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Mid 2009 Model A1278 / 2.26 or 2.53 GHz Core 2 Duo processor EMC 2326

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Trackpad replacement not working (but keyboard is?)

Hello,

I have an older MacBook Pro (mid 2009) and am running its final update, 10.11.6.

I recently replaced my trackpad. The old trackpad was recognized by the computer but would not acknowledge a hard click.  Furthermore, the plastic connecter on the trackpad itself became brittle and eventually crumbled, so the keyboard stopped working as a result.

The installation of the new trackpad went fine and the keyboard came back to life.  However, The trackpad is completely unrecognized.  Here are the steps I have taken so far:

  • Reset both the PRAM and SMC.
  • Ran Disk Utility > First Aid.
  • Checked the trackpad adjustment screw.
  • Checked settings in:
    1. System Preferences > Mouse.
    2. System Preferences > Trackpad.
    3. Accessibility > Mouse & Trackpad.

I’ve placed this question in the Apple Support Communities after both combing through their forums and contacting Apple Support directly. Being that my device is now considered obsolete that have directed me to the Genius Bar later this week. I’ve set the appointment but wanted to check here as well. In case I missed a similar post on your discussion boards, please let me know.

Thank you for your help!

Alyssa

PS - Here is the replacement part I purchased.

Answer this question I have this problem too

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

It you can’t get a click action that’s an easy fix by a mechanical adjustment. Turn the screw a 1/2 turn see if that helps one way then the other. Just don’t go to far as its a bear to get the pin screw back in.

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If your fingers tracking is not working then you need to check the connection to the logic board.

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Hi Dan, thanks - I'm saying that the computer is not even recognizing the trackpad at all; connection to Logic Board is secured. So I can't even get to the step of this mechanical adjustment just yet.

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@alyssamccraw - Sounds like you have a bad part here.

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All Apple is going to do tell you is you need a new machine.

Google “mac repair & your city”. Find the highest rated independent Mac guy and go see him.

My bet would be that you got a defective part. You can buy the trackpad cable and put it on your old trackpad for cheap.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Apple-MacBook-P...

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Hi Mayer, thank you - I had a similar thought regarding Apple but didn't the original post to be too long. But, in the original post I did say that the connecter of the original track pad was brittle and broke off. In other words I cannot connect a new cable to the old trackpad. The new kit came with a new cable. I suppose a good test might be trying the old cable on the new track pad to see if the part was defective? It's just interesting to me that the keyboard functions fine.

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Alyssa McCraw will be eternally grateful.
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