Likely fix
Fix: Some keyboard keys not working
Some keys usually stop working because of dirt, liquid damage, worn switches, keyboard layout settings, software remapping, or laptop keyboard hardware failure.
Quick answer
Test the keys in more than one app, clean around the affected keys, restart the computer, and try another keyboard to separate software from hardware.
Important warning
Do not pry laptop keys aggressively. Many laptop key mechanisms are fragile and easy to break.
Try this
- 1 Test the affected keys in a plain text app.
- 2 Restart the computer.
- 3 Check whether the keys fail in every app.
- 4 Gently clean around the affected keys.
- 5 Check keyboard layout and language settings.
- 6 Check whether key remapping software is installed.
- 7 Try another keyboard if available.
- 8 If the same physical keys never work, the keyboard may need repair or replacement.
Common causes
Dirt or crumbs under keys.
Liquid damage.
Worn key switch.
Keyboard layout issue.
Key remapping software.
Laptop keyboard hardware failure.
What to check next
- Check whether the same keys fail in every app.
- Check whether an external keyboard works.
- Check whether the keys feel physically stuck.
- Check whether the problem started after a spill.
- Check whether any keyboard remapping tools are installed.