Your trackpad stopped responding. This is frustrating, but it’s usually fixable in minutes. Most trackpad issues fall into three categories: software problems, driver issues, or hardware conflicts. This guide walks you through each one with clear steps.
What’s Happening With Your Trackpad
A trackpad stops working when three things disconnect: the hardware isn’t responding, the software can’t talk to it, or Windows or macOS stops recognizing it. Before you panic about buying a new one, check these solutions first.
The good news is that about 80% of trackpad problems have simple fixes. You likely don’t need professional help.
Quick Fixes to Try First
These take less than five minutes and solve most problems.
Restart Your Computer
This clears temporary glitches that disable your trackpad. Restart your laptop completely, then test it again.
Check if Your Trackpad is Turned On
Many laptops have a physical or keyboard shortcut to disable the trackpad.
For Windows laptops, check these common shortcuts:
- Fn + F6
- Fn + F7
- Fn + F9
For Mac, go to System Preferences > Trackpad and make sure it’s enabled.
Look for a button on your keyboard with a trackpad symbol. Press it with Fn held down.
Plug In Your Mouse
If you have an external mouse, connect it now. If the mouse works but the trackpad doesn’t, your trackpad is the problem. If both don’t work, it might be a software issue affecting both devices.
Clean Your Trackpad
Dust, moisture, or fingerprints cause sensitivity problems. Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the surface. Don’t use liquids directly on the trackpad.
Wait a few seconds, then test again.
Windows Trackpad Troubleshooting
Update or Reinstall Trackpad Drivers
Drivers are software that tells Windows how to use your trackpad. Outdated or corrupted drivers are the most common cause of trackpad failure.
Step 1: Right-click the Start menu and select Device Manager.
Step 2: Find Mice and Other Pointing Devices in the list.
Step 3: Look for your trackpad device. Common names include Touchpad, Trackpad, Precision Touchpad, or a manufacturer name like Synaptics or Elan.
Step 4: Right-click it and select Update Driver.
Step 5: Choose Search Automatically for Updated Driver Software.
Step 6: If Windows finds an update, install it and restart your computer.
If updating doesn’t work, try uninstalling the driver:
Step 1: Right-click the trackpad device in Device Manager.
Step 2: Select Uninstall Device.
Step 3: Check the box that says Delete the Driver Software for this Device.
Step 4: Click Uninstall.
Step 5: Restart your computer.
Windows will automatically reinstall a basic driver when it restarts. If you need the full driver with all features, visit your laptop manufacturer’s website and download the latest trackpad driver.
Check Device Manager for Errors
In Device Manager, look for a yellow triangle or exclamation mark next to your trackpad name. This indicates a problem with the device.
If you see a yellow triangle:
Right-click the device and select Properties. Read the error code. Common codes include Error 43 (hardware failure), Error 28 (driver removed), or Error 37 (conflicting settings).
For Error 43, your hardware may be failing. Try the driver reinstall steps above first. If that doesn’t work, your trackpad may need replacement.
For Error 28, reinstall the driver using the steps above.
Disable and Re-enable the Trackpad
Sometimes Windows stops recognizing the device even though it’s working.
In Device Manager, right-click your trackpad and select Disable Device. Wait 10 seconds. Then right-click it again and select Enable Device. Test your trackpad.
Check BIOS Settings
BIOS is the software that runs before Windows starts. Some laptops let you disable the trackpad here.
On startup, press Delete, F2, or F12 (varies by manufacturer) repeatedly before Windows loads. Look for an option called Onboard Devices, Integrated Peripherals, or similar. Find your trackpad setting and make sure it’s set to Enabled. Save and exit.
Turn Off Selective USB Suspension
Windows can turn off USB devices to save power, which sometimes affects trackpads.
Step 1: Type Device Manager in the Windows search bar.
Step 2: Expand Universal Serial Bus Controllers.
Step 3: Right-click any USB Hub and select Properties.
Step 4: Go to the Power Management tab.
Step 5: Uncheck Allow the Computer to Turn Off This Device to Save Power.
Step 6: Click OK and repeat for each USB Hub.
Step 7: Restart your computer.
Run Hardware Troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter.
Step 1: Type Troubleshoot Settings in the search bar.
Step 2: Select Troubleshoot Other Problems.
Step 3: Look for Hardware and Devices and click it.
Step 4: Click Run the Troubleshooter and follow the prompts.
Mac Trackpad Troubleshooting
Check System Preferences
Step 1: Click the Apple menu and select System Settings (or System Preferences on older Macs).
Step 2: Go to Trackpad.
Step 3: Make sure tracking speed is not set to zero.
Step 4: Test Clicking, Tracking, or other tabs to see if any gestures work. If some gestures work but others don’t, your trackpad is partly functional.
Step 5: Return to the main Trackpad settings and click Reset to Defaults.
Restart Your Mac in Safe Mode
Safe Mode loads only essential software, which can help identify if an app is causing the problem.
Step 1: Shut down your Mac completely.
Step 2: Turn it back on and immediately hold Shift.
Step 3: Keep holding Shift until you see Login Window.
Step 4: Log in and test your trackpad.
If your trackpad works in Safe Mode, an app or setting is causing the problem. Restart normally and think about what changed recently.
Reset the SMC (Intel Macs)
The SMC controls hardware functions like your trackpad.
For MacBook Pro or Air from 2018 or earlier:
Step 1: Shut down your Mac.
Step 2: Hold Shift + Control + Option (all on the left side) and the Power button.
Step 3: Hold for 10 seconds, then release all keys.
Step 4: Wait a few seconds and turn on your Mac normally.
For newer Macs with Apple Silicon, this process changed. Visit Apple’s support page for your specific model.
Update macOS
Apple often releases updates that fix trackpad drivers and software.
Step 1: Click the Apple menu and select System Settings.
Step 2: Choose General, then Software Update.
Step 3: If an update is available, click Update Now.
Step 4: Follow the prompts and restart when finished.
Check for Trackpad Accessibility Features
Sometimes accessibility features interfere with normal trackpad function.
Step 1: Go to System Settings > Accessibility.
Step 2: Check if Trackpad Options are enabled under Pointer Control.
Step 3: If something looks unusual, reset to default settings.
Physical and Hardware Issues
If software fixes don’t work, your problem might be hardware related.
Check for Liquid Damage
If you spilled liquid on your laptop, water may have damaged the trackpad circuit. Look for discoloration, corrosion, or visible damage around the trackpad area. If you see any, don’t use your laptop. Take it to a repair shop immediately.
Look for Physical Damage
Examine your trackpad closely. Cracks, dents, or swelling indicate hardware failure. Physical damage usually requires replacement.
Test an External Mouse
Connect an external USB or Bluetooth mouse. If it works perfectly but your trackpad doesn’t, your trackpad hardware has failed. If the external mouse also has issues, your problem is likely software or a USB port issue.
Check Cable Connections
On some laptops, the trackpad connects with an internal cable. If your laptop has been dropped or taken apart recently, this cable might be loose. This requires opening your laptop, which you should only do if you’re comfortable with it or can take it to a technician.
Common Trackpad Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Trackpad is completely unresponsive | Driver issue, hardware failure, or disabled in BIOS | Update driver, restart computer, check BIOS |
| Trackpad works sometimes but freezes often | Conflicting software, thermal throttling, or driver conflict | Reinstall driver, disable conflicting apps, check temperature |
| Only some trackpad features work (like tap-to-click but not scrolling) | Settings disabled or partial driver failure | Check trackpad settings, reinstall driver |
| Trackpad responds slowly or erratically | Dirt buildup, moisture, or driver problem | Clean trackpad, update driver |
| Trackpad works but cursor jumps randomly | Palm rejection disabled or driver bug | Enable palm rejection, update driver |
| Trackpad works with external mouse but mouse sometimes fails too | USB power management issue or USB port failure | Disable USB selective suspend, test different USB port |
When to Replace Your Trackpad
You need to replace your trackpad if:
Your trackpad shows visible physical damage like cracks or swelling.
All software fixes and driver updates don’t help, and Device Manager shows Error 43 (hardware failure).
Your trackpad has been exposed to liquid and won’t respond at all.
You’ve tested an external mouse and it works fine, confirming the trackpad is the problem.
You’ve followed every step above and nothing works.
Replacement costs typically range from 50 to 200 dollars depending on your laptop model. It’s worth trying these fixes first before spending money.
Preventing Future Trackpad Problems
Clean your trackpad weekly with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent dust buildup.
Avoid eating or drinking near your laptop to reduce liquid damage risk.
Keep your operating system and drivers updated. Set Windows Update and macOS updates to automatic.
Don’t disable your trackpad in BIOS unless you specifically need to. Re-enable it if you stop using an external mouse.
Close apps you’re not using. Too many running apps can cause driver conflicts.
Avoid slamming your laptop or dropping it. Trackpad cables can loosen from impact.
Summary
Most trackpad problems are software-related and fixable at home. Start with the quick fixes: restart your computer, make sure your trackpad is turned on, and check for physical debris. Then move to driver updates, which solve most remaining issues. If you’ve tried everything and your trackpad still doesn’t work, it’s likely a hardware problem that needs professional replacement.
Don’t assume your trackpad is broken immediately. Test with an external mouse to confirm the problem is actually your trackpad. Follow the steps in this guide in order. Most people solve their problem by the driver update step.
For more detailed troubleshooting specific to your laptop model, visit your manufacturer’s support website. For Windows driver information, explore Microsoft’s official driver support page. For Mac-specific issues, check Apple’s trackpad support documentation.
Your trackpad can work again. You’ve got this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my laptop without a trackpad?
Yes. An external mouse or trackpad works as a complete replacement. You can find affordable USB or Bluetooth mice online. Many people prefer external mice anyway.
How long does a trackpad typically last?
Most trackpads last 5 to 7 years with normal use. Heavy users may experience problems sooner. Proper maintenance extends lifespan.
Is it safe to open my laptop to check the trackpad cable?
Only if you’re experienced with electronics. Opening your laptop can void your warranty and cause new problems if you’re not careful. Take it to a professional if you’re unsure.
Will a trackpad stop working if my computer overheats?
Yes. Extreme heat can disable hardware temporarily as a safety measure. If your trackpad stops working when your laptop is hot, let it cool down. Then check for dust blocking air vents and consider using a laptop cooling pad.
Can malware cause trackpad problems?
Rarely. Malware usually doesn’t directly disable hardware. If you suspect malware, run a full system scan with Windows Defender or your antivirus software. But malware is an unlikely cause of trackpad failure.
