Why does my MacBook Pro M1 reboot when bumped?

NickyMooUK wrote:

Hello all.

I'm wondering if you can help me.

I have a MacBook Pro M1 14" which I understand doesn't have any moving parts. I always treat it with care as I have with all of my old devices. I have noticed several times that when it is 'bumped' it will restart and do a reboot.

This can be if I get up and then put it down on the table or on a chair. It'll stop responding then reboot a few seconds later.

Do you know if this is usual? I've seen people really chuck their computers around and I've never done that but with no moving parts (no spinning drives, etc.) I'd have expected it to be able to cope with being put down.

Seems odd...

you run the user Diagnostic...not as definitive as Apple's own AST2 (Apple Service Toolkit) back bench diagnostic, but may kick out an error code.

Use Apple Diagnostics to test your Mac

Use Apple Diagnostics to test your Mac - Apple Support

In or out of warranty you can get a free over the counter 'Apple Service Diagnostics' test /assessment

Make an appointment for a "hardware issue"

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Outside the USA

Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support

Check your coverage

My Support - Official Apple Support

I think you should take your computer to a very special place where technicians put their hands on these computers all day every day.

That place is an Apple store.

You appointment for an evaluation at an Apple-owned store is free, but an appointment is required.

NickyMooUK wrote:

Thanks. I did the Diagnostic and it didn't return any errors.

It would be hard to register a bump issue.

I would recommend over the counter to demonstrate the issue— let Apple figure it out.

My story:

I ran the diagnostics and got an error code, and had printouts with supporting information.

At the store, I handed the computer to the technicians and tried to explain that I had error codes. They ignored the error codes for the moment.

They powered the computer up, watched, listened. Then suddenly turned the running computer upside down over their head and placed the keyboard next to their ear.

"You have a bad fan."

¿what was that error code?

oh, that says the fan is not working right as well.

There is nothing better than experienced technicians to hone in on such problems.