Every Mac has Apple Diagnostics built in. It checks the logic board, memory, battery, power adapter, sensors and wireless hardware without starting macOS. The steps depend on whether the Mac has an Apple silicon (M-series) or Intel processor.
Apple silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3, M4 and later)
- Shut down the Mac and disconnect everything except the keyboard, mouse, display and power.
- Press and hold the power button as the Mac turns on. Keep holding until startup options appear.
- Press Command (⌘) + D. Diagnostics starts and takes a few minutes.
Intel Macs
- Shut down the Mac and disconnect external devices.
- Turn it on and immediately press and hold D.
- Let go when the progress bar or language picker appears.
Read the results
No issues found means the hardware passed. Otherwise Apple Diagnostics shows reference codes. ADP000 also means no issues. Codes starting with PPT point to the battery, PPP to the power adapter, PPF to the fan and PFR to firmware. Write the codes down for Apple Support or a repair shop.
Check battery health and cycle count
- Open System Settings › Battery and click the ⓘ next to Battery Health. It should say Normal.
- Hold Option, click the Apple menu › System Information › Power, and check the Cycle Count. Most MacBooks are rated for 1,000 cycles.
Buying a used MacBook
In System Information › Hardware, Activation Lock Status must say Disabled. After erasing the Mac, it must restart to the setup screen with no Activation Lock or Remote Management prompt. Enter the serial number on Apple’s Check Coverage page to confirm the model.
Test the parts built-in tools miss
Manufacturer diagnostics check that hardware is connected, but they rarely test everything you use. The MxMob laptop test runs in the browser and checks each key on the keyboard, the trackpad, the webcam, speakers, microphone, real Wi-Fi speed, USB ports and overheating, then gives you a shareable report. Buying used? Follow the used laptop checklist.
Diagnostic guides for other brands
Frequently asked questions
How long does Apple Diagnostics take?
Usually 2 to 5 minutes. It doesn’t delete any data and you can restart normally when it finishes.
Does Apple Diagnostics test the keyboard and trackpad?
Not fully. It checks hardware connections but not every key. Use mxmob.com/keyboard-test and mxmob.com/mouse-test, or the full MxMob laptop test, to check each key and trackpad gesture.
What does battery Service Recommended mean on a MacBook?
The battery holds much less charge than new or has a fault. It still works but runs out sooner. Apple and authorized repair shops can replace it.