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.
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!
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):
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!
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