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Fix a Mac that will not charge

We'll rule out power adapter, cable, and port, then isolate the cause—adapter fault, cable damage, or SMC/port issue—or tell you when to call a pro.

Troubleshooting · Home maintenance
10–25 min
What you'll need
  • Known-good power adapter (MagSafe or USB-C, compatible with your Mac)
  • Compressed air (optional, for port cleaning)
Step 1 of 5

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Steps

Goal: Rule out adapter and port, then isolate cable or SMC issue.

  • Confirm the power adapter is connected at both ends and the outlet works.
  • Good: Adapter and outlet confirmed. Proceed to Check adapter and port.
  • Bad: Try a different outlet and adapter.

Check adapter and port

Goal: Rule out adapter fault and port issues.

  • Reseat the adapter. Inspect the MagSafe connector or USB-C port for debris and damage. Try a known-good adapter.
  • If a different adapter works, replace the original. If not, the port or SMC may be the issue.
  • Good: Adapter and port confirmed. Proceed to Reset SMC.
  • Bad: Port damaged or loose—call Apple or a technician.

Reset SMC

Goal: Reset the charging circuit.

  • Intel: unplug, hold Shift+Control+Option+Power for 10 seconds, plug in, power on. Apple Silicon: unplug 30 seconds, plug in, power on.
  • Good: Mac charges. If not, check battery health in System Settings.
  • Bad: Battery may have failed—call Apple or a technician. If the battery is swollen, do not use the Mac—contact support.

When to get help

Call Apple or a technician if:

  • The charging port is damaged, loose, or sparking.
  • The battery is swollen—do not use; fire hazard.
  • A known-good adapter and outlet do not charge the Mac.

Verification

  • The battery icon shows charging when plugged in (lightning bolt).
  • Battery percentage increases over time.
  • No damage to the port or swelling of the battery.

Escalation ladder

Work from the device outward. Stop when the problem is fixed.

  1. Adapter and port Reseat connections; try different outlet and adapter.
  2. Reset SMC or unplug Intel: SMC reset. Apple Silicon: unplug 30 sec.
  3. Battery health Check battery icon and System Settings.
  4. Call a pro Port damaged, battery swollen, or adapter confirmed good but no charge.

What to capture if you need help

Before calling support or posting for help, have these ready. It speeds everything up.

  • Mac model and adapter specs
  • Whether a different adapter works
  • Port condition (loose, damaged)
  • Steps already tried

Is the power adapter firmly connected and the outlet working?

Loose connection and bad outlet are common causes.

Reseat the adapter at Mac and wall. Try a different outlet. Check MagSafe LED or USB-C charging indicator. Good: adapter connected, outlet works—check port. Bad: adapter or outlet faulty—try different adapter.

Yes No

You can change your answer later.

Is the charging port clean and undamaged?

Debris and port damage prevent charging.

Inspect port for debris, bent pins, looseness. Blow out dust. Clean and secure: reset SMC (Intel) or unplug 30 sec (Apple Silicon). Damaged or loose: call Apple or a technician.

Yes No

You can change your answer later.

Try a known-good adapter

Use a compatible adapter (same wattage for MagSafe, USB-C PD for USB-C Macs). If it charges, replace the adapter. If not, check port and reset SMC.

Done

Reset SMC (Intel) or unplug 30 sec (Apple Silicon)

Intel: unplug, hold Shift+Control+Option+Power 10 sec, plug in, power on. Apple Silicon: unplug 30 sec, plug in, power on. If still does not charge, call Apple or a technician.

Done

Call Apple or a technician

Port damaged, battery swollen, or adapter confirmed good but no charge. Port or battery replacement may be needed. Do not use a swollen battery—it can be a fire hazard.

Done

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

Frequently asked questions

Why would a Mac not charge?
Loose or faulty power adapter, bad outlet, damaged cable or port, or SMC glitch. Check adapter and cable first, then reset SMC.
Can I fix a Mac that will not charge myself?
Yes. Reseat connections, try a different adapter and outlet, reset SMC. If the port is damaged or the adapter is confirmed good but no charge, a technician may be needed.
When should I call a technician for Mac charging?
If the adapter and outlet work with another Mac, or the charging port is loose, damaged, or the MagSafe/USB-C connector does not attach properly. Port or logic board repair may require Apple.

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