MacBook Pro M2 keyboard acting as if Shift key is pressed, preventing login

Macbook Pro M2 (13 inch )

The built-in keyboard is permanently acting as if the Shift key is pressed. When I press any number key (1,2,3), the output is the corresponding symbol (!,@,#) instead of the number itself. Critical Troubleshooting Status: Stuck at Login: I cannot log in because I cannot enter the numbers in my password. Software Eliminated: I have tried pressing the Shift key five times (Sticky Keys toggle) multiple times, but the issue persists.The problem is still present when booting the Mac into macOS Recovery Mode (under the "Options" gear icon).



[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: keyboard malfunctioning

MacBook Pro 13″

Posted on Oct 25, 2025 2:58 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 25, 2025 3:17 AM

"keyboard malfunctioning: Macbook Pro M2 (13 inch ) The built-in keyboard is permanently acting as if the Shift key is pressed. When I press any number key (1,2,3), the output is the corresponding symbol (!,@,#) instead of the number itself. Critical Troubleshooting Status: Stuck at Login: I cannot log in because I cannot enter the numbers in my password. Software Eliminated: I have tried pressing the Shift key five times (Sticky Keys toggle) multiple times, but the issue persists.The problem is still present when booting the Mac into macOS Recovery Mode (under the "Options" gear icon)."

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Mac Keyboard Stalled:


A. External Keyboard:

Plug in an external keyboard, and see if you can get around this. For your device, you'll need this adapter: USB-C to USB Adapter - Apple. Have none? Ask someone else if you may use their's with them at your side while you do so.


B. Boot in Safe Mode:

Start up your Mac in safe mode - Apple Support

In Safe Mode, damaged system files are performed, and temporary files(caches) can be cleared.


C. Cleaning the Keyboard:

Any debris below the key? If so, that may be causing and up-press, restoring it from going up or down. Air canister is what to user here.


D. Remove Keyboard Covers:

Are you using a keyboard dover? If so, stop using it, as it causes condensation from underneath the keyboard.


E. Reinstall the macOS:

Nothing would be lost. It's just that misplaced items would be placed back to where they should be and corrupt system files would be replaced by clean files. Go Here: Reinstall macOS - Apple Support. Use the third bulleted method: [command + r].  Important: Prior to installing an update or performing a reinstallation, to prevent data loss, be sure to Back up your Mac with Time Machine.


F. Getting this Serviced:

  • Apple Store:

Set up a Genius Bar Appointment at your local Apple Store. There, it will be looked at and you'll be provided with your options.

  • An AASP(Apple Authorized Service Provider): 
  1. Go Here: Find Locations - Apple Authorized Reseller
  2. Click: Service & Support
  3. Enter: your location information
  4. See: if there is an AASP nearby
  5. Contact: an AASP that shows up, and find out more about the services that they offer to fix the Mac
2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 25, 2025 3:17 AM in response to Krushal_956

"keyboard malfunctioning: Macbook Pro M2 (13 inch ) The built-in keyboard is permanently acting as if the Shift key is pressed. When I press any number key (1,2,3), the output is the corresponding symbol (!,@,#) instead of the number itself. Critical Troubleshooting Status: Stuck at Login: I cannot log in because I cannot enter the numbers in my password. Software Eliminated: I have tried pressing the Shift key five times (Sticky Keys toggle) multiple times, but the issue persists.The problem is still present when booting the Mac into macOS Recovery Mode (under the "Options" gear icon)."

-------


Mac Keyboard Stalled:


A. External Keyboard:

Plug in an external keyboard, and see if you can get around this. For your device, you'll need this adapter: USB-C to USB Adapter - Apple. Have none? Ask someone else if you may use their's with them at your side while you do so.


B. Boot in Safe Mode:

Start up your Mac in safe mode - Apple Support

In Safe Mode, damaged system files are performed, and temporary files(caches) can be cleared.


C. Cleaning the Keyboard:

Any debris below the key? If so, that may be causing and up-press, restoring it from going up or down. Air canister is what to user here.


D. Remove Keyboard Covers:

Are you using a keyboard dover? If so, stop using it, as it causes condensation from underneath the keyboard.


E. Reinstall the macOS:

Nothing would be lost. It's just that misplaced items would be placed back to where they should be and corrupt system files would be replaced by clean files. Go Here: Reinstall macOS - Apple Support. Use the third bulleted method: [command + r].  Important: Prior to installing an update or performing a reinstallation, to prevent data loss, be sure to Back up your Mac with Time Machine.


F. Getting this Serviced:

  • Apple Store:

Set up a Genius Bar Appointment at your local Apple Store. There, it will be looked at and you'll be provided with your options.

  • An AASP(Apple Authorized Service Provider): 
  1. Go Here: Find Locations - Apple Authorized Reseller
  2. Click: Service & Support
  3. Enter: your location information
  4. See: if there is an AASP nearby
  5. Contact: an AASP that shows up, and find out more about the services that they offer to fix the Mac

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MacBook Pro M2 keyboard acting as if Shift key is pressed, preventing login

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