Trackpad Problem

[Illustrial]

Hello.

I'm having a few problems with the trackpad on my mid-2010 13" MBP.

The problem pertains to the dragging functionality. I am able to drag things when I double tab and drag, but I am unable to drag by merely clicking the trackpad and dragging.

This problem only started occurring today.

I've updated everything with software update (incase it was a rare problem which could be patched with software), and I've also tried resetting the PRAM. Neither of these have fixed the problem.

Does anybody have any suggestions that preferably doesn't involve an Apple Store? My nearest one is an hour away, and it's a pain to get there.

Cheers.

 

[DustinT]

Check your trackpad options in system preferences. I've attached a screenshot of mine where it works properly.

 

[Illustrial]

Thank you for the reply.

I've matched your setting, but unfortunately this doesn't seem to help.

Something I've noticed, after I click the trackpad and try dragging, the window will drag, but for about half a second.

Edit - I tried a couple of things I found on Apple's support forum. One of which was turn the laptop on its side and tap the trackpad repeatedly, which supposedly removed any dust or dirt from inside. It has fixed the problem to some degree, but I still have to press down really hard.

 

[DustinT]

Sounds like you need some work on the trackpad. If you have AppleCare I'd take it in for repairs.

 

[Illustrial]

Yeah, I've got AppleCare until August, but as I've said, it's a bit of a pain having to get to my nearest Apple store.

Do you think it would be viable unscrewing the botton and just blowing some air at the underside of the trackpad? This could clear any of the dirt underneath of the trackpad, and would save me a trip to the Apple Store.

 

[bigjobby]

I've had a similar problem where the trackpad refuses to acknowledge clicks (right and left). Workaround for me was to spin the MBP upside-down and give it a few gentle taps on the belly. Its as if there's a spring or something that's got dislodged but not sure what. However, the problem does always come back before I give it the treatment again otherwise I use tap to click (CTRL+tap to right click). At least this buys me some time before visiting a Genius.