafe adapter
• Magnetic interference from nearby objects

USB-C Troubleshooting

• Try all USB-C ports - some may still work
• Use only Apple-certified cables and adapters
• Check for lint or debris in ports
• Ensure cable supports power delivery

Common USB-C Problems

• Port damage from frequent plugging/unplugging
• Logic board issues affecting power delivery
• Incompatible third-party accessories
• Software issues preventing charging

SMC Reset (Intel Macs)

The System Management Controller handles power-related functions:

1. Shut down your MacBook
2. Press and hold: Shift + Control + Option + Power button
3. Hold for 10 seconds
4. Release all keys
5. Press power button to start

For Apple Silicon Macs

M1/M2/M3 Macs handle SMC functions differently:

1. Shut down completely
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Press and hold power button for 10 seconds
4. Release and wait a few seconds
5. Press power button to start

View Battery Information

1. Hold Option key and click battery icon in menu bar
2. Or go to: Apple Menu → System Information → Power
3. Check "Condition" and "Cycle Count"

Battery Conditions

• Normal: Battery functioning normally
• Replace Soon: Battery holding less charge
• Replace Now: Battery significantly degraded
• Service Battery: Battery needs professional attention

Update macOS

Software bugs can cause charging issues:

1. Connect to power (if possible)
2. Go to System Settings → General → Software Update
3. Install any available updates

Safe Mode Test

Boot in Safe Mode to rule out software conflicts:

1. Shut down MacBook
2. Press power, then immediately hold Shift
3. Release Shift when you see login window
4. Test charging in Safe Mode

Best Practices

• Always use genuine Apple adapters or certified alternatives
• Avoid extreme cable bending
• Keep ports clean and dry
• Unplug by gripping the connector, not the cable
• Store adapters properly when traveling