MacBook Pro Cannot Be Charged – How to Fix It

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If your MacBook Pro is not charging, it could be due to a faulty charger, a software issue, or a hardware problem. This guide provides step-by-step solutions to troubleshoot and fix the issue.

Check the Power Adapter and Cable

Ensure You Are Using an Official Apple Charger
  • Use the original Apple charger and USB-C cable.
  • If using a third-party charger, ensure it is MFi-certified and supports the required power output.

Try a Different Power Outlet
  • Plug the charger into a different wall outlet.
  • If using a power strip, plug directly into the wall.

Inspect the Charging Cable and Port
  • Check the USB-C or MagSafe connector for dust, debris, or damage.
  • Clean the port using a soft brush or compressed air.
  • Try using a different USB-C cable or adapter if available.

Check macOS Charging Settings

Reset the System Management Controller (SMC)

If the MacBook is not recognizing the charger, resetting the SMC may help.

Reset SMC on Intel MacBooks
  1. Shut down your MacBook.
  2. Press and hold Shift + Control + Option + Power button for 10 seconds.
  3. Release the keys and turn on your Mac.

Reset SMC on Apple Silicon MacBooks
  1. Shut down your MacBook.
  2. Press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds.
  3. Wait a few seconds and turn the Mac back on.

Check Battery Health
  1. Click the Apple menu > System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).
  2. Go to Battery > Battery Health.
  3. If the status says Service Recommended, the battery may need to be replaced.

Disable Optimized Battery Charging
  1. Open System Settings > Battery.
  2. Toggle off Optimized Battery Charging to see if charging resumes.

Boot MacBook in Safe Mode

If the issue is caused by a software bug, Safe Mode can help diagnose it.

Steps to Boot in Safe Mode
  • Intel Mac: Hold Shift while pressing the Power button.
  • Apple Silicon Mac: Press and hold the Power button until startup options appear, then select Safe Mode.

Check if the MacBook charges in Safe Mode. If it does, a third-party app may be interfering.

Try Resetting PRAM/NVRAM (Intel Macs Only)

If charging issues persist, resetting NVRAM/PRAM may help.

Steps to Reset NVRAM/PRAM
  1. Shut down your MacBook.
  2. Press and hold Option + Command + P + R for 20 seconds.
  3. Release the keys and turn on your Mac.

Test with Another Charger or Mac
  • If possible, borrow another MacBook charger and test if it charges.
  • Try charging your Mac using a different USB-C port.

If your MacBook Pro still does not charge, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider for further diagnosis.