Are you a proud MacBook Air user? While this sleek and lightweight laptop is a joy to use, it’s not immune to occasional hiccups. In this blog post, we’ll explore 19 common MacBook Air problems and provide practical solutions to keep your device running smoothly. Whether you’re dealing with charging issues, app glitches, display glitches, or other common problems, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Apple MacBook Air charging problems
1 – My MacBook Air won’t turn on
Check power and battery
Before diving into complex solutions, let’s cover the basics. Ensure that your MacBook has sufficient power.
Charge the battery: Connect your MacBook to a power source using the original charger. Wait a few minutes and check if any lights indicate charging. If not, try a different power outlet or charger.
Hard Restart: Sometimes, the system gets stuck. Press and hold the Power button for at least 10 seconds. Release it and then, press the Power button again to turn on your MacBook device.
Look for screen issues
A black screen can make it seem like the laptop won’t turn on, even if it’s functional.
Check the screen: Look closely at the screen. Does it appear completely black, or is there a faint glow? If the latter is true, it might be a backlight issue.
Backlight Problems: If the screen is dimly lit, adjust the brightness using the keyboard shortcuts (usually F1 and F2). If that doesn’t work, consider contacting Apple Support.
Check the hardware and peripherals
Sometimes external factors interfere with startup. Try doing this:
Disconnect Peripherals: Unplug all external devices (mouse, USB drives, etc.) and try turning on your MacBook device.
Check RAM and Storage: If you’ve recently upgraded RAM or storage, remove those upgrades temporarily. Faulty hardware can cause startup issues.
2 – My MacBook Air battery is not charging
Cover the basics first:
Check the power adapter and outlet: Make sure you use the original Apple power adapter and a functioning power outlet. Sometimes, a faulty adapter or outlet can prevent proper charging.
Inspect the Cable: Check the power cable for any visible damage, fraying, or kinks. Damaged cables may not deliver power effectively.
Reset the System Management Controller (SMC):
The SMC manages power-related functions, including battery charging. Resetting it can often resolve charging issues.
This is how you can reset it:
Completely shut down your laptop.
Connect the MagSafe adapter: If you have a MagSafe adapter, connect it to your MacBook.
Press key combinations: Simultaneously, press and hold the Shift, Control, Option, and power keys for about 10 seconds.
Release the keys: Release all keys and then, press the Power button to turn on your MacBook.
Check charging: After booting up, check if the battery is now charging.
Inspect the MagSafe connector and port:
The MagSafe connector (the part that attaches to your MacBook) and the port can accumulate dust or debris, affecting charging.
Clean the MagSafe connector: Gently wipe the MagSafe connector with a soft, lint-free cloth. Remove any dirt or debris.
Inspect the port: Examine the MagSafe port on your MacBook. Ensure there’s no visible damage or foreign objects inside.
Try a different outlet: Sometimes, the power outlet itself may be faulty. Plug your adapter into a different outlet to check if it charges.
Check battery health
Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner.
Go to “About This Mac” > “System Report” > “Power.”
Look for “Cycle Count.” If it’s significantly high (e.g., over 1000), your battery may need replacement.
Image source: Apple support
3 – My MacBook Air shuts off when I unplug it
Review battery health and calibration
Sometimes, incorrect battery calibration can cause unexpected shutdowns.
Calibrate the battery:
Fully Charge: Plug in your MacBook and allow it to charge to 100%.
Use It Unplugged: Unplug the laptop and use it until the battery drains completely (until it shuts down).
Recharge: Plug it back in and charge it to 100% again.
Repeat: Perform this calibration cycle periodically to ensure accurate battery readings.
Check energy-saving settings: macOS has energy-saving features that control power management.
Check Energy saver preferences:
Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner.
Go to “System Preferences” > “Energy Saver.”
Adjust settings for “Battery” and “Power Adapter.”
Ensure that “Put hard disks to sleep when possible” is checked but not overly aggressive.
Adjust the “Computer sleep” and “Display sleep” sliders as needed.
Image source: Rocket Yard Blog
Check the software and updates:
Outdated software or system glitches can impact power management.
Software updates
Go to “System Preferences” > “Software Update.”
Install any available macOS updates.
4 – My MacBook Air battery is draining fast
Check high energy-consuming apps:
Some apps consume more power than others, leading to faster battery drain.
Activity monitor: Open “Activity Monitor” (you can find it in the Utilities folder within Applications). Look for processes or apps with high energy impact. If any app is consuming too much CPU energy, force quit it.
Background apps: Close unnecessary apps running in the background. Some apps continue to consume power even when not actively used.
Adjust the display brightness and sleep settings:
Display brightness and sleep settings significantly affect battery life.
Brightness: Lower the screen brightness to a comfortable level. Bright displays consume more power.
Sleep Settings: Go to “System Preferences” > “Energy Saver.” Adjust the “Computer sleep” and “Display sleep” sliders. Set shorter sleep times to preserve power.
Image source: MacPaw
Update macOS and Reset SMC:
Software updates and system management can impact battery performance.
Software updates: Ensure your MacBook Air is running the latest macOS version. Go to “System Preferences” > “Software Update” and install any available updates.
Reset SMC: Reset the System Management Controller (SMC) as mentioned earlier. It can help recalibrate power-related functions.
Check for any background processes
Disable unnecessary startup items. Go to “System Preferences” > “Users & Groups” > “Login Items.” Remove any apps you don’t need at startup.
Check for resource-intensive processes (e.g., large file transfers, backups) that might be running in the background.
5 – My Mackbook Air won’t shut down
Close any active apps: Are there any warning indicators, notifications, or active apps that you should check before shutting down?
Look for any signs that something is going on behind the scenes, such as apps bouncing around in the Dock.
Wait 5 to 10 minutes to ensure if there is a problem, and then take a quick look around MacOS.
Check for frozen applications: To end an app, right-click on it and select Force Quit. Check to see if functionality is restored. If you simply see Quit, press and hold the Option key, which should change to Force Quit.
Force a complete shutdown: Hold down the Power button for at least 10 seconds to turn the Mac off. However, this can be harmful if your MacBook is installing updates. Be sure that everything is closed and that your MacBook isn’t just installing updates.
MacBook Air App problems
6 – Facetime isn’t working on Mackbook Air
Check for software updates
Outdated macOS or FaceTime versions can lead to compatibility issues. Ensure that your MacBook Pro is running the latest macOS version. To check for updates:
Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner.
Select “System Preferences.”
Choose “Software Update.”
If updates are available, install them.
Image source: Carleton University
Verify the internet connection
A stable internet connection is crucial for FaceTime. Follow these steps:
Connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network.
Check if other devices on the same network can access the internet.
Restart your Wi-Fi router if needed.
Check the privacy settings
FaceTime requires access to your camera and microphone. Make sure the privacy settings allow FaceTime to use them:
Go to “System Preferences” > “Security & Privacy.”
Click the “Privacy” tab.
Select “Camera” on the left panel.
Ensure that “FaceTime” is checked.
Repeat the same for “Microphone.”
Image source: Apple support
Verify your Apple ID
Sometimes authentication errors occur due to incorrect Apple ID settings. Follow these steps:
Open FaceTime.
Click “FaceTime” in the menu bar and select “Preferences.”
Ensure that your Apple ID is correctly set up.
Sign out and sign back in if necessary.
7 – An app has frozen in my MacBook Air
Force quit the app
When an app stops responding, you can force quit it. Here’s how:
Click on the Apple start button in the top-left corner of your screen.
Choose “Force Quit” from the dropdown menu.
In the window that appears, select the frozen app and click “Force Quit.”
If the app quit successfully, reopen it by clicking “Reopen” in the dialog.
Note that force quitting may cause you to lose any unsaved changes in the app.
Relaunch the app
Relaunch: After force quitting the app, try relaunching it:
Right-click or Control-click on the app icon in the Dock.
Choose “Quit.”
Reboot your Mac.
Open the app again and check if it’s functioning correctly.
If the same issue still persists, consider updating the app.
Update the application
Check for Updates: Sometimes, outdated apps can cause freezing and performance issues. Ensure that the app is up to date:
Visit the App Store.
Go to the “Updates” tab.
If an update is available for the problematic app, install it.
Restart the app and see if the freezing problem is resolved.
8 – AirPrint not working
Check printer compatibility and Wi-Fi network
Check Printer Compatibility: Ensure that your printer model supports AirPrint. You can find this information on Apple’s official website or by searching online for your specific printer model.
Wi-Fi Network: Make sure your MacBook Air and the printer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. AirPrint relies on local network communication, so network consistency is crucial.
Perform a hardware reset
Reset Devices in Order:
Turn off your printer.
Turn off your MacBook Air.
For MacBook Air with Touch Bar (X or later):
Press and hold one of the volume buttons and the side button until the power-off slider appears.
Drag the slider to the right.
Unplug your Wi-Fi router for 15 seconds.
Reconnect your router by plugging it back in.
Turn your MacBook Air back on.
Wait for it to connect to Wi-Fi.
Turn on your printer.
Update macOS
Ensure that your MacBook is running the latest macOS version. Outdated software can cause compatibility issues.
Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner.
Select System Preferences.
Choose Software Update.
Install any available updates.
9 – MacBook displays a flashing question mark on startup
Reset NVRAM
NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory) stores essential system information, including boot settings. Resetting NVRAM can resolve startup issues. Follow these steps:
Shut down your MacBook by clicking the Apple logo in the top-left corner and selecting “Shut Down.”
Wait a few seconds to ensure a proper shutdown.
Turn on your MacBook and immediately press and hold the keys Command (⌘) + Option + P + R.
Release the keys after about 20 seconds. During this process, you may hear the startup sound or see the Apple logo multiple times.
If you have an Intel-based Mac, follow these steps. For Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3) Macs, NVRAM resets automatically when needed.
Select the correct startup disk
Choose the Right Startup Disk: Sometimes the Mac can’t locate the designated startup disk, leading to the flashing question mark. Follow these steps to select the correct startup disk:
Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of the menu bar.
Select System Preferences.
Go to General and then choose Startup Disk.
Select the appropriate startup disk (internal or external).
If prompted, enter your admin password.
Repair the startup disk
Repair Disk Using Disk Utility:
If you can’t see your startup drive, open Disk Utility from the macOS Utilities window.
Click on your startup drive and select the First Aid tab.
Click Run to repair any disk errors.
If the repair completes successfully, select the disk in Startup Disk under the Apple menu and restart your MacBook.
MacBook Air display problems
10 – MacBook Air screen isn’t working
Check power and connections
Verify Power: First, ensure that your MacBook Air is powered on. Look for signs of activity, such as the Caps Lock key lighting up or the keyboard feeling slightly warm. If you notice these signs, the issue might be with the screen itself.
Check Power Cord: Connect your MacBook Air to the power cord and see if it turns on. Sometimes a drained battery can cause display issues. Try using a different power cord to rule out any cable-related problems.
Remove manual upgrades
Remove Upgrades: If you’ve recently upgraded your MacBook (e.g., added memory), consider removing those upgrades. Sometimes new hardware can cause unexpected issues. If you’ve made any internal or external modifications, revert them and check if the screen works.
External display test
Connect an External Display: If your MacBook Air has a faulty built-in display, connecting an external monitor can help diagnose the problem. Use a compatible cable (such as USB-C to HDMI) to connect your MacBook to an external display. If the external display works, the issue likely lies with the built-in screen.
11 – Macbook Air screen is flickering
Check for loose connections
Cables and Accessories: Ensure that all cables connecting your MacBook Air to external displays or accessories are securely plugged in. Sometimes loose connections can cause flickering. If you’re using an external display, unplug and replug it to see if that resolves the issue.
Adjust display settings
Display Preferences: Experiment with different display settings to see if it helps. Here’s how:
Click on the Apple logo and select System Preferences.
Choose Displays.
Try adjusting the resolution and refresh rate settings. Sometimes certain combinations can cause flickering.
Image source: Apple support
12 – MacBook Air doesn’t recognize external display
Check cables and connections
Cable Verification: Start by checking the cables and adapters you’re using. Ensure that you’re using the correct cables and adapters for your specific MacBook Air model and the external display. Sometimes a loose or faulty cable connection can prevent proper recognition.
Secure Connections: Confirm that all cables are securely plugged in. Inspect both ends of the cable: one connected to your MacBook Air and the other to the display. If using an adapter, ensure it’s firmly connected as well.
Verify adapter compatibility
Adapter Compatibility: If you’re using an adapter (e.g., USB-C to HDMI), ensure that your monitor and cable combo is compatible with your Mac. Different Mac models have varying port configurations (USB-C, Thunderbolt, etc.). Refer to your Mac’s specifications to determine the correct adapter type.
Dock Considerations: If you’re using a dock, check the manufacturer’s support site for any available driver updates. Some docks require specific drivers for proper functionality.
Restart and sleep
Restart Your Mac: Sometimes a fresh start can resolve issues. Restart your Mac with the external display connected.
Sleep and Wake: Put your Mac to sleep briefly, then wake it up. This action can trigger a re-detection of connected displays.
13 – Mac screen goes black
Run apple diagnostics
Run Apple’s built-in hardware diagnostics by restarting your Mac and holding down D during startup.
Check external devices
Peripheral Devices: Unplug all peripherals except the keyboard and mouse. Sometimes an external device can interfere with display functionality.
External Display: If you’re using an external display, ensure it’s functioning correctly. Connect it to another Mac or device to verify. Faulty cables or adapters can cause black screens.
Reset System Management Controller (SMC):
For MacBooks with a T2 chip (Apple silicon):
Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds to turn off your Mac.
Press and hold the power button again to load startup options.
Click Options, then choose Continue.
Use Disk Utility to repair your startup disk if needed.
If the issue persists, consider reinstalling macOS.
For other Macs:
Turn off your Mac.
Press and release the power button.
Immediately press and hold Command (⌘)-R until you see the Apple logo or spinning globe.
Use Disk Utility to repair your startup disk.
If the problem continues, consider reinstalling macOS.
14 – My MacBook screen is showing lines
Restart your Mac
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve display-related issues.
Run Maintenance Scripts
Maintenance scripts automatically clean up system logs and temporary files on your Mac. However, they might not run as often as needed. You can manually run them using an app like CleanMyMac X:
Download and install CleanMyMac X (you can get it for free).
Open the app and go to the Maintenance module.
Click Run to execute the maintenance scripts. This can help if the issue is caused by software glitches.
Monitor temperature
Overheating can sometimes cause display anomalies. Make sure your MacBook isn’t running too hot. Place it on a flat surface and allow it to cool down if necessary.
Other Problems
15 – MacBook Air Bluetooth not working
Check pairing status:
Ensure that your Bluetooth device is correctly paired and connected to your MacBook Air.
Go to System Preferences > Bluetooth and verify the pairing status.
If needed, click “Connect” next to your device or use the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar to reconnect.
Reconnect your Bluetooth device:
Turn off your Bluetooth device and then turn it back on.
Check the battery level of your device.
If it doesn’t reconnect automatically, manually connect it via System Preferences or the Bluetooth menu.
Proximity matters:
Bring your MacBook Air and Bluetooth devices closer together.
Remove other devices (phones, cameras, power cables) from your workspace that might cause interference.
Avoid obstacles:
Don’t place materials like metal or concrete between your Mac and Bluetooth devices.
16 – MacBook Air WIFI not working
Check Wi-Fi status
Click on the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar (top-right corner) and verify that Wi-Fi is turned on.
If it’s off, click “Turn Wi-Fi On.”
Restart your MacBook Air and router
Sometimes a simple restart can resolve connectivity issues.
Turn off your MacBook Air, unplug your router, wait for a minute, and then plug it back in.
Turn on your MacBook Air and check if the Wi-Fi is working properly.
If you still experience connection issues, we recommend contacting Apple Support.
Forget and reconnect to the Wi-Fi network
Go to System Preferences > Network.
Select Wi-Fi from the left sidebar.
Click the “Advanced” button.
Under the “Wi-Fi” tab, select your network and click the minus (-) button to forget it.
Reconnect to the network by clicking the plus (+) button and choosing your network.
17 – MacBook Air USB port not working
Inspect the USB port:
Carefully examine the USB port for any physical damage, debris, or bent pins.
If you notice any issues, gently clean the port using compressed air or a soft brush.
Try different USB devices:
Connect other USB devices (such as a flash drive, external hard drive, or mouse) to the same port.
If none of these work, the issue might be with the port itself.
Check device compatibility:
Ensure that the USB device you’re connecting is compatible with your MacBook Air.
Some older devices may require additional drivers or updates.
18 – MacBook Air touchpad problems
Check trackpad settings:
Go to System Preferences > Trackpad.
Ensure the trackpad is enabled (check the box next to “Enable Trackpad”).
Adjust other settings as needed (such as tracking speed and gestures).
Clean the trackpad surface:
Sometimes dirt or debris can affect trackpad responsiveness.
Gently wipe the trackpad surface with a clean, lint-free cloth.
19 – MacBook Air is overheating
Ventilation and surface:
Ensure that your MacBook Air has proper ventilation.
Place it on a flat, hard surface (like a table) to allow air circulation.
Avoid using it on soft surfaces (such as beds or couches) that can block air vents.
Room temperature:
High ambient temperatures can exacerbate overheating.
Use your MacBook Air in a cool environment whenever possible.
Monitor background processes
Background processes can strain your MacBook Air’s resources and lead to overheating.
Activity monitor: Open Activity Monitor (found in Applications > Utilities). Check for any processes consuming excessive CPU or memory. Quit unnecessary applications or processes.
Browser tabs and extensions: Browsers with multiple tabs and extensions can be resource-intensive. Close unused tabs and disable unnecessary extensions.
FAQs
What is the life expectancy of a MacBook Air?
On average, a MacBook Pro is expected to last around 7–10 years, and a MacBook Air for 5–7 years123.
The actual lifespan depends on factors like usage frequency, tasks performed, and battery care.
MacBook longevity can be affected by the quality of care for the battery and other components.
What is the downside of a MacBook Air?
Price: MacBooks, and laptops, including the MacBook Air, can be overpriced compared to similar Windows machines.
Limited Hardware Upgrades: MacBook Airs have minimal upgrade options. Components like RAM and storage are often non-upgradable.
Software Support: macOS has less third-party software support compared to Windows.
No Windows Support on Apple Silicon Macs: Newer MacBook Airs with Apple Silicon chips cannot run Windows via Boot Camp.
Proprietary Hardware and Repair Limitations: Apple’s closed system design restricts user upgrades and self-repair options.
Why my MacBook Air is not working?
Power Issues: Check if the battery is charged, try different power cords, and perform a hard restart.
Screen Issues: Troubleshoot screen problems using a hard restart or check for hardware failures.
Battery Issues: If the battery won’t charge or drains quickly, consider battery replacement.
Overheating: Ensure proper ventilation and address any overheating issues.
Sound and Trackpad Problems: Diagnose and fix sound or trackpad issues.
How do I know if my Macbook has problems?
Use Apple Diagnostics (or Apple Hardware Test) to check for hardware issues.
It helps diagnose internal hardware components like the logic board, memory, and wireless components.
If no hardware problems are found, consider software-related issues or reinstalling macOS.
Remember that professional assistance may be necessary if you encounter persistent issues with your MacBook Air.
Summing Up
We hope this article has helped troubleshoot the most common MacBook Air problems you may face. Remember, technology can be finicky, but with the right guidance, you can overcome most obstacles.
If you’re still facing Mackbook Air issues or need personalized assistance, don’t hesitate to contact our Mac IT support team. Whether it’s a battery hiccup, a stubborn app, or a mysterious display glitch, we’re here to help you get back on track.
We can be your Apple Support Wingman, and we’re just a message away!
You May Also Like
What Is Mac Mobile Device Management?
