Why won’t my MacBook Pro (Late 2008) turn on?

It sounds like a classic issue with the internal components of the MacBook Pro (Late 2008). Here are some troubleshooting steps from my experience:

1. NVRAM/PRAM Reset:
2. Hold down Command-Option-P-R.
3. Turn on the MacBook while holding these keys.
4. Continue holding the keys for about 20 seconds, then release them.
5. Check Internal Cables: Sometimes internal cable connections like the display cable can get loose over time, which prevents the laptop from turning on correctly.
6. External Monitor Test: Connect your MacBook to an external monitor to see if the issue is related to the built-in display.

I encountered this issue when my MacBook Pro (Late 2008) wouldn’t turn on, and it turned out to be a battery issue. Here’s what I did to troubleshoot and finally fix it:

1. Remove the Battery: Disconnect the battery to check if it’s causing a short circuit.
2. Power Without Battery: Try turning on the MacBook with the charger connected but without the battery. If it powers up, then the battery may need replacement.
3. Battery Replacement: If possible, use another battery that is known to be working, and see if it resolves the issue.

Taking these steps can often pinpoint battery or power-related issues.

If your MacBook Pro (Late 2008) won’t turn on, there could be several reasons behind it. As someone who faced this issue before, I would recommend checking the battery and power adapter first. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what I did to resolve the problem:

1. Check the Power Source: Ensure that the power adapter is correctly plugged into both the wall outlet and your MacBook.
2. Inspect the Charger: Make sure that your charger is working by trying it on another MacBook. Sometimes, the charger itself might be the culprit.
3. Perform an SMC Reset:
4. Shut down your MacBook.
5. Plug in the MagSafe power adapter to a power source.
6. On the built-in keyboard, press (left side) Shift-Control-Option and the power button simultaneously.
7. Release all the keys and the power button at once.
8. Press the power button again to turn on your MacBook.

This simple reset can fix many power-related issues on a MacBook.

Given that your MacBook Pro (Late 2008) won’t turn on, I can suggest checking for any internal hardware issues. As a tech enthusiast, I’ve observed this problem not only in MacBooks but also in various laptops over the years. Several internal components might affect the power-up sequence, such as the logic board, RAM, or the power button itself.

1. Disassemble the MacBook: If you are comfortable, carefully open the back cover of your MacBook.
2. Check for Visible Damage: Look for any burnt areas, broken connections, or loose components on the logic board.
3. Reseat the RAM: Remove the RAM modules and place them back properly. Faulty RAM can sometimes prevent the MacBook from starting.
4. Inspect the Power Button: Ensure that the power button is connected properly and not stuck due to debris.

Remember, if you are unsure about disassembling your MacBook, it is safer to consult a professional technician or visit an Apple store.

I faced a similar issue with another MacBook model, but I found a generalized solution that might work for your MacBook Pro (Late 2008). Sometimes, it’s not the fault in the hardware but software corruption preventing it from starting.

1. Recovery Mode:
2. Turn off your MacBook.
3. Turn it on and immediately press Command (⌘)-R until you see the Apple logo.

4. From the macOS Utilities window, select ‘Disk Utility’ and check the startup volume.

5. Safe Mode: Try booting into Safe Mode by holding the Shift key during startup. Safe Mode runs diagnostics and repairs the system.

When my MacBook Pro (Late 2008) wouldn’t turn on last year, the issue was with the thermal paste on the CPU and GPU overheating. An old computer can accumulate dust, and its thermal paste may dry out, causing overheating prevention that keeps it from turning on. Here’s what I did:

1. Open Up the MacBook: Remove the back cover carefully.
2. Clean the Inside: Gently clean out any dust using a can of compressed air.
3. Replace Thermal Paste: Remove the old thermal paste from the CPU and GPU with isopropyl alcohol and then apply a new layer. This can often help if overheating issues shut down the MacBook.

Again, if not comfortable, seek professional help for this procedure.