10 Fixes USB-C Not Working on MacBook (USB-C Hub, Sonoma)

Here's why your Mac USB-C Port not working for External Accessories like USB-C Hub, External Monitor, External Hard Drive (SSD)...

The USB C Port is a high-speed, Compact, bidirectional, reversible, versatile connector that can act as multiple port types. Therefore, the user mainly depends on a universal port for video, audio, or data transmission and for charging devices.

Thus, if your USB C port isn’t working on MacBook Pro, it will halt your work mid-way. Ultimately it will affect your work and efficiency; hence, it became a head-scratcher for you to fix. But don’t worry; we will guide you with a quick and simple solution to fix USB C not working on MacBook Pro. Read along to learn the detailed step-by-step solution.

Identify & fix your Mac USB-C Problems: Here are 10 fixes

1. Reboot your Mac

Often, the issue is not significant, so; Simple, straightforward Reboot can also resolve it. Hence, restarting your system as the primary solution for USB C is not working on your MacBook Pro. Therefore, to Restart your MacBook pro go to Apple Logo, then select the Restart Option.

2. Update Mac OS

Sometimes USB C not working on MacBook Pro may arise due to outdated system software. Hence, you should check for a system update. Suppose an Update is available, then update the system Software.

Here’s how you check for Mac System Updates

1. Go to AppleLogo On your Mac and Click on System Settings

2. Now, select Software Update.

3. Software Update Window appears; Check whether a new Update is available. 

4. If yes, click Update Now or Upgrade Now to install the Latest updates.

Software Update on Mac in macOS Ventura

5. If it asks for a password, enter the administrator password.

The above process may restart your Mac, and you might often see a Progress bar or blank screen. Wait a While. You don’t need to update if it says your Mac is up to date. Otherwise, it opts for Update with permission.

3. Check for faulty USB device

Ensure you are not trying to connect a faulty external device to a MacBook Pro. Hence, it’s not the USB C port of the Macbook Pro but the defective External Device responsible for the USB C port Connection issue.

4. How to Check If External Device is Faulty or Not?

The Quick and easiest way is to try to connect another USB device to the USB C port of MacBook Pro. The issue lies with the previous Faulty External device if it works fine.

The second way is to connect the faulty device to another Mac. So, if the device is at fault, it won’t work with another Mac.

The Third way is to Check for External devices in “System Information.” Here’s how you can do it.

1# Open Spotlight search (Press Command +Space key).

2# Search for System Information.

system-information-on-mac
system-information-on-mac

3# From the Left Sidebar, Select “USB.”

check-usb-in-system-information
check-usb-in-system-information

Next From, Right Side, expands Drop Down of the USB and check whether the Name of your USB device is present. If You find the Name of your USB device, it means your USB C port is working perfectly, but the USB device is faulty.

At last, also make sure that the cable you are using to connect the USB device is not worn out or drawing too much power or overheating. Hence in that case issue is with cable. So, change the cable as soon as possible.

4. Clean USB C Port

Suppose you have an old Mac book Pro, or you are using it in the dusty surrounding, So the USB C port gets clogged with dirt, grime, or gunk. It is leading to frequent connection issues. Therefore, cleaning the Port will solve the problem of the USB C port not working on the mac book pro issue.

First, to clean the USB C Port, Power Off your device. And follow any of the methods listed below.

Using Compressed Air

This method is the safest to clean any electronic gadgets. Therefore, use a canister of compressed Air to clean the USB C Port of the Macbook Pro. You can spray or use a nozzle at the right angle to eliminate dust and debris. It will also help clear stubborn gunk inside the USB C port.

Using Toothpick

The Compressed air method is safest, but sometimes dirt gets stuck tightly. Hence, you need to pick it out manually. The best tool is a wooden tooth stick, or you can use a thin pointed object but not a metal one because metal objects like safety pins or needles are so hard and sharp they can damage the Port.

Insert the narrow end of the wooden toothpick inside the USB C port to the bottom, then gently move the toothpick around the Port to loosen the dust. Next, Slowly Flick it out of the USB C port.

Using isopropyl alcohol

Use isopropyl alcohol when cleaning stubborn dirt formed due to food or liquid inside. Make sure to use 99% isopropyl alcohol. Further, you need to moisten a small piece of cotton with it to use it. Next, insert this cotton piece using a tooth stick inside the Port and move it around to wipe dirt before the alcohol evaporates.

5. Reset the USB port on Mac

Resetting the USB port on a MacBook Pro is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it.

1# Goto Finder > Application.

2# Under Utilities, Click on Terminal.

Alternatively,

1# Open Spotlight Search (Press the Command + Space bar).

2# Now, Type “Terminal” in the Search box and press Return.

open-terminal-on-mac
open-terminal-on-mac

3# Copy the command “sudo kextunload IOUSBMassStorageClass.kext” Paste it into the Terminal console, and Press Return on the keyboard.

sudo kextunload IOUSBMassStorageClass.kext
reset-usb-port-on-mac
reset-usb-port-on-mac

You can reset the USB C port using the above steps without restarting your Mac. Further, to re-enable Port, follow the next solution to reset SMC.

6. Reset SMC (System Management Controller)

Once you are sure that the device is not faulty and the USB C port is having an issue, resetting SMC will help solve the problem. The SMC reset process varies according to the Mac model.

Reset SMC For Apple Silicon Model

Suppose you need to know what processor your MacBook Pro has. Here is a list of MacBook Pro with Apple Silicon Processor.

  • MacBook Pro (13-inch,2022)
  • MacBook Pro (14-inch,2021)
  • MacBook Pro (16-inch,2021)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, M1,2020)

The Apple Silicon doesn’t require any extra steps to reset SMC. However, you need to restart your MacBook Pro or else shut down and turn it on.

Reset SMC for Mac with T2 Chip

For your knowledge, here is a list of MacBook Pros with Apple T2 chips.

  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
  • MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports)
  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2019)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2018)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)

Follow the below-mentioned steps to Reset SMC for MacBook pro with Apple T2 chip.

1# Shut Down Your MacBook Pro.

2# Simultaneously Press and hold the Control key on the left-hand side Option Key on the left-hand side +Shift key on the right-hand side of your keyboard for 7 Seconds.

3# Next, Press the Power button also combination.

4# Hold all four key combinations for 7 Seconds and then release all.

5# Wait a While, then Press Power Button to turn on your MacBook Pro.

7. Reset NVRAM (Non-volatile random-access memory)

The NVRAM stores information regarding time zone, display, volume, startup disk selection, etc. Therefore, resetting NVRAM may resolve the USB C port not working on MacBook pro.

The MacBook Pro with Apple Silicon does not require resetting NVRAM. Because it automatically resets if needed. However, Intel-based Mac requires resetting NVRAM manually.

Follow these steps to reset NVRAM on an Intel base MacBook Pro.

1# Shut down your MacBook Pro.

2# Turn on your MacBook Pro and simultaneously press and hold the “Option +Command + P + R” four keys.

3# After 20 Seconds, release the keys. While this process, your Mac may appear to have a restart. For instance, you can hear a startup sound or see the apple logo more than once.

4# Once your MacBook Pro restarts, you can change the system setting that was reset during the process.

That’s it; here is a detailed How to reset NVRAM on Mac guide that you can refer to get more insight into.

Now plug the device into the USB C port and check whether it’s working.

8. Boot in Safe Mode to check for software issues.

Boot mac safe Mode will help you determine if the issue you are facing is due to software that loads on startup. Therefore, In Safe Mode, Mac will prevent software from loading during startup. Ultimately, it will help you resolve your issue.

The Boot in Safe Mode has different procedures for Apple silicon Mac and Intel-based Mac. Hence first check what type of MacBook Pro you have, then accordingly follow the steps. For that, go to Apple Menu, then About This Mac. Here If you find a Chip, it’s an Apple silicon Mac. Else if you find a processor, then it’s an Intel-based Mac.

Start Apple Silicon Mac in Safe Mode.

Here are steps to Boot MacBook Pro with Apple Silicon in Safe Mode.

1# On your Mac, Go to Apple Menu, then Select Shut Down.

2#Wait a while till Mac completely shuts down. Next, Keep Pressing the Power button on MacBook Pro until the “Loading startup option” Appears.

3#Now Select “Volume.”

4# Press and hold the Shift key on the keyboard and click continue in Safe Mode.”

turn-on-m1-mac-in-safe-mode
turn-on-m1-mac-in-safe-mode

Your Mac will restart in Safe Mode. Now Connect the USB device to the Port and check whether it’s working.

Start Intel base Processor Mac in Safe Mode.

Here are steps to Boot MacBook Pro with intel processor in Safe Mode.

1# Restart or turn on your MacBook, and instantly press and hold the shift key until the login window is visible.

2# Next, Log in to your MacBook.

3# You may be again asking to log in. So, in the first or second login, you can see Safe Boot in the Menu bar.

Your Mac will restart in Safe Mode. Now Connect the USB device to the Port and check whether it’s working.

9. Run Apple Diagnostic

The Apple diagnostic will check your MacBook for Hardware related issues. Hence it will help you find which component of your MacBook is at fault. In addition, it will also suggest solutions. Before running Apple Diagnostics to test your Mac, prepare your Mac to run diagnostics.

Shut down your Mac and disconnect all external devices except the mouse, keyboard, display, ethernet, and AC power connection. Further, ensure that your MacBook is on a flat, stable surface with ventilation.

For Apple Silicon Mac

1# Turn on your Mac and continuously press the power button while Mac Starts up.

2# Release the Power button once you see the startup Option Window with Volume and Gear icon options.

3# At last Press Command + D” key on your Keyboard.

Next, it will show a Progress bar.

For Intel Processor Mac

1# Turn on your MacBook and Immediately Press and hold the “D” key on the keyboard while your Mac starts up.

2# Release the key once you see the progress bar, or else ask to choose a language.

Once the diagnostic is complete, it will display the result. If you want to repeat the test, click “Run the test again.” Else, press “Command +R.” In addition, to restart your Mac, select Restart Option or Press R. To shut down your Mac, click Shut down or Press S.

If your Mac has internet connectivity, you can get information regarding your service and support options by clicking “Get started” or pressing “Command +G.” It will display a webpage with more details. Hence once you are done, restart or shut down your Mac.

10. Contact Apple Support

At last, if Apple Diagnostic won’t find any hardware issue, you must Contact Apple Support. Then, you can schedule a visit and check your MacBook Pro with Professionals.

FAQ

Q1. How do I reset the USB-C Port on my Mac?

To reset USB C Port on your Mac, follow the quick steps below.

Go to Terminal >Type Command “sudo kextunload IOUSBMassStorageClass.kext”> Press Return.
The Above steps will solve how I reset my Mac’s USB ports without restarting. For detailed steps, kindly check solution 5 of the above article. Further, to enable the USB port, you need to reset SMC.

Q2. How do I test my USB-C Port?

Here are simple and quick ways to test the USB-C Port.

FIRST– Try connecting a USB device to your Mac. If it doesn’t work, then connect another USB device to Mac. Suppose the second device works perfectly; the issue is with the first external device, not the Port.

SECOND– Try connecting a USB device to your Mac. If it doesn’t work, then connect it to another Mac. And suppose it doesn’t work either on the second Mac, then the issue lies with the USB Device itself and not USB C Port.

THIRD– Test USB C port via System Information.

Spotlight Search > System Information > Select “USB” at the Left sidebar
On the right side, you can see all the information regarding all your USB Ports. For specific ports, click on it to see further details. Now Check for your USB device name here. If you see the Name of your connected USB device, then your Port is not having an issue, but it’s the device.

Q3. Why is my Mac not detecting my USB?

If you are facing issues like Why won’t my Mac read my USB? Then There are several reasons for Mac not detecting your USB. First, try out the following solution and check whether it works.

1. Ensure that the USB device is turned on and properly connected with cables. Try connecting a USB device to another port on the same Mac or a different one. If it is still not detected, then the issue is with the USB device. Hence contact the manufacturer or else send for repair.
2. Check that the cable is not worn out or not transmitting enough power.
3. Use a Compatible USB device to a Compatible USB hub. For instance, you can only use a USB 3.0 device with a USB 3.0 hub.
4. Update your USB device software if available.
5. Disconnect all other external devices except the mouse, keyboard, and device you are testing.
6. Check that the USB device appears in System Information.
Spotlight Search > System Information > USB
If the device appears in the list means the device is having an issue, so follow troubleshooting.
7. Check that the USB C port on your Mac is not clogged with lint or dust particles.
8. Reboot your Mac. Again, try to connect your USB device.

Using the above solution, you will solve Why is my Mac not reading my USB?

Do all USB-C cables work on Mac?

Each Mac model comes with unique characteristics, functions, and Ports. Furthermore, Each Port has a different power supply and speed capacity.

There are several USB C cables available in the market. However, some non-compliant cables won’t offer the speed or transfer of data as promised and draw more power. Thus, it can damage your MacBook’s device and USB C Port.

All USB C cables will work with Mac, but the reputed brand will offer excellent performance. Before buying a USB, C cable must check that particular cable is compatible with the Speed or power supply of the Port on your Mac. Else it will hinder performance or can damage your device and Port.

How do I enable USB ports on my Mac?
Or how do I unblock my USB-C Port?

Suppose your USB port on your Mac is not working or, for any other reason, you want to enable the USB port on your Mac. Unfortunately, there is no direct method to enable a USB port or clear a blocked USB-C on Mac. However, you can Enable USB ports using Terminal, Repair the disk drive & Fix using the macOS installation setup. For a detailed solution, head to how to enable/unblock USB ports on Mac.

What can damage a USB-C port?

Here are some of the reasons which can damage a USB C port.

Forcefully inserting or removing a USB cable can break solder joints on the USB C port.

Tossing and dropping MacBook. At the same time, it’s connected via a USB C cable can damage the pins of the USB Port.

Try to insert a noncompatible line into the USB C port.

Using Metal objects like safety pins or needles to clean the Port.

Why is USB-C such a mess?

USB C is a mess due to compatibility issues, conflicting fast charging standards, varied data speed, and lack of a general simple information guide.

Why did my USB ports suddenly stop working?

There are some reasons for USB ports suddenly stop working.

Make sure that the USB port is not broken.
Check that cable is not defective.
Check for lint and dust in Port.
Make sure you use a compatible device and cable for the USB port.

How do I know if my USB-C cable is working?

USB C cable is working and not damaged if it transfers data or power at the speed mentioned.

How do I clean the C port on my MacBook?

You can use Compressed Air, wooden toothpicks, or isopropyl alcohol to clean the USB C port on your Mac. For a detailed procedure, kindly check solution 4 of the above article.

Where are USB settings on Mac?

You can find USB settings under “System Information >USB” on Mac. Moreover, you can also check storage for USB settings.

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Karly Wood

Karly Wood is a journalist based in Ohio who specializes in covering Apple and technology trends. With a varied experience in reporting on public safety, government, and education, her insights bridge multiple disciplines, providing readers with a well-rounded perspective on today's technological advancements. If you need to contact me, you can reach me at [email protected] or through (Facebook)

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