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Stuck key on 12 inch Macbook keyboard

I wonder if anyone can help me. The "i" key on the keyboard of my 12 inch Macbook is sticking. It does not have the same "click" or tactile feedback that the other keys have. I try to keep the keyboard clean and free of crumbs, dust, etc, however something just doesn't seem right. Is there a safe way to remedy the problem myself?


Thanks!

Chris

MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2015), OS X Yosemite (10.10.5)

Posted on Sep 19, 2015 5:20 PM

Reply
134 replies

Oct 11, 2015 6:08 AM in response to ChrisM10

I had the same problem. My space bar, left command key, and most noticeably, my 'p' key stopped working- the key press would register, but there was absolutely no tactile feedback. I took my MacBook to my local Apple Store (Dayton, OH), and they said because the MacBook was so new, they didn't have the ability to fix it in house like they normally would. They sent it to Austin, TX and three days later, all is well.


They replaced the entire top section of the MacBook. I know my keyboard had been degrading in terms of tactile feedback, but the repaired version feels much more tactile and 'clicky' than I remember. I suppose that since this is a first generation laptop there are bound to be issues.

Oct 11, 2015 7:53 AM in response to amys888

Amy,


I had the same experience as John K below. I followed the advice of OGELTHORPE and brought the Macbook into the store. They could not do anything in the store because the Macbook was so new so it was sent out. I was at the Apple store on a Tues evening so the computer was not sent out until the next day (Wed.). They told me it might take up to 5 business days to get back to me unless I picked it up at the Apple Store, which was not convenient for me during the work week. The computer was back in my hands by Saturday morning via FedEx Saturday. I know they replaced the whole thing because the fingerprints were all gone and it looked brand-spankin new. I was a little apprehensive when the Genius said they needed to send it out for surgery because I use it for so much at work...ok, a lot apprehensive...and those 4 days were tough to go back to my huge Gateway dinosaur, but in the end it was worth it. Apple made good on their warranty. I hope this doesn't keep happening but it's a good sell for the AppleCare plan...

Oct 13, 2015 4:00 PM in response to ChrisM10

I sent mine back a couple days ago. I was worried that they would send it back saying that they couldn't repeat the problem. It was intermittent. A few keys would stick frequently. It was annoying to type with. I am back on my macbook air. The keyboard is more tactile and feels as it it will never fail. I expect the unit back any day now.


When I take it in I feel compelled to go overboard on the description of the problem. The repair center got the message (per label in the shipping box they sent me) "keys stick". So all that stuff I said in my chat session got reduced to that. I am hoping the factory guys don't have any social skills but kick butt on fixing computers. I am going to trust them to make the right call. Judging from several other messages above they've been getting a little practice on this repair.

Oct 14, 2015 9:39 AM in response to z3braman

After buying the Macbook 2 weeks ago I had to bring it for repair due to a problem with a stuck key.. after only 2 weeks of use; this is definitely a manufacturing problem; I like the new Macbook, but that keyboard I know is going to be a source of headaches. I have a feeling every few months I'll be doing the same, I know other keys will malfunction.

Oct 14, 2015 11:42 AM in response to FUGW

Ok, one week after getting my computer back for repairs to the keyboard, the spacebar is stuck again.


There is definitely a problem, at least with my unit. However, this time, it's worse. Not only does the spacebar not have any tactility, it only registers presses about 75% of the time. I really have to whack it to make it work.


I hope Apple figures this out, or at least develops the ability to repair it in store at ALL of their locations. I've never had this problem with a MacBook keyboard before...

Oct 14, 2015 11:59 AM in response to John K.

Does anyone know when they, -and by they I mean Apple- consider swapping your computer with a new one? I even bought applecare; if the pattern of key malfunction continues as it happen to John K., I cannot imagine taking my laptop every 2-3 weeks for keyboard repairs... with 3-5 business days turnover this is going to make use of the computer impossible.

Oct 17, 2015 9:20 AM in response to FUGW

I got mine back today too. The keys seem responsive and they gave me my old screen back with a new base (I recognize a tiny ding in the screen and they said they replaced the MB and the top is missing a tiny dent).

I hope this doesn't recur but that doesn't seem to be the case as reported by others on this string.

Happy with the service but concerned as an investor.

Oct 19, 2015 11:22 AM in response to Aaron Azevedo

UPDATE -


Just got my MacBook replaced again! This will be my third new machine since buying one of the first ones out of the gate at launch. I really like the machine, but the keyboard does seem to be a weak spot. I'm a fluid and gentle typist, but admittedly I'm on this machine 6 - 8 hours a day. That said, I'm sure the keyboard has gone through some rigorous cycle testing. There must be some QC issues cropping up either as a design/engineering flaw or at the factory level. Hope Apple fixes this before my current keyboard craps out.


I did look at the Air this time around thinking that I might swap, but looking at the machine it is like a time warp - clunky, heavy, thick and slow looking. I just could't go back in time.

Stuck key on 12 inch Macbook keyboard

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