SMC Reset on MacBook Pro 2019

You are using the wrong instructions for a 2018-2020 Intel model which uses the T2 security chip. See the T2 section of the following Apple article for the correct instructions for the later models:

Reset the SMC of your Mac - Apple Support

LupoBello wrote:

Incorrect Behavior During SMC Reset on MacBook Pro 2019

Device and macOS Details:

Model: MacBook Pro 2019 (MacBookPro15,1)

macOS Version: Sonoma 14.7.1

GPU: Intel UHD Graphics 630 and Radeon Pro 555X

Expected SMC Reset Behavior:

To reset the SMC (System Management Controller) on this Mac model, the steps are as follows:

1.Shut down the Mac.

2. Press and hold the Shift + Control + Option keys on the left side of the keyboard for a few seconds. This step prepares the system for the reset when combined with the power button.

While still holding the three keys, add the power button and hold all four keys for about 3. 10 seconds.

4. Release all keys and wait a few seconds.

5. Press the power button again to turn the Mac on.

Important: During this process, the Mac should not exhibit any activity (such as rebooting) until the reset is complete and you manually press the power button to restart the system.

The Problem:

When I attempt the SMC reset, the behavior is not as expected:

1. Premature Reboot: The Mac reboots after holding just the three keys (Shift + Control + Option) for a few seconds, even without pressing the power button.

2. Unusual Boot Behavior: If I press the power button during or before the reboot triggered by the three keys, the Mac boots up briefly and then reboots again.

This behavior does not align with the standard SMC reset procedure, where no activity should occur until the reset is complete.

Does anyone know why this is happening or have suggestions for resolving this issue? Your help is greatly appreciated!

Additional Information:

When I connect a generic USB Windows keyboard, the behavior changes:

1. Nothing happens (as expected) when pressing the 3-keys on the external keyboard;

2. When I add the power button on the Mac, it boots and then exits (or goes black).

3 It stays that way until I release and then I press the power button again.

So apart from the short boot in (2), it visually looks like it works - but cannot be sure.

***if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect the charging cable before booting to Safe Mode.  This will make it act as a wired keyboard and will result in a successful Safe Boot mode.

verify your software is up to date…

The current stable release of Sequoia including bug fixes, security updates is macOS 15.2

Keep your Mac up to date - Apple Support

Keep your Mac up to date - Apple Support