8 Solutions to Fix MacBook Bluetooth Not Turning On

If you're trying to connect your headphones to your MacBook and the Bluetooth won't turn on, you're not alone. Many MacBook users face this issue, but don't worry, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll explore some possible solutions to fix the Bluetooth not turning on problem on your MacBook.

1. Can't Find Bluetooth Icon

If you can't find the option to enable Bluetooth in the menu bar, here are two ways to turn it on:

Enable Bluetooth From Control Center

1. Click on the Control Center icon on the top right of your screen.
2. Look for the Bluetooth icon.
3. Try turning it on and see if it works.

Enable Bluetooth From Settings

1. Go to the Apple menu on the top left of your screen.
2. Open System Settings.
3. Click on the Bluetooth option on the left sidebar.
4. Switch on Bluetooth on the right.

2. Restart Mac

Sometimes a simple restart can fix the Bluetooth not turning on issue. Here's how to do it:

1. Go to the Apple menu on the top left of your screen.
2. Click on Restart.
3. Wait for the system to close all apps and background processes.
4. Once it restarts, check if Bluetooth works.

3. Reset Bluetooth Module

Resetting the Bluetooth module can clear minor glitches and restore proper connectivity. Here are two methods depending on your macOS version:

For Big Sur and Earlier

1. Hold Shift (Right) + Option (Right) on your keyboard.
2. Click on the Bluetooth icon on the top-right of your menu bar.
3. Click on Debug and choose Remove all devices.
4. Click on Debug again and select Reset the Bluetooth Module.
5. Restart your system and try turning on Bluetooth.

For Monterey and Ventura

1. Press Spacebar + Command on your keyboard to open Spotlight Search.
2. Type Terminal and open it.
3. Enter the command “sudo pkill bluetoothd” and press Return.
4. Type your MacBook password and hit Return.
5. Wait for the system to reset your Bluetooth.

4. Reset SMC

Resetting the SMC (System Management Controller) can help address hardware-related issues. Here's how to do it depending on your Mac model:

For Apple Silicon

1. Go to the Apple menu on the top-left of your screen.
2. Click on Shut Down.
3. Keep the lid closed for 30 seconds.
4. Power on your Mac.

For T2 Chip Mac

1. Go to the Apple menu on the top and click on Shut Down.
2. Press Control (left) + Option (Right) + Shift (Right) on your keyboard.
3. Press the Power button.
4. Hold all the buttons for 7-10 seconds.
5. Release the buttons and wait a few more seconds.
6. Power on your Mac normally.

For non-T2 Chip Mac

1. Go to the Apple menu on the top and click on Shut Down.
2. Press Control (left) + Option (left) + Shift (left) on your keyboard.
3. Press the Power button.
4. Hold the four keys for 10 seconds.
5. Release them.
6. Press the power button to start your Mac normally.

5. Reset NVRAM

Resetting NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random-Access Memory) can fix hardware-related issues. Here's how to do it on Intel-based Macs:

1. Go to the Apple menu and click on Shut Down.
2. Press the Power button to start your Mac.
3. Immediately press Option + Command + P + R on your keyboard.
4. Hold them for 20 seconds and release.
5. Your Mac will restart after the NVRAM is reset.

6. Delete PLIST Files

Deleting problematic PLIST (property list) files can resolve Bluetooth issues. Here's how to do it:

1. Minimize all apps on your screen.
2. Click on Go in the menu bar at the top.
3. Open Go to Folder.
4. Copy and paste the command “~/Library/Preferences/” and hit Return.
5. Look for PLIST files related to Bluetooth settings.
6. Drag these files to the Trash or move them to Trash via two-finger tap.
7. Empty the Trash.

7. Run First Aid

Running First Aid can diagnose and potentially fix issues related to your Mac's storage drive. Here's how to do it:

1. Press Spacebar + Command to open Spotlight Search.
2. Enter Disk Utility and open it.
3. Select your system drive from the left sidebar.
4. Click on First Aid at the top menu bar.
5. Choose Run in the dialog box.
6. Click Continue to start running First Aid.

8. Upgrade macOS

Upgrading your macOS to the latest version can sometimes fix Bluetooth issues. Here's how to do it:

1. Go to the Apple menu at the top-left of your screen.
2. Click on System Settings.
3. Scroll down and open General on the left sidebar.
4. On the right, open Software Update.
5. Wait for the system to check for updates.
6. Click on Update Now.

Bluetooth Is Now Ready to Connect

Bluetooth on your MacBook is essential for connecting peripherals. Hopefully, one of these solutions has fixed the Bluetooth not turning on issue on your Mac. Now you can enjoy seamless Bluetooth connectivity on your MacBook.