MacBook® computers are some of the most reliable and long-lasting laptops on the market, but any piece of electronics is prone to occasional problems. Fortunately, many of the most common hiccups are relatively easy to clear up, while a few may require attention from an experienced laptop repair expert. Here's a closer look at the issues you're most likely to run into.

What Problems Commonly Impact MacBook Laptops?

1. Unexplained Shutdowns

One likely cause of random shutdowns is a battery that doesn’t fully charge. If you don’t see a lightning bolt in the menu bar when the computer is plugged in, your battery probably isn’t charging. In some cases, just getting a new charger can replace the problem, but if the laptop is older, replacing the battery may be in order.

Restarting the computer right after it shuts down can initiate automatic cleanup scripts that may resolve software glitches. If your computer is still shutting down, a laptop repair tech can reset low-level functions that may have gotten corrupted.

2. Blank Screen

A blank black or blue screen on startup usually means an app or login function isn’t loading correctly. Hold down the power button for six seconds to restart the computer, then use a program like CleanMyMac® to find and remove troublesome programs.

If you see a gray screen with an Apple® logo, core programs may not be running correctly. Try restarting in safe mode and checking to see whether any new updates are available. If not, you may need to take your computer in for laptop repairs.

3. Inoperable External Devices

If a microphone, hard drive, or other external device isn’t working, try plugging it into another computer first. If it works, try plugging a different accessory into your MacBook to see whether the port is working. If not, you might need a laptop repair expert to fix some hardware issues.

4. Slow Performance

Programs don’t always give up the RAM they’re using, so your system may run out of resources if you haven’t restarted in a while. Restarting the machine will clear the RAM and speed your computer up.

Your computer may also be loading too many programs on startup. Open System Preferences and go to “User and Groups” to find out how many programs open automatically. Turning off unnecessary apps will usually restore some of your computer’s processing power.

Installing any pending updates can also clear up software conflicts that might be slowing down your computer. If your MacBook is still running slowly after these steps, you might need an expert to identify the issue.

If your MacBook isn't running as it should, take it to the Apple experts at Experimax Middleton. They provide exceptional service and fast turnaround times to customers throughout Peabody, Danvers, and Lynnfield, MA. Visit their website to learn more about their laptop repair services, get updates and tips on Facebook, or call (978) 304-0134 to make an appointment. The store also welcomes walk-ins at their location across from Richardson’s Ice Cream, at 149 South Main Street, Suite M, Middleton, MA, 01949.