In this guide, I will walk you through the steps to troubleshoot and fix a non-responsive laptop keyboard after replacement. It can be very annoying when you have just bought a new keyboard and spent ages to replace it and it does not work.
Replacing a laptop keyboard can be a tricky task, and sometimes, even after a successful replacement, you might encounter issues like the keyboard not responding. Luckily there are a few things you can do to fix the issue.
Disclaimer: Laptop disassembly and keyboard replacement can void warranties and potentially damage your laptop if not done correctly. If your laptop is under warranty, consider contacting the manufacturer or a professional technician for assistance.
Table Of Contents
Before You Begin:
Ensure that the replacement keyboard is compatible with your laptop model.
Double-check that the keyboard ribbon cable is securely connected to the motherboard.
How to Fix Laptop Keyboard Not Responding After Replacement
Use the below methods to troubleshoot why your laptop keyboard is no longer working.
Step 1: Reboot Your Laptop
If you haven’t already, restart your laptop.
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve software-related issues causing keyboard problems.
Step 2: Check Keyboard Drivers
Go to your laptop’s manufacturer’s website and download the latest keyboard drivers for your specific model.
Install the drivers and restart your laptop.
Check if the keyboard is now working.
Step 3: Inspect Keyboard Cable Connection
Power off your laptop and unplug it from any power source.
Carefully open the laptop to access the keyboard.
Ensure that the keyboard ribbon cable is correctly seated in the motherboard’s connector.
Gently reconnect the cable if it appears loose or improperly connected.
Step 4: Test for Hardware Issues
If the keyboard cable connection is secure, and the issue persists, test the keyboard on another laptop (if possible) to rule out a defective keyboard.
If the keyboard works on another laptop, it’s likely not the issue.
If the keyboard doesn’t work on another laptop, consider getting a replacement keyboard.
Step 5: Examine for Physical Damage
Check the keyboard for any physical damage, such as bent or damaged pins on the ribbon cable or any visible damage to the keyboard itself.
Replace the keyboard if any damage is found.
Step 6: BIOS/UEFI Settings
Access your laptop’s BIOS/UEFI settings during startup (usually by pressing a specific key, like F2 or Delete).
Check if any keyboard-related settings might be causing the issue.
Restore default settings if necessary, save changes, and reboot.
Step 7: System Restore (Windows) or Time Machine (Mac)
If the keyboard issue occurred after a system update or software change, consider performing a system restore (Windows) or using Time Machine (Mac) to revert to a previous state when the keyboard was functioning correctly.
Final Thoughts
I hope one of the above methods has helped you fix your laptop keyboard. Just remember that laptop keyboard replacement and troubleshooting can be complex, and if you are not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to seek professional help to avoid causing further damage to your laptop.
