New 2019 16-inch MBP - kernel_task running super high CPU % usage hot or cold, system unresponsive

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AMBUS1972 Author

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New 2019 16-inch MBP - kernel_task running super high CPU % usage hot or cold, system unresponsive

Brand new 16-inch MBP(2019):

I'm experiencing (intermittently) this problem very often running macOS Big Sur 11.2.3; when kernel_task uses High CPU % (eg 450+ %) the system is very unresponsive, and it may b hot or cold whenever it happens. so, overeating may not the the causes. it drives me nuts.

Note I have done SMC Reset, VRAM reset, boot into safe boot, etc. and problems still persists.

Is this Hardware issue?

how to see kernel_task running internal tasks that may be causing that issue?

Thank you for your help.

CB

Posted on Apr 20, 2021 9:08 AM

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Answer 1

Stevi_S

Community Specialist

Apr 21, 2021 8:42 AM in response to AMBUS1972

Hi AMBUS1972,

Thanks for using Apple Support Communities. We understand you have some questions about CPU usage. We're happy to provide some information to help.

It looks like you've already reviewed in the information in the resource below. As you may have seen, one of the functions of kernel_task is to help manage CPU temperature by making the CPU less available to processes that are using it intensely. While you may not be using your Mac in warm temps, or even notice that your Mac feels warmer, that's because this function is performing as expected. When the CPU temperature decreases, kernel_task automatically reduces its activity. You can find more information about what's using energy here: View energy consumption in Activity Monitor on Mac

More about kernel_task here: If kernel_task is using a large percentage of your Mac CPU

Thanks

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New 2019 16-inch MBP - kernel_task running super high CPU % usage hot or cold, system unresponsive

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