Apple Acknowledges Some MacBook Pros Are Shutting Down Unexpectedly

If your 2019 MacBook Pro keeps unexpectedly shutting down, you aren’t alone. There are plenty of reports of the issue spread across various Apple forums and social media sites. In fact, Apple has issued a support document acknowledging the issue and outlining a few steps that users can try to troubleshoot the bug.

The specific MacBook Pro in question is the 13-inch model equipped with two Thunderbolt 3 ports, which Apple released back in July 2019.

As far as we can tell, the 13-inch model with four Thunderbolt 3 ports appears to be unaffected.

According to user reports, the 13-inch MacBook Pro appears to shut down unexpectedly when it hits about 25 to 50 perfect battery life. From there, users can only get it back on by plugging in the charger.

While it isn’t clear what’s causing the problem, it’s likely related to either the battery or the software power management system. In any case, it does appear to be a persistent issue for impacted users.

We also don’t know how widespread it is, but one user reported that they took their faulty device to Apple only to receive a replacement that eventually exhibited the exact same problem.

Apple has detailed a multi-step process that it says could help mitigate the problem. It’s definitely worth a shot, but your own mileage may vary.

1. Make sure your MacBook Pro has under 90 percent battery life left.
2. Connect your MacBook Pro to a charger.
3. Immediately close all open apps and shut the lid on your MacBook Pro, which triggers Sleep Mode.
4. Finally, Apple says you should leave your device like this — uninterrupted — for at least eight hours.

Because of the timeframe, this is likely going to be an overnight solution for most users. But be sure to check it out once you follow the steps.

Apple also says that users should update to the latest available version of macOS if they haven’t already, suggesting that the problem may be tied to a software issue.

If the fix doesn’t work, Apple says that users should contact Apple Support to set up a repair and diagnostic appointment. (Since Christmas is fast approaching, you may want to do that before or after the holiday rush.)