7 Ways to Fix MacBook Keyboard Backlight Not Working

MacBook's users sometimes face the problem that the keyboard backlight is not working or is too dim. In this article, we will tell you about the possible reasons why the MacBook keyboard backlight is not working, as well as offer a step-by-step guide on how to fix it yourself.

Why is my MacBook keyboard not lighting up

There can be several reasons why my Mac keyboard is not lighting up. Among the most common ones are the following:

• the backlight is off or the brightness is set to minimum;
• insufficient battery power or the device is not connected to a power source;
• power saving modes are enabled and the backlight is automatically turned off to save charge;
• system failure and hardware problems;
• macOS updates are not installed.

Fixing MacBook keyboard backlighting on MacBook

It is not necessary to have experience and knowledge to solve the problem with Macbook keyboard backlight yourself. It is enough to follow the manual and observe the sequence of actions suggested in the instructions. If the problem is related to software and system malfunctions, everything can be solved without a master. However, in some cases, you can't do MacBook keys light up without the help of a professional, but more on that later.

1. Checking the backlight brightness level

Before more serious steps, you should check the brightness level of the keyboard backlight. Sometimes it is simply set to the minimum value. How to do this depends on the device model.

For MacBook (Air and Pro) and iMac 2020-2022:

1. Click the Control Center icon on the menu bar.
2. Click on "Keyboard Brightness.
3. Drag the slider to the right.

For MacBook Air and iMac (2019 and earlier)

In this case, just press the F5 and F6 keys, which adjust the brightness level.

For MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (2019 and earlier):

1. Find the control bar on the right side of the touchpad. ,.
2. Press the left arrow.
3. Increase the value using the "Increase Brightness" button.

2. Deactivation of automatic backlight turning off

In the next step in case the MacBook keyboard backlight is not working, check the Auto Power Off settings. The auto light detection function for the keypad backlight may cause problems.

Follow the instructions to set the correct settings:

1. Press Command and Spacebar to open the Spotlight search box.
2. Type in "system settings" and press "Return".
3. In the new window, go down to the bottom and click the menu on the left select "Keyboard".
4. Uncheck the box next to "Adjust keyboard brightness in low light".
5. Close all windows and check the operation of the lights.

3. Checking the light sensor

If you are still unable to activate and turn on the Mac keyboard light, we recommend checking to see if the light sensor is facing an excessively bright light source. If it is, the device will reduce the brightness or turn off the backlighting of the keyboard altogether, reading incorrect information about the actual light level.

Also: MacBook Touch ID Not Working: 6 Steps to Fix It

4. Increasing the time to turn off the backlight after inactivity

In the next step, if you still have problems with the MacBook keyboard backlight not working, you will need to check the settings related to the inactivity time. If the time period is too short, the backlight may turn off very quickly. To fix this, go to the "Keyboard" tab through the system settings. Then find the item "Disable keyboard backlight after inactivity" and set a convenient time interval.

5. Disabling low power mode

When your MacBook is set to Low Power mode to save on power consumption , it can also cause problems. The device sets various hardware and software settings to extend battery life, including lowering the brightness of the keyboard backlight. For this reason, many people may assume that the backlight is malfunctioning.

To deactivate the low power mode:

1. In the top horizontal menu bar, click on the Apple icon and go to System Settings.
2. Tap on Battery to open the settings section.
3. Click on the list next to "Low Power Mode".
4. Press the desired option. Selecting "Never" disables the transition to low power mode, always keeping the keypad bright.

6. Restarting your MacBook

Another common cause of malfunctions is a software glitch, which is often resolved by rebooting the device and thus helps MacBooks have backlit keyboard.

To restart your Macbook, you need to do the following:

1. Click the Apple icon in the menu.
2. Select Restart.
3. Confirm the reboot.

7. Reset CMS/NVRAM

For Intel-based MacBook models, resetting the SMC may help resolve the problem. The System Management Controller is a chip that stores important data about your computer's hardware functions, including keyboard backlight brightness.

Follow the steps below to reset the SMC:

1. Click on the Apple symbol in the top left corner of the menu and click on "Turn off".
2. After 5-7 seconds, press the left Option and Control, Shift and Power button. Hold down the key combination for about 7-8 seconds. Release the keys when you hear the device startup beep.
3. Release all buttons and restart your MacBook.

Also: MacBook Finder Search Not Working: 9 Tips for a Quick Fix

MacBook keyboard backlight not working: When you need to go for service

In addition to software and hardware errors, the MacBook backlight may not work for other, more serious reasons. In such a case, you cannot solve the problem yourself, so it is better to contact a professional technician right away.

There are two main reasons why a specialist's help is required when the Mac keyboard is not lighting up.

• The first is the consequences of, for example, spilling liquid on the keyboard. Reflective layers are deformed and can no longer cope with their functions. As a consequence, in some places the keyboard is illuminated worse, and only the central parts of the keys are clearly visible. Cleaning the layers most often does not lead to anything, so experts recommend a complete replacement of the backlight.
• The second case when you need the help of a master is the failure of the light sensor or malfunction of the adjustment circuit on the motherboard.

On the website of AppleParts.io online store you can find original parts for different models of MacBooks. The company guarantees that all parts and components are from the manufacturer Apple, not fakes or cheap analogs. The entire range is tested before going on sale and works in accordance with the stated parameters.

If you're not sure you can replace the part yourself, order your MacBook repair from Apple Parts by mail. Send us your device, wait for the diagnostic results and invoice. After payment, you'll receive your MacBook back in 1-3 days.

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