Mouse cursor not moving on 2008 macbook?

The cursor only works when a USB mouse is connected to the unit, is this software or hardware problem please?

mikehende said:

The cursor only works when a USB mouse is connected to the unit, is this software or hardware problem please?

Click to expand...

There's a very good chance that your trackpad has failed...the older the laptop the more likely (just because of age & use). Since this is a 2008 MacBook...you will need to replace the whole topcase (the trackpad is not a separate part).

I've had this happen to me...and I had to do the same thing (use a usb mouse) until I was able to do the repair.

- Nick

Hey Nick, how are you, been a while , Thanks for the info but from the tutorials on this, changing the entire case means scrapping the entire laptop, yeeesh!

mikehende said:

Thanks for the info but from the tutorials on this, changing the entire case means scrapping the entire laptop, yeeesh!

Click to expand...

Where did you hear/read this. That's a bunch of BS!

You're not changing the entire case...just the topcase. Which is the part that includes the keyboard, trackpad & mouse button, power button, and speakers. If I remember correctly...you just remove about 8-10 small screws/machine bolts...and detach just one cable...and the topcase is removed!

If you're not super picky...an "ugly" (but working) topcase can be purchased via e-Bay for "cheap". Here's one for just $12.99 (+ shipping):

13" MacBook Keyboard A1181 Trackpad Topcase Palmrest | eBay

If you want a "pretty" topcase (no cracks)...it's going to cost more.

Also...check the replacement procedure at:

- iFixit: The free repair manual

...and you will see that you do not have to scrap the entire laptop to change the topcase!

- Nick

Thanks for the link and yes I understand it's only the top case which needs replacing but according to the guide here below, you will need to do much more than simply:

you just remove about 8-10 small screws/machine bolts...and detach just one cable...and the topcase is removed!

MacBook Pro 13" Unibody Mid 2009 Upper Case Replacement - iFixit