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2.0GHz, 2.3GHz, or 2.6GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processor (Turbo Boost up to 3.8GHz) with 6MB shared L3 cache.

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Bought a used MacBook Pro, keyboard backlight not working

So I got a good deal on a max spec late 2013 MBP, the only problem is that the keyboard backlight doesn't turn on, the rest of the machine works fine. Is this something I'll have to replace? If so what part do I need?

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Chosen Solution

Here is a link to Amazon with the keyboard/backlight.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HRO...

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Most Helpful Answer

Remove the bottom cover, disconnect the battery, disconnect and check the backlight connector (to the right of the left fan, at the top of the board). Since this is at the edge of the board, it is very easy for it to get liquid damaged and damage the connector on the board. If there is any corrosion, clean it with isopropyl. If not, it could be an issue with the part (very unlikely for it to not work at all, unless opened and damaged before) or it could be an issue with the backlight IC for the keyboard backlight. If the connector is burnt, you will have to solder a new one.

Before all this, try an SMC and PRAM reset. Also, put your hand over the camera and try increasing the backlight using the keyboard.

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7 Comments:

The connector looks fine but it still doesn't work, I tried resetting the SMC and PRAM, that didn't work either.

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Does the keyboard backlight connector look ok? If not, try a test backlight. When you increase the keyboard backlight using the keyboard, does it let you increase it or show a prohibited symbol? If latter, cover the front camera and try this (too much light), if it increases, will be the backlight or an issue with the keyboard backlight voltage on the board (at which point, I would recommend taking it to someone who can diagnose this)

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It shows that it's increasing and covering the camera does nothing. The connector looked fine.

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Will be an issue with the board if this is the case and you have tried a test backlight. Will either be the connector or the backlight boost for the keyboard

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Can I order a new backlight?

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