Having a laptop keyboard that doesn’t work can be extremely frustrating. As the main input device, an unresponsive keyboard makes it difficult or impossible to use your laptop effectively. But before resorting to expensive repairs or replacing the laptop entirely, there are several troubleshooting steps you can try to get your keyboard working again. Here is an in-depth guide to diagnosing and fixing laptop keyboard issues.
Troubleshooting Your Laptop Keyboard
Check for Physical Damage
The first thing I do when my laptop keyboard is not working properly is inspect it closely for any physical damage. Look for stuck or missing keys, cracks, dents, or other signs of exterior damage. If you spilled liquid on the keyboard, it’s possible some of the internal components have been damaged. Physical damage usually requires repair or replacement of the keyboard.
Update Drivers and Firmware
Outdated drivers and firmware can cause keyboards to malfunction. I update the keyboard drivers, chipset drivers, and BIOS/UEFI firmware to the latest versions from the device manufacturer’s website. Keeping these up to date eliminates software-related issues.
Toggle Num Lock/Caps Lock
A simple Num Lock or Caps Lock toggle can make it seem like the keyboard isn’t working properly. Try turning these special functions on or off to see if it fixes certain keys not working. The Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock status lights indicate if they are activated.
Restart and Disconnect Peripherals
Restarting the laptop essentially resets all the software and hardware, which can fix keyboard issues caused by temporary glitches. While restarting, I also disconnect any peripherals like wireless keyboards, USB hubs, or docking stations. Interference from other devices can sometimes cause laptop keyboard problems.
Test Keyboard in BIOS
Booting into the BIOS/UEFI firmware settings interface isolates the keyboard from the operating system and software. If the keyboard works normally in the BIOS, that points to a software-related issue in the OS. If it still doesn’t work, there is likely a hardware problem with the keyboard itself.
Perform a Clean Boot
Sometimes software running in the background interferes with the proper functioning of the keyboard. Performing a clean boot in Windows starts the computer with only essential system services and software enabled. If the keyboard works with a clean boot, one of the disabled startup programs is likely causing conflicts.
Enable/Disable Filter Keys
Windows includes a special feature called Filter Keys that can accidentally get turned on, making it seem like the keyboard is malfunctioning. Toggle Filter Keys to off to see if that resolves erratic keyboard behavior.
Run Hardware Diagnostics
Your laptop manufacturer likely provides a hardware diagnostic tool that can test for keyboard issues. For example, Dell computers have an ePSA diagnostic test built into the BIOS. Running diagnostics identifies whether the issue stems from a hardware failure.
Check for Loose Connections
If the keyboard works intermittently or certain keys don’t work, there may be a loose cable connection between the keyboard and motherboard. Pushing down on the top center of the keyboard or lightly tapping the back of the laptop can temporarily reconnect a loose cable.
Fixing a Physically Damaged Keyboard
If physical damage is causing the keyboard malfunction, replacement or repair of the keyboard will be necessary.
Replace Keyboard
For extensive damage like liquid spills that corrode the circuitry, replacing the entire keyboard assembly is required. Replacement keyboards purchased from the manufacturer or reputable third parties typically include the keycaps, base, and internal hardware. I follow a disassembly guide to safely remove the damaged keyboard and install the replacement.
Repair Individual Keys
If just one or a few keys are damaged, I may be able to repair them without replacing the entire keyboard. Keycap removers safely pry off individual keycaps for cleaning or replacement. I can order a replacement plastic keycap to swap out a cracked or missing one. For stuck keys, I use compressed air to blow out any debris lodged under the key.
DIY Keyboard Repair
In some cases, minor keyboard repairs like replacing keycaps or cleaning debris do not require complete disassembly. Carefully prying up the affected keys to access the underside of the keyboard allows basic cleaning or repair that can fix certain issues and avoid a full replacement.
Professional Repair Service
Major physical damage like liquid spills under the actual keyboard may require professional repair from a laptop service technician. They have the expertise and tools to fully disassemble the laptop, clean or replace keyboard components, and properly reassemble the device. This ensures proper working condition and avoids accidental damage.
Fixing Software and Hardware Issues
If the keyboard troubleshooting steps point to a software problem or internal hardware fault, there are several ways I attempt to get it working properly again without replacing the keyboard.
Update or Reinstall Drivers
Once I have determined the keyboard works mechanically and the issue is software-related, updating the drivers from the device manager allows me to rule out driver conflicts. If updating does not work, uninstalling the keyboard drivers completely and rebooting reinstalls fresh, clean versions that often resolve erratic behavior.
Perform System Restore
Reverting to an earlier restore point in Windows when the keyboard was functioning normally rolls back any driver or software changes that may have caused issues. System Restore gets Windows back into the previous working state without losing any personal files.
Reset the Laptop
For persistent software-related keyboard problems, performing a factory reset allows me to start fresh. Backing up data first, the reset will reinstall Windows, drivers, and software and remove any potentially conflicting programs and settings. This should return keyboard function to normal.
Replace Motherboard
If hardware diagnostics or troubleshooting determine the keyboard circuitry on the laptop’s motherboard is malfunctioning, motherboard replacement may be required. While expensive, a new motherboard will completely resolve any internal hardware issues causing keyboard failure.
External Keyboard
A wireless Bluetooth or USB external keyboard can serve as a workaround for a laptop keyboard malfunctioning due to an irreparable hardware problem. Attaching an external keyboard allows continued use of the laptop in a stationary position.
Preventing Future Keyboard Issues
Once the current keyboard problems are resolved, there are steps I take to help prevent recurring issues in the future:
- Always keep liquids away from the laptop to prevent spills and corrosion under the keys.
- Avoid excessive pressure, crumbs, or debris buildup that can damage the keyboard over time.
- Update the operating system, drivers, and firmware frequently to maintain compatibility.
- Only install trusted software from reliable sources to prevent malware conflicts.
- Use canned air to routinely blow out dust and debris from under the keys.
- Handle the laptop gently and transport it in a padded case to reduce physical damage.
Following laptop keyboard best practices helps maximize the keyboard’s lifespan and minimizes downtime from malfunctions. Acting quickly on the first signs of keyboard issues and methodically troubleshooting can get the keyboard operational again in most cases without expensive repairs or replacement.
