5-minute checks
Good to know: on Force Touch trackpads, the click is simulated by the Mac. Apple points out that such a trackpad won’t click when it’s inactive, for example when the Mac is switched off. So this isn’t a fault. Older trackpads have a genuine mechanical click.
The causes
- Swollen battery: it pushes the trackpad up and stops it from clicking. This is the first cause to rule out, for your own safety.
- Damaged trackpad: the pointer moves, but clicking no longer works or the click stays pressed down. A worn click mechanism, liquid damage or an impact can be the cause.
- Trackpad flex cable: if the trackpad doesn’t respond at all, often after a repair, its flex cable has probably been reconnected incorrectly or is damaged. Its connector latches are very fragile.
- macOS setting: an incorrectly set click pressure or the accessibility option that ignores the built-in trackpad. The checks above will rule this out.
The fix: which part to replace
- Battery replacement: if the trackpad is raised, replace the battery first. You can easily find the right battery for your model. If the click doesn’t come back with the new battery, the trackpad will also need replacing.
- Trackpad replacement: if the pointer moves but clicking no longer works, the trackpad needs replacing. Here are all the trackpads available.
- Trackpad flex cable: if the trackpad doesn’t respond at all and its flex cable is damaged, the cable can be replaced. Here are all the flex cables and cables available.
On some MacBooks, such as the MacBook Air A1466, the keyboard connects underneath the trackpad. If your keyboard isn’t responding either, see our article on a MacBook keyboard that’s stopped responding.
Find the right part for my Mac
Not sure which model you have? Quickly identify the parts you need for this repair without making a mistake.
Need help with the repair? We offer step-by-step guides to walk you through replacing the part. Our team of technicians is also on hand if you need any advice.
