MBP 13" Number keys don't work sometimes

[M_Six]

My (late 2012?) MBP number keys usually don't work until I hit a lot of them by randomly typing on them quickly. Almost like I have to wake them up. Then they'll sort of work for a bit before failing again. To type the numbers and parentheses in this post, I had to use the on-screen keyboard. I've tried resetting the PRAM and even wiped the hard drive and reloaded the OS again. No restore from backup either. It was a fresh install. I had trouble immediately because I couldn't type in the @ symbol to log into my Apple account.

So it doesn't appear to be a software issue. And the keys will work for a bit if I hit them all enough times. But that gets old real fast when I need to type a number.

Do the number keys use a separate logic board from the other keys? Is it possible to replace the keyboard? And if so, is it difficult?

Any suggestions that I haven't tried?

 

[chscag]

Any spills on your keyboard? How about checking your battery to see if it has swelled and possibly pressing up against the keyboard. That can cause the problem you're experiencing. Let us know.

 

[M_Six]

No spills. I'll check the battery.

 

[ferrarr]

Try an SMC reset, https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201295

 

[M_Six]

Try an SMC reset, https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201295

I tried this and the number keys appeared to work in Notes upon booting. But when I try to type a number here, they work intermittently again.

1234567890

I had to hold down the 1 for several seconds to get it to show. Same with several others. These are the same symptoms I've experienced all along. At some point the low numbers won't work at all until I make some major change like resetting the SMC or creating a new account. Then they'll work right off the bat, but start to fail within minutes. Very frustrating.

 

[Audit13]

Everything works with an external USB or bluetooth keyboard? Possibly defective keyboard?

There is no logic board on the keyboard that can be replaced. The keyboard connects to the motherboard with a single, flat ribbon cable.

 

[M_Six]

Yes, a USB keyboard works fine. We have a authorized Apple store on campus, so I may drop it off with them to have it checked out. Even if it's a few hundred to fix, it's better than having to spring for a new one.

 

[M_Six]

Just a quick update...had an Apple tech replace the keyboard, which meant a new partial case, but the number keys are now working. Unfortunately he didn't test all the keys, I guess, and I got home to find my P key doesn't work. I have to use the on-screen keyboard to type it. Might be something stuck under it or whatever. He'll be seeing my machine back on his desk Monday.

 

[M_Six]

Finally got a working replacement keyboard. All is well again. Wasn't even that pricey to fix. About $130. Well worth the cost.

 

[chscag]

Thanks for letting us know.