Need help with 2014 MacBook Pro 15”

[Nascar_Perry]

I wanted to get some feedback on a unique problem I have been having with my MacBook Pro and what my next steps should be, not only to avoid a heavy repair bill, but also to avoid downtime with Apple.

MacBook Pro Specs:
Mid-2014 15” Retina
Model A1398

Around a year and a half ago, the keyboard began having issues, first the “U” would not work unless you put your finger on it and wiggled. Eventually the following keys would completely stop working “U” “I” “O” with one exception: when logging on, the “I” would be in a constant on mode (iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii) until I hit any other key for it to stop.

Now this is the most primary problem I am having with it, but to make matters even more worst, one day I went to switch to Windows (Bootcamp) and have not been able to switch back because of this keyboard issue. On startup, the key press issue does not allow me to use Command+R or S or any of them. (clicking Restart in OSX) will not currently work and says Could Not locate the OS X boot volume.... but this is a secondary problem for a separate day to figure out. Right now I am more deadest on figuring out what is wrong with the keyboard and how to fix it.

Backlighting works and all other functions work, external keyboards do not solve this problem.

 

[Nascar_Perry]

Anyone with any ideas?

 

[doynton]

I have the same problem with same model (see here). If you are stuck in Windows you can try searching for "Devices" in Settings and disable the Apple internal trackpad and keyboard. That let me use external keyboard/mouse fine which I couldn't as otherwise the RHS shift was always seen as depressed. You have to repeat it it after every boot though as it gets automatically re-added.

As the same keyboard issues happen in macOS, Windows and EFI (and with internal, external or onscreen keyboard) I figure it isn't software. I can't use macOS as it always boots in safe mode due to shift being depressed.

I ordered a replacement keyboard and screws from eBay but it hasn't arrived yet. It doesn't look that hard to replace the keyboard but not exactly trivial either. I'll give an update if it works.

 

[BuCkDoG]

No idea on this sorry. Best of luck.

 

[Fishrrman]

Could the battery be swelling up inside?

If you have a brick-n-mortar Apple Store anywhere close, I'd make an appointment for the Genius Bar, and ask them to remove the back panel and check the battery for you (if you don't want to open it and check yourself).

If it IS the battery, I believe a replacement costs $200 (parts and labor).
They -might- cover it. Even if they don't the replacement will be worth the money.