6 Ways to Fix Trackpad Not Working on MacBook Air

When your MacBook Air's trackpad stops responding, it can disrupt your workflow and productivity. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting methods to help you get it back in working order.

How to Fix Your MacBook Air Trackpad if it’s not working:​

1: Force Shut Down and Restart​

• Hold the power button (Touch ID) on your MacBook Air M1 for about 10 seconds to force it to shut down.
• Wait a minute or two.
• Press the power button (Touch ID) again to turn your MacBook back on.

This method resets the system, which can be effective if the trackpad becomes unresponsive or feels stuck. It's especially useful after using external devices or from sleep mode.

2: Update macOS​

• Click on the Apple menu at the top left corner of the screen.
• Select "About This Mac."
• Click on "Software Update."

• If there's an update available, click "Update Now" and follow the on-screen instructions to install the update.

Updating macOS ensures that all hardware components work correctly and can fix common trackpad issues.

3: Reset Trackpad to Factory Settings​

• Open "System Preferences" from the Apple menu.
• Go to "Trackpad."
• Under the "Point & Click" tab, ensure "Tap to click" is unchecked.

• In the "Scroll & Zoom" section, make sure "Natural" scrolling is selected.

Restoring the default settings can resolve responsiveness issues, especially if they began after changes were made to these settings.

4: Reset NVRAM/PRAM​

• Shut down your MacBook Air M1.
• Press the power button, then immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R keys simultaneously for about 20 seconds.
• Release the keys after you hear the startup sound for the second time or see the Apple logo appear and disappear twice.

This reset can fix settings that affect the trackpad's behavior, improving its functionality.

5: Run Apple Diagnostics​

• Shut down your MacBook Air M1.
• Turn it on and immediately press and hold the D key until you see the Apple Diagnostics screen.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the diagnostics test.

Apple Diagnostics can identify hardware issues with the trackpad, providing a clear path to resolution.

6: Clean Your Trackpad​

• Turn off your MacBook Air.
• Use a slightly damp, lint-free cloth to gently clean the surface of the trackpad.

Regular cleaning prevents sensitivity and clicking issues caused by dirt or debris.

7: Disconnect All Peripherals​

• Disconnect any external devices, including mice, keyboards, and USB hubs, from your MacBook Air.
• Restart your MacBook Air to see if the trackpad’s performance improves.

External devices can sometimes interfere with the trackpad's operation. Removing them can help pinpoint the cause of the issue.

By following these methods, you can diagnose and potentially fix your MacBook Air M1 trackpad issues, ensuring it functions smoothly again.