The Magnetic Clasp on My MacBook Pro Is Stuck

The Magnetic Clasp on My MacBook Pro Is Stuck thumbnail
Keep food and drinks away from your laptop.

The MacBook Pro uses three magnetic clasps. One is in the charger cable to hold it in place. The other two are on the top corners of the screen casing, and they hold the MacBook closed. If any of these magnets are stuck, it is not because the magnets have suddenly become stronger. In most cases it means that another substance, such as food or even glue, has been spilled on the computer or charger and is causing it to stick. You should never use anything beyond gentle pressure on your laptop, so any serious sticking will need to be handled by a professional.

  1. Stuck Charger

    • The new style of MacBook Pro chargers are designed to pull out easily in case someone accidentally pulls the cord. However, the old charger cords were easier to pull out from some directions. If you pull straight on the new style of cable -- perpendicular to the laptop screen -- it will remain firmly in place. Try gripping the connected portion of the charger and pulling directly away from the computer. If this doesn't work, there is probably something stuck inside the charger slot and you should call Apple support to set up an appointment at a local Apple location.

    Stuck Closure Magnets

    • The closure magnets that hold the MacBook Pro closed are not particularly strong. For example, they would not be capable of damaging a credit card. It would be very strange for the magnets themselves to be causing the case to stick closed. There may be something sticky holding the laptop closed, or there may be a problem with the hinge. The all-aluminum MacBook Pros can develop hinge problems after heavy use. Do not force the hinge if it is sticking -- if it is defective Apple should cover the replacement.

    Food and Your Macbook

    • Everyone knows that they should keep food and drink away from their laptop. However, many of us have nevertheless spilled food on our keyboards. Even if you clean it thoroughly, anything short of dismantling the MacBook Pro can leave some residue. To avoid continuing sticking problems, keep your laptop on a different surface than your meals.

    Older Macbook Pros

    • Older MacBook Pro computers may not be covered by warranty or AppleCare. Unfortunately, this may mean that any problem with the aluminum hinge is up to you to pay for. Especially when this is your primary or work computer, it may be cheaper overall to trade in your current MacBook Pro for a new one. An Apple specialist will be able to help you with the details if the repairs prove to be too expensive.

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