How to Fix USB C Port MacBook Issue? Try These 7 Troubleshooting Measures to Fix the Problem Without Any Professional Help

The MacBook Pro’s USB-C ports serve an array of functions, including connecting with external devices like printers, charging the MacBook, and transferring data. If these ports stop working, it might be highly frustrating and affect all your workflows. This is a common error that might arise due to hardware or software issues. 

To eliminate the hurdle, we’ve come up with the 7 most effective solutions to fix USB-C port MacBook errors without seeking professional help. Also, we’ve listed out some tips for you to avoid any future occurrence of USB-C port trouble.

Common Effects of Non-working of Hub USB Type C on MacBook

There are some common problems that you may encounter due to the erratic behavior of the USB-C port on your MacBook that may affect the charging as well as data flow. These problems are discussed below:

Charging Issues

It is a common issue with the MacBook where the USB-C port is not working well. It can be possible either the device is not recognizing the charger plugged into the port, or it is not supplying the power effectively, leading to random interruptions or slower charging.

Data Transfer Errors

A malfunctioning USB-C port may also create hurdles in the data transfer process. In this case, it is found that when files or data are exchanged via the USB cord, the process might not start, run extremely slowly, or stop abruptly before the transfer is successful.

External Failures with USB-C Device

The MacBook might also fail to recognize the external devices and communicate with them through a USB-C cord. In such a case, you may either find an error message on the display when the cord is connected or no response at all. 

Furthermore, sometimes you may also notice fluctuations in the connection. Even in some rare cases, a faulty power outlet may also cause the MacBook not to turn on. 

Also Read: How to Add Printer to iPhone? | Explore Different Ways to Connect Printers With and Without AirPrint

7 Ways to Troubleshoot the MacBook USB-C Port Not Working Issue

Now, we know what the possible effects of the USB-C port not working error are. It’s time to find the solution. Here, we’ve mentioned some basic to advanced troubleshooting measures that you may try.

Restarting a device can solve many temporary hardware or software glitches, as in the case of the MacBook Pro. For this: 

1. Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of the display. 

   

2. Select the Restart… option and wait for the device to reboot.

   

Once done, reconnect your USB-C port and check if the problem is fixed. 

Before trying any technical solution, it is suggested to check out for the most basic mistake, i.e., poorly connected USB-C cable. So, make sure it is properly inserted in the MacBook Pro and peripheral devices. Apart from this, try out some other quick fixes, including:

• Check for any damages or cuts on the cable. 
• Connect your device with a different USB-C cable to fix the cable-related issue.
• Use a can of compressed air to clean the collection of dust and debris, if any, in the USB ports.
• Look for any discoloration or charring of the printed circuit board, which might be because of a burnt-out USB-C port. Seek professional help in this case.

Now that we’ve covered the basic solutions, it’s time to try out some technical troubleshooting measures ahead. 

Viruses and malware can also corrupt USB drivers and make the ports stop working. To determine this issue, you can run a quick virus scan on your device manually by:

• Inspecting apps folder and background processes using Activity Monitor. 
• Cross-check your browser settings. 
• Looking for any unauthorized logins.

However, this process might be time-consuming and less effective. To deal with this, you may try to use reliable third-party software.

Sometimes, outdated software may also be the powerhouse of USB-C port errors. To update Safari on Mac follow the following steps:

1. Click on the Apple menu >> About This Mac.

   

   Now, head to Software Update…

   

3. The device will check for available updates. And if there is any, you can install it. 

   

4. Finally, restart your MacBook Pro before connecting the cable.

This will eliminate the potential bugs and improve USB-C compatibility for the device. 

Tips❗You can click on the “Automatically keep my Mac up to date” option so that you won’t have to repeat the process manually every time to install the update.

Another quick fix is running Apple Diagnostics, an in-built tool that deeply scans your device for any hardware issues. Here are the required steps given to run the test:

For Macs with Apple Silicon

1. Turn on your Mac and press and hold the Power button while it is turning on. 
2. Release the button once the startup options window appears. 
3. Lastly, press Command-D to run the diagnostics on the device. 

For Intel-based Macs

1. Start up your Mac and press and hold the D key simultaneously. 
2. Release the key once the progress bar displays on the screen or the device asks you to select the language.

The moment this process is completed, you will see a list of the problem(s) encountered. From this point, you can opt for any of the following:

• Repeat the diagnostics by selecting Run the test again or leasing Command + R buttons.
• Restart your device by clicking on the Restart option or pressing R.
• Use the S key or hit the Shut-Down option to power off your Mac.

Note❗The hardware issues are presented in the form of a reference code. If you are having trouble understanding them, prefer to visit the nearby Apple Center. 

Mac’s System Management Controller (SMC) determines the power management of your device. By resetting it, you can deal with the MacBook USB C ports not working error. Here are the different ways to do so.

On MacBook

1. Power off your MacBook and press and hold Shift + Ctrl + Options. 

   

2. Now, press the power button simultaneously without leaving the other three keys.

   

3. Wait for about 10 seconds and then release all the keys 

4. Finally, boot up your Mac normally and the SMC will be reset. 

On iMac, Mac Mini, or Mac Pro

1. First, shut down your Mac and remove the power cord. 

2. Wait for about 15 seconds and then reconnect the cord to the device. 

3. Then, after 5 seconds, press the power button to turn on your Mac.

Note❗For a Mac with Apple Silicon, you can fix the SMC error simply by restarting your device.

NVRAM stands for Non-Volatile Random Access Memory that stores different kinds of data, including time zone information and volume preferences. If your NVRAM is cluttered or outdated, it may become a hurdle for your USB-C port. To rectify the error, you can reset the NVRAM as follows: 

1. Begin with shutting down your Mac.

2. Turn it on again and simultaneously press and hold the Option + Command + P + R keys for about 20 seconds. 

   

Finally, your MacBook will restart with the NVRAM reset, and most probably this will eliminate the USB-C port issue.

Also Read: Understanding Different Types of Phone Chargers and the Devices They are Used For

Tips to Prevent Mac USB C Port Not Working Error

It is always better to take preventive measures than look for a solution. To shield your MacBook Pro’s USB-C ports, here are several tips that you can consider:

Keep Your MacBook Ports Clean

Dust, lint, or other small particles often get into the USB ports and create connectivity errors. You can use a soft brush, a toothpick, or a can of compressed air and gently apply them to clean the MacBook or iPhone charging port. Don’t be so harsh during the process, and never attempt the solution while the device is turned on.

Safeguard the Device from Physical Damages

Pushing or pulling the USB-C cable forcefully into the port may damage the tiny connectors or other internal parts of the MacBook. Always gently remove and connect the cable with the device and keep them carefully while not in use. 

Update the Software and Firmware

Regularly, check for and install software updates on your MacBook to prevent any potential USB-C port error. Also, outdated drivers and firmware can be the troublemakers, which can be fixed with an update. 

Protect MacBook from Overheating 

Hardware of your device, including USB-C ports, may face damages due to the overheating issue. That’s why it is suggested to keep the device in a cool area and also take breaks during high-performing tasks to cool down the battery.

Avoid Poor-Quality Cables and Adapters 

To fix the MacBook Pro USB C port not working issue, always use quality cables and adapters and never rely on cheap, off-brand products as they lack proper standards and specifications. It is recommended to use Apple-manufactured or Apple-certified cables and adapters only.

Apart from this, maintaining good battery practices can also help keep the ports in better condition. It is suggested not to leave the charger plugged in once the MacBook is fully charged, as this may overheat the device and damage ports.

Also Read: How to Disconnect iPhone from Mac?: Try These 11 Effective Ways

Conclusion

A sudden loss of responsiveness in your MacBook Pro’s USB-C ports can, undoubtedly, affect your workflow. Thankfully, now you can fix the USB C port MacBook issue easily and uninterrupted connection, charging, and data transfer.

However, if the issue still persists, it is suggested to visit a nearby Apple service center or contact Apple Support to get professional assistance. Also, prefer to run some regular hardware and software scans to maintain the high performance of your MacBook. 

Read Next: How to Fix Touch Bar on MacBook Pro Using 10 Unique Methods

FAQs

Sources