Mac trackpad double-clicking and letter keys not working

Mac trackpad double-clicking + letter keys not working.


Hey, I just turned on my Mac after about a week and noticed two weird things:


Trackpad sometimes double-clicks when I single-click


Letter keys on the keyboard aren’t working (other keys are fine)



Anyone know what might be going on?

MacBook Pro (M3, 2023)

Posted on Jun 26, 2025 1:11 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 27, 2025 11:21 AM

In addition to kaz-k's excellent advice, check your battery for swelling. Symptoms:


— Unexpected trackpad and/or keyboard behavior.

— The gap between the display and the deck is not even when the display is closed.

— The gap between the bottom plate and chassis is uneven in places.

— Some of the screws that hold the bottom plate have popped out.

— The trackpad surface is higher than the surrounding deck surface.

— The computer "rocks" a bit on a known flat surface.†


† — I find solid-surface and granite countertops very effective flat test surfaces.

4 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 27, 2025 11:21 AM in response to Zohaib304

In addition to kaz-k's excellent advice, check your battery for swelling. Symptoms:


— Unexpected trackpad and/or keyboard behavior.

— The gap between the display and the deck is not even when the display is closed.

— The gap between the bottom plate and chassis is uneven in places.

— Some of the screws that hold the bottom plate have popped out.

— The trackpad surface is higher than the surrounding deck surface.

— The computer "rocks" a bit on a known flat surface.†


† — I find solid-surface and granite countertops very effective flat test surfaces.

Jun 26, 2025 6:33 AM in response to Zohaib304

If a Mac's trackpad is double-clicking unexpectedly and some letter keys aren't working, there are a few potential solutions. First, check for and adjust settings related to trackpad clicking and tracking speed. If issues persist, it could be a hardware problem, requiring service from Apple. 


Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. 1. Check Trackpad Settings:
    • Go to System Settings (or System Preferences) > Trackpad. 
    • Adjust double-click speed and tracking speed. 
    • Ensure "Force Click and haptic feedback" is turned off if you're experiencing issues with double-clicking. 
    • Verify that "Use trackpad for dragging" is enabled if you're having trouble with dragging. 
  1. 2. Keyboard Issues:
    • Restart: A simple restart can resolve temporary software glitches. 
    • Update macOS: Ensure your operating system is up to date, as updates often include bug fixes. 
    • Safe Mode: Start your Mac in safe mode to isolate the issue. If the problem disappears in safe mode, it may be due to a third-party application or extension. 
    • Reinstall macOS: If all else fails, reinstalling macOS may be necessary. 
  1. 3. Hardware Checks:
    • Clean the Trackpad: Dust or debris can interfere with the trackpad.Carefully clean the trackpad surface. 
    • Check for Obstructions: Ensure nothing is stuck underneath the trackpad.  
    • Apple Diagnostics: Run Apple Diagnostics to check for hardware problems. 
  1. 4. Advanced Troubleshooting:
    • Reset Trackpad: Resetting the trackpad settings to their defaults can be helpful. 
    • Check Mouse Settings: If you use a mouse, ensure its settings are not conflicting with the trackpad. 
    • Consider Service: If the problem persists after trying these steps, it may be a hardware issue, and you should contact Apple Support or an authorized service provider. 

Important Notes:

  • If you're comfortable with more technical solutions, you can try resetting the trackpad properties files or uninstalling/updating third-party drivers. 
  • If the issue is with a specific key not working, check if it's sticky or if there's any debris preventing it from pressing properly. 
  • For older trackpads that don't have a USB connection, you may need to reset the Bluetooth connection. 


Jun 27, 2025 9:19 AM in response to Zohaib304

Reset Trackpad Settings:


  • Reset the trackpad’s configuration by deleting its preference file:
  • Open Finder > Go > Go to Folder and type ~/Library/Preferences/.
  • Locate files like com.apple.AppleMultitouchTrackpad.plist or com.apple.driver.AppleBluetoothMultitouch.trackpad.plist.
  • Move these files to a backup folder (don’t delete them yet).
  • Restart your Mac to regenerate default settings and test the trackpad.


This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Mac trackpad double-clicking and letter keys not working

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.