MacBook – Only one USB-C port will charge the MacBook Pro

chargerchargingmacbook prothunderboltusb

I've had my MacBook Pro (13-inch, Late 2016, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports) for over a year and I've never had any problems with charging until now. I was always able to use both USB-C ports for charging, but I just tried using the port that I don't usually use for charging (the one closest to me) and it just doesn't charge. I can use this same port to charge my phone, but when I try to charge my MacBook with it, it just does nothing. How can I fix this?

Best Answer

So, to summarize, the port works for all functions (USB connectivity, display, etc) including charging downstream devices (like a smartphone), but you cannot charge the MacBook.

  • Your SMC chip needs to be reset. Hold ^ Control⇧ Shift⌥ Option ⦿ Power from a powered off state.
  • There is failed component in the charging circuitry.

USB 3.1 (power delivery) negotiates power. When you connect your power adapter to the port, it basically says "I'm a power adapter and I can charge." The device (MacBook) will respond "I need X" and will negotiate with adapter for what can be delivered. Once negotiated, the adapter sends the power and the USB port passes it to the charging circuit (handled by the SMC)

What could be happening here is one of two things:

  • The port is no longer negotiating for power (unlikely because the port still functions otherwise
  • The charging circuitry physically isn't getting the power (a broken electrical path)

If the SMC reset doesn't fix, take it in for service.

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