Troubleshooting MacBook Black Screen With Folder Icon

If you’re experiencing a blinking folder icon on your MacBook screen, it can be a sign that your device cannot detect an operating system. Here’s a guide to troubleshooting the issue and potential solutions:

First Steps

Before attempting more complex solutions, try the following basic steps:

• Reset the System Management Controller
• Reset the PRAM or NVRAM
• Replace your hard drive cable

Causes

Data Corruption: Data corruption can occur during updates or power loss. This can affect the operating system detection.

Faulty Storage: Hard disk drives (HDDs) in older MacBooks are prone to failure due to their mechanical nature. Solid state drives (SSDs) in newer models can also fail.

Faulty LifeBoat Connector: In 2016-2017 MacBook Pros, a LifeBoat connector allows data recovery from failed devices. If this connector fails, data retrieval may be hindered.

Faulty Logic Board: The logic board is responsible for most MacBook functionality. If other solutions fail, a faulty logic board may be the cause.

Troubleshooting Solutions

Data Corruption

• Repair the file system using Disk Utility
• Restart using Internet Recovery
• Boot from a bootable USB installer
• Consider professional MacBook data recovery services

Faulty Storage

**HDD (Non-Retina MacBooks)**

• Replace the hard drive
• Consider a MacBook hard drive upgrade service

**SSD (Retina MacBooks)**

• Replace the SSD
• Use Internet Recovery to install macOS on a new SSD
• Consider using Salvation Repair for SSD repairs

Faulty LifeBoat Connector

Contact Salvation Repair or an authorized Apple repair center for assistance.

Faulty Logic Board

If all else fails, the logic board may be faulty. You can schedule a repair at https://salvationrepair.com/repair for a diagnosis and possible repair or replacement.

With these troubleshooting steps and potential solutions, you can address the MacBook black screen with folder icon issue effectively. Remember, Salvation Repair offers a limited lifetime guarantee on all parts and labor, so don’t hesitate to contact us for any repair needs.