Troubleshooting Guide: Mac Won't Turn On

Is your Mac not turning on? Don't worry; you can try troubleshooting this issue yourself with the help of this comprehensive guide. Our experts have compiled a set of solutions to help you resolve the problem of a Mac that won't turn on. Follow these troubleshooting steps, and if you need further assistance, feel free to contact us using the information provided below.

 

Table of Contents

  • Check Power Connection
  • Reset SMC
  • Perform a Power Cycle
  • Check for Signs of Life
  • Check for Display Issues
  • Contact Apple Support

 

Check Power Connection

Start by checking the power connection of your Mac to ensure it's properly connected. Follow these steps:

  1. Check if the power cord is securely plugged into your Mac and the power outlet.
  1. If using a power adapter, ensure the adapter's LED is lit, indicating it's receiving power.
  1. Try connecting your Mac to a different power outlet to rule out any issues with the current outlet.

By ensuring a proper power connection, you can eliminate any potential power-related issues causing your Mac not to turn on.

 

Reset SMC

Resetting the SMC (System Management Controller) on your Mac can help resolve power-related issues and potentially fix the problem of your Mac not turning on. Follow these steps to reset the SMC:

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  1. Depending on your Mac model, perform the appropriate steps:
        • For Macs with Apple silicon: Press and hold the power button for about 10 seconds, then release it. Wait a few seconds, then press the power button again to turn on your Mac.
        • For Intel-based Macs: Disconnect the power cord from your Mac and wait for 15 seconds. Reconnect the power cord, then wait for another 5 seconds before pressing the power button to turn on your Mac.
  1. Once your Mac has restarted, check if it turns on.

 

Perform a Power Cycle

Performing a power cycle can help reset any temporary hardware or software issues that may be preventing your Mac from turning on. Follow these steps to perform a power cycle:

  1. Disconnect all peripherals, including external displays, printers, and USB devices, from your Mac.
  1. Shut down your Mac.
  1. Disconnect the power cord from your Mac.
  1. Press and hold the power button for about 10 seconds.
  1. Reconnect the power cord to your Mac.
  1. Press the power button to turn on your Mac.

By performing a power cycle, you can clear any residual power and start afresh.

 

Check for Signs of Life

After attempting the above troubleshooting steps, check for any signs of life from your Mac. Look for the following indicators:

  • Does the power LED light up when you press the power button?
  • Can you hear any startup chime or fan noise?
  • Does the Caps Lock key light up when pressed?

These signs can provide clues about the underlying issue and help determine the next troubleshooting steps.

 

Check for Display Issues

Sometimes, the Mac may turn on, but the display remains blank. In such cases, check for display-related issues. Follow these steps:

  1. Ensure the display is properly connected to your Mac.
  1. Check if the brightness level of the display is set too low. Use the brightness adjustment keys on your keyboard to increase the brightness.
  1. Connect your Mac to an external display to see if the issue is with the built-in display.

By addressing display-related issues, you can ensure that your Mac is functioning correctly.

 

Contact Apple Support

If you've followed the above troubleshooting steps and your Mac still won't turn on, it's advisable to contact Apple Support. They have the expertise to assist you in such situations and can provide personalized guidance to resolve the problem.