ESC Key Not Working on Mac: How to Fix Escape Button on MacBook Air/Pro?

My MacBook's Escape (Esc) key frequently malfunctions, especially when force-quitting apps. This article explores troubleshooting steps for a non-responsive Esc key on a Mac.

Understanding the Escape Key

Located in the top-left corner, the Esc key primarily interrupts actions. On Macs, it's crucial for the Command Option Escape force-quit shortcut. While not frequently used by all, it's invaluable for macOS keyboard shortcuts.

Why Your Escape Key Might Fail

A malfunctioning Esc key stems from either hardware (physical keyboard damage, liquid spills) or software (macOS glitches, app conflicts, Siri interference) issues. Hardware problems require professional assistance.

For software-related issues, consider these solutions. However, if your MacBook experienced physical trauma (drops, spills), seek professional help. MacKeeper's Premium Services offer toll-free expert support.

To contact MacKeeper's Premium Services:

1. Launch MacKeeper and select Premium Services from the sidebar.
2. Click Chat Now.

Resolving Esc Key Issues

These solutions address software-based problems:

1. Reboot Your Mac: A simple reboot often resolves temporary software glitches. Close all apps and processes.

   1. Access Apple menu > Restart.
   2. Choose whether to reopen apps upon restart and click Restart.

   

   

2. Restart or Disable Siri: Siri interference can sometimes affect the Esc key.

   1. Go to Apple menu > System Settings.
   2. Select Siri & Spotlight from the sidebar.
   3. Toggle off the Ask Siri slider.

   

   

   

3. Update macOS: Outdated software can cause glitches.

   1. Access Apple menu > System Settings (System Preferences on older macOS).
   2. Click Software Update under General.
   3. Install available updates.

   

   

   

4. Safe Mode Boot: Safe mode loads only essential processes, helping isolate the problem's source. The process differs based on your processor (Apple Silicon or Intel). Check Apple menu > About This Mac to identify your processor.

   Apple Silicon:

   1. Apple menu > Shut Down.
   2. Hold the Power button until "Loading startup options" appears.
   3. Select your disk.
   4. Hold Shift and choose Continue in Safe Mode.

   Intel:

   1. Hold Shift during startup.
   2. Release Shift at the login window. "Safe Boot" appears in the menu bar.

5. Accessibility Keyboard: This on-screen keyboard helps determine if the issue is hardware or software-related.

   1. Apple menu > System Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard.
   2. Enable Accessibility Keyboard. Test the Esc key.

   

   

   

   

6. Run Maintenance Scripts: Manually run system maintenance scripts via Terminal:

   1. Open Terminal (via Spotlight Search: Command Space).
   2. Enter sudo periodic daily weekly monthly and press Enter. Provide your password.

   

   

Conclusion

Various factors can cause an unresponsive Esc key. If these steps fail, contact MacKeeper's Premium Services for expert assistance.

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