Lenovo keyboard not working? Here's how to fix it

When you’re plugged in and chipping away at an important document or essay, the last thing you need is a laptop key not working. 

When you’re having tech troubles, count on Asurion for quick fixes, tech care, and expert advice—all in one place. Here’s how you can tackle a Lenovo® laptop with keyboard trouble. 

Common Lenovo laptop keyboard problems

When your Lenovo laptop keyboard stops working, the cause can range from hardware issues to software glitches. Here are a few common problems users face:

• Unresponsive keys. 
• Entire keyboard malfunction. 
• Laggy typing. 
• Intermittent issues.  

These problems can occur for a variety of reasons, including physical damage, outdated drivers, or changes in your system’s settings.

Why is my Lenovo keyboard not working?

Your Lenovo keyboard might stop working for various reasons, from software problems to physical damage. 

• Driver issues. Outdated or broken drivers can prevent your keyboard from functioning correctly.
• Incorrect settings. Keyboard settings like Sticky Keys or FilterKeys could interfere with normal operation.
• Physical damage. Dust, debris, or water damage may render certain keys or the entire keyboard unusable.
• Software conflicts. Recently installed programs or updates could cause compatibility issues.
• Hardware malfunctions. In rare cases, the internal hardware that controls the keyboard may fail.

Ways to fix a Lenovo laptop keyboard malfunction

If your Lenovo laptop keyboard isn't working, don’t panic. Follow these steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue.

Check for physical damage

The first thing to do is check for any physical damage. Recent dents, dings, or encounters with liquids can cause the keyboard to malfunction. 

In this case, you may need to reach out to an expert for help repairing it.

Clean the keyboard

Accumulated dust or debris can cause keys to become unresponsive if they become trapped underneath a key. Take a moment to give your keyboard a quick cleaning. 

First, shut down your laptop and unplug it. Then, gently tilt it upside down and tap it lightly to dislodge any loose debris. Use a can of compressed air to blow away dust and dirt from between the keys. If you notice any sticky or unresponsive keys, make a solution of 50/50 isopropyl alcohol and water, dab it on a soft cloth, and carefully clean the keys with it.

Restart your Lenovo laptop

Sometimes, a simple restart is all it takes to fix a malfunctioning keyboard. Restarting your system refreshes its processes and may resolve temporary software glitches affecting the keyboard.

1. Click the Start menu, then select Power > Restart.
2. Wait for your laptop to restart, and check whether the keyboard is working.

Use an external keyboard

If the built-in keyboard isn’t working, using an external keyboard can be a temporary fix while you troubleshoot the issue. This will also help you determine whether the problem is hardware- or software-related.

Plug the USB keyboard into your laptop or connect it via Bluetooth®. Check to make sure the external keyboard works. If it does, the issue is likely with the internal keyboard, not the software.

Adjust the keyboard settings

Incorrect keyboard settings can cause your keyboard issues. Double-check your settings to ensure everything is configured correctly. Here’s how to access your keyboard settings:

1. Open the Start menu, and type "control panel."
2. Select Control Panel > Ease of Access > Change how your keyboard works.
3. Click Make the keyboard easier to use, and clear any settings like Sticky Keys or FilterKeys that could interfere with normal keyboard use.

Update your software

Outdated software can lead to keyboard compatibility issues. Updating your software is an efficient way to tackle two troubleshooting steps at once. It not only updates your system but also your keyboard drivers—software that helps your computer’s components function properly—which you would have to update manually otherwise.

1. Open the Start menu, and go to Settings.
2. Select Update & Security, and click Check for updates. If any updates are available, download and install them, then restart your laptop.

Uninstall and reinstall keyboard drivers

Faulty or outdated drivers can cause the keyboard to malfunction. Reinstalling the drivers can help fix the issue.

How to uninstall and reinstall keyboard drivers

1. Rght-click the Start menu, and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Keyboards section, and right-click your keyboard driver.
3. Select Uninstall, then restart your laptop. Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.

Put your laptop in Safe Mode

Restarting the laptop in Safe Mode can help determine whether third-party software is causing the issue. In Safe Mode, only essential drivers and services run, so if your keyboard works here, a recently installed program may be the culprit.