Reset SMC MacBook Pro 2017: Step-by-Step Guide

by Jhon Lennon 47 views

Hey guys! Got a MacBook Pro 2017 that's acting up? Maybe the battery is draining too fast, or the fans are spinning like crazy for no reason? One of the first things you should try is resetting the System Management Controller, or SMC. Think of the SMC as the unsung hero that manages low-level functions on your Mac, like battery management, thermal control, keyboard backlighting, and more. Resetting it can often resolve a bunch of weird issues. This guide will walk you through exactly how to reset the SMC on your MacBook Pro 2017, step-by-step, making it super easy to follow along. Let's dive in!

Why Reset the SMC?

Before we get into how to reset the SMC, let's quickly cover why you might need to. The SMC handles a lot of critical functions, and sometimes it can get a little wonky. Resetting it is like giving your MacBook a fresh start in terms of its hardware management. Here are some common issues that an SMC reset can fix:

  • Battery Issues: Is your battery draining way too fast, not charging correctly, or not being recognized at all? An SMC reset can often recalibrate the battery management system.
  • Fan Problems: Are the fans constantly running at high speed, even when your MacBook is idle? The SMC controls the thermal management, so resetting it can help regulate fan behavior.
  • Power Issues: Is your MacBook not turning on, not sleeping, or randomly shutting down? The SMC is involved in power management, so a reset might resolve these issues.
  • Keyboard Backlight Problems: Is the keyboard backlight not working, or is it behaving erratically? The SMC controls the backlight, so a reset could fix it.
  • Display Issues: Are you experiencing weird display problems, like flickering or incorrect brightness? The SMC can sometimes affect display functions.
  • Other Hardware Anomalies: Basically, if anything hardware-related is acting strange, an SMC reset is a good troubleshooting step.

It's important to note that resetting the SMC won't erase any data on your hard drive. It's a safe procedure that only affects the low-level hardware functions. So, if you're experiencing any of the issues above, it's definitely worth a try!

Identifying Your MacBook Pro 2017 Model

Okay, before we proceed, let's make sure we're on the same page regarding your MacBook Pro 2017 model. There are a couple of variations, and the SMC reset process is slightly different depending on whether you have a MacBook Pro with or without the Touch Bar. Here's how to figure out which one you have:

  1. Look for the Touch Bar: The easiest way to tell is to simply look at your keyboard. Does it have a thin, glass strip above the number keys? That's the Touch Bar. If you see it, you have a MacBook Pro 2017 with Touch Bar.
  2. Check the Model Identifier: If you're not sure, you can also check the model identifier in the System Information. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen, and then select "About This Mac." In the window that appears, click the "System Report..." button. In the System Report window, look for the "Model Identifier" in the Hardware Overview section. Here are the model identifiers for the MacBook Pro 2017 models:
    • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports): MacBookPro14,1
    • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports): MacBookPro14,2
    • MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2017): MacBookPro14,3

Knowing your model is crucial because the SMC reset procedure is different for models with and without the Touch Bar. So, take a moment to identify your model before moving on to the next step.

Resetting the SMC on a MacBook Pro 2017 with Touch Bar

Alright, if you've determined that you have a MacBook Pro 2017 with the Touch Bar, here's how to reset the SMC. This process involves a specific key combination that you need to press while the MacBook is powered off. Follow these steps carefully:

  1. Shut Down Your MacBook: Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen, and then select "Shut Down..." Wait for your MacBook to completely power off.
  2. Press and Hold the Keys: Once your MacBook is shut down, press and hold the Control (Ctrl) key on the left side of your keyboard, the Option (Alt) key on the left side of your keyboard, and the Shift key on the left side of your keyboard. Keep holding these keys.
  3. Press the Power Button: While still holding the Control, Option, and Shift keys, press the power button. Keep holding all four keys (Control, Option, Shift, and Power) for about 10 seconds.
  4. Release the Keys: After 10 seconds, release all four keys. Your MacBook might turn on automatically, or it might remain off.
  5. Turn On Your MacBook: If your MacBook didn't turn on automatically, press the power button to turn it on.

That's it! You've successfully reset the SMC on your MacBook Pro 2017 with Touch Bar. Now, observe your MacBook to see if the issues you were experiencing have been resolved. If not, you might need to try other troubleshooting steps or contact Apple Support.

Resetting the SMC on a MacBook Pro 2017 without Touch Bar

If you have a MacBook Pro 2017 without the Touch Bar, the SMC reset process is a bit different. This procedure also involves a specific key combination, but it's slightly simpler than the one for the Touch Bar models. Here's what you need to do:

  1. Shut Down Your MacBook: Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen, and then select "Shut Down..." Wait for your MacBook to completely power off.
  2. Press and Hold the Keys: Once your MacBook is shut down, press and hold the Control (Ctrl) key on the left side of your keyboard, the Option (Alt) key on the left side of your keyboard, and the Power button simultaneously.
  3. Hold for 10 Seconds: Keep holding these three keys (Control, Option, and Power) for about 10 seconds.
  4. Release the Keys: After 10 seconds, release all three keys.
  5. Turn On Your MacBook: Press the power button to turn on your MacBook.

That's all there is to it! You've now reset the SMC on your MacBook Pro 2017 without Touch Bar. As with the Touch Bar models, monitor your MacBook to see if the issues you were facing have been resolved. If not, further troubleshooting might be necessary.

After the SMC Reset: What to Expect

After you've reset the SMC on your MacBook Pro 2017, there are a few things you might notice. These are normal and expected, so don't be alarmed:

  • Startup May Take Longer: The first time you turn on your MacBook after an SMC reset, it might take a little longer to boot up. This is because the system is re-establishing some of the low-level settings.
  • Fan Behavior May Change: You might notice that the fans behave differently, especially if you were having fan-related issues before. They might run at a lower speed, or they might not run at all when your MacBook is idle.
  • Brightness May Reset: Your display brightness might reset to the default level. You can easily adjust it to your preferred setting.
  • Other Settings May Revert: Some other low-level settings, like keyboard backlight brightness or trackpad sensitivity, might also revert to their default values. You can customize these settings in the System Preferences.

It's a good idea to give your MacBook some time to run and see if the issues you were experiencing have been resolved. If everything seems to be working normally, you're good to go! If not, don't worry; there are still other troubleshooting steps you can try.

Other Troubleshooting Steps

If resetting the SMC didn't fix the problem, don't lose hope! There are several other troubleshooting steps you can try to resolve the issues you're experiencing with your MacBook Pro 2017. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Reset NVRAM/PRAM: NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random-Access Memory) and PRAM (Parameter RAM) store certain settings that your Mac uses to start up. Resetting them can sometimes resolve issues related to display, sound, and startup disk selection. To reset NVRAM/PRAM, shut down your MacBook, then turn it on and immediately press and hold the Option (Alt), Command (⌘), P, and R keys simultaneously. Hold these keys for about 20 seconds, then release them. Your MacBook will restart.
  • Run Apple Diagnostics: Apple Diagnostics is a built-in tool that can help you identify hardware issues. To run Apple Diagnostics, disconnect all external devices except for the power adapter. Then, shut down your MacBook, turn it on, and immediately press and hold the D key. Release the key when you see the Apple Diagnostics screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to run the diagnostics.
  • Check for Software Updates: Make sure your macOS is up to date. Software updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that can resolve various issues. To check for updates, click the Apple menu, select "About This Mac," and then click the "Software Update..." button.
  • Check Activity Monitor: Use Activity Monitor to see if any processes are consuming excessive CPU or memory resources. This can help you identify apps or processes that might be causing performance issues. Open Activity Monitor from the /Applications/Utilities/ folder.
  • Reinstall macOS: If all else fails, you can try reinstalling macOS. This will erase your hard drive, so make sure to back up your data first. You can reinstall macOS from the Recovery Mode. To enter Recovery Mode, turn on your MacBook and immediately press and hold the Command (⌘) and R keys until you see the Apple logo.

When to Contact Apple Support

While these troubleshooting steps can resolve many common issues, there are times when it's best to contact Apple Support. Here are some situations where you should seek professional help:

  • Hardware Failure: If you suspect a hardware failure, such as a failing hard drive, a broken display, or a malfunctioning logic board, it's best to contact Apple Support. They can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the faulty component.
  • Persistent Issues: If you've tried all the troubleshooting steps and the issues persist, it's possible that there's a deeper problem that requires professional attention.
  • Physical Damage: If your MacBook has been physically damaged, such as from a drop or a liquid spill, it's important to have it inspected by Apple Support. They can assess the damage and determine the best course of action.
  • Warranty Coverage: If your MacBook is still under warranty, you should definitely contact Apple Support for any hardware or software issues. They can provide free repairs or replacements, depending on the terms of your warranty.

Contacting Apple Support is easy. You can visit the Apple Support website, call them on the phone, or schedule an appointment at an Apple Store. Be sure to have your MacBook's serial number handy when you contact them. You can find the serial number in the "About This Mac" window.

Conclusion

So there you have it! Resetting the SMC on your MacBook Pro 2017 is a relatively simple process that can often resolve a variety of hardware-related issues. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily reset the SMC on your MacBook Pro, whether it has the Touch Bar or not. Remember to pay attention to the specific instructions for your model. And if resetting the SMC doesn't fix the problem, don't worry! There are plenty of other troubleshooting steps you can try. But if you suspect a hardware failure or if the issues persist, don't hesitate to contact Apple Support for professional help. Good luck, and I hope this guide helps you get your MacBook Pro 2017 running smoothly again! Remember to always back up your data before attempting any major troubleshooting steps. This will protect your valuable files in case something goes wrong. And if you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. I'm always happy to help! Cheers!