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Apple Mac Trackpad Issues: Causes & Replacement Solutions

Updated: Apr 13, 2023


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If you’ve been having problems with your Apple Mac trackpad, you’re not alone. Trackpad issues are one of the most common problems on Macs and can be a significant source of frustration for users. Fortunately, some simple solutions can help you get back to work without any hiccups.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the common causes of Apple Mac trackpad issues, as well as some replacement solutions that can help you get back to work. We’ll also discuss some preventative measures you can take to ensure your trackpad remains in top condition.

What Are the Common Causes of Apple Mac Trackpad Failure?

1. Liquid Battery

Liquid battery damage is one of the most common causes of Apple Mac trackpad failure. If your laptop gets exposed to liquid, such as from a spilled drink, it can cause the trackpad to short out and stop working. This can be especially problematic if you're using your laptop in a public place, as you never know when someone might accidentally knock over a drink.

To prevent this type of damage, be sure to keep your laptop away from any liquids and always use a protective case when transporting it.

2. Physical Damage

Physical damage is another common cause of Apple Mac trackpad failure. If your laptop is dropped or bumped, then it can cause the trackpad to malfunction. This is especially true if the laptop is dropped on a hard surface, as the force of the impact can cause the trackpad to become dislodged or misaligned.

To avoid this type of damage, always use a protective case when transporting your laptop and keep it away from any hard surface.

3. Swollen Battery

The third most common cause of Apple Mac trackpad failure is a swollen battery. Over time, your laptop's battery can become swollen due to overcharging or simply due to age. This can cause the trackpad to become misaligned or even stop working altogether.

To prevent this type of damage, be sure not to overcharge your laptop and always use the appropriate charger for your device.

What Are the Repair and Replacement Solutions for a Broken Apple Mac Trackpad?

The first repair option for a broken Apple Mac trackpad is to replace the trackpad itself. This can be done by purchasing a new trackpad and installing it yourself or by taking your laptop to a repair shop and having the technician do the work for you. However, if the trackpad is severely damaged, it may be necessary to replace the entire laptop.

The second repair option is to replace the trackpad cable. This is usually done by locating the cable and then carefully disconnecting it from the laptop. Once the cable is disconnected, a new cable can be installed in its place. This is a relatively easy repair and can be done by most people with minimal effort.

The third repair option is to replace the trackpad driver. This is a more complicated repair and requires the user to download and install the latest driver from the Apple website. Once the driver is installed, the trackpad should be working correctly.

Finally, if all of the above repair options fail, then it may be necessary to replace the entire trackpad assembly. This is a more involved repair and requires the user to disassemble the laptop and remove the trackpad assembly. Once removed, a new assembly can be installed, and the laptop should work properly.

Final Thoughts

If your Apple Mac trackpad has broken, there are several repair and replacement solutions available. You can troubleshoot the issue yourself, take advantage of Apple’s repair program, get it repaired by a third-party repair shop, or purchase a new trackpad. The best option for you will depend on the cause of the problem and your budget.


Do you need a MacBook trackpad replacement? Bring your device to Mac.Infinity. Our trackpad repair services include free diagnostics, so you can accurately identify the problem, and we can deliver the best solution. Book a service appointment today!

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