Is Your MacBook Pro's Screen Black? Troubleshooting Steps to Consider Before You Pay for a Repair

When the screen on your MacBook Pro turns black, it can be a real headache, especially if you're reliant on the computer for work or school. Before considering a costly repair, try these troubleshooting steps to ensure your Mac isn't under the impression that you've turned the brightness all the way down or have a battery issue. Here's how to check your display, power settings, and diagnose potential issues.

Check the Display Brightness

Ensure that the screen brightness isn't being turned all the way down by accident. You can do this through the brightness keys on your keyboard. Increase the screen brightness to see if the screen is actually on and working. If the issue persists, continue to the next steps.

Check Power and Battery

Plug in the Charger: If your battery is low or dead, plug in your MacBook to a power source to see if it helps. Use a multi-prong adapter to ensure it's working as it should.

Check the Charging Cable and Adapter: Sometimes, the issue isn't your battery but the charging cable or adapter. Ensure that both are functioning correctly.

Perform a Forced Restart

For MacBooks without a Touch ID sensor: Press and hold the Power button for about 10 seconds until the MacBook turns off. After a few seconds, press the Power button again to turn it back on.

For MacBooks with the Touch ID sensor (which also functions as the Power button): Press and hold the Touch ID sensor, and then press the Power button for about 10 seconds. Release all buttons and press the Power button again to start the MacBook.

Reset the SMC (System Management Controller)

For MacBooks with non-removable batteries: Turn off your MacBook. Unplug the power adapter and hold down the Shift Control Option keys on the left side and the Power button simultaneously for 10 seconds. Release the keys and press the Power button to start the MacBook.

For MacBooks with the Apple T2 Security Chip (2018 and later models): Shut down your MacBook. Hold the Power button for 10 seconds. Release the button and press the Power button again to start your MacBook.

Reset the NVRAM/PRAM

Shut down your MacBook. Turn it on and immediately press and hold the Option Command P R keys. Keep holding these keys for about 20 seconds; then release them and allow the MacBook to restart.

Check External Display Issues

Try disconnecting any external monitor to see if the built-in display starts working properly. Ensure that all connections are secure.

Try Booting in Safe Mode

To boot into Safe Mode: Turn off your MacBook. Hold the Shift key after pressing the Power button until you see the login screen. Safe Mode might help you diagnose and resolve the issue.

Run Apple Diagnostics

To run Apple Diagnostics: Turn off your MacBook. Turn it on and immediately press and hold the D key. This should bring up the Apple Diagnostics screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to test your MacBook for hardware issues.

Contact Apple Support or a Professional Repair Service

If none of the above steps work, the issue might be hardware-related, such as a failed display or an internal connection. At this point, it might be worthwhile to consult with Apple Support or a professional repair service like MakCity to schedule a diagnosis and repair. While repairs can be expensive, don't dismiss other potential issues that could be resolved through a simple fix.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you can determine if your MacBook Pro's black screen is a software issue, a battery issue, or a sign of hardware failure. Sometimes, taking the time to troubleshoot can save you both time and money.