Cant quit kernel_task on MacBook Air Ventura 13.2

If kernel_task is using a large percentage of your Mac CPU - Apple Support

One thing I did notice is that the battery needs to be replaced, and it has to be plugged in all the time. Could this cause the kernel_task issue?

Yes.

kernel_task IS the core of the operating system, so of course you can't quit it.

Sounds like you have HW issue - a bad battery at the minimum that you know about. Take it to an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider if you want it tested for repair. However, for a 2019 MBA, you are better off replacing it with a new Mac.

OP wrote " We have a 2019 MacBook Air Intel with Ventura 13.2. "

User byline " MacBook Air, macOS 15.5 "

Can you help us " square " this huge difference in versions os macOS ?

If what I suspect and correct me if I am incorrect

macOS 15.5 RC Sequoia , as of this writing Monday May11, 2025 @07:09 hrs EDT , still in Beta Testing

" Yes, the beta software is Apple confidential information. Don’t install the beta software on any systems you don’t directly control or that you share with others. Don’t blog, post screenshots, tweet, or publicly post information about the beta software, and don’t discuss the beta software with or demonstrate it to others who are not in the Apple Beta Software Program. If Apple has publicly disclosed technical information about the beta software, it is no longer considered confidential. "

" Always back up your iPhone, iPad or Mac before installing the beta. Since Apple TV, HomePod mini, and HomePod (2nd generation) data and purchases are stored in the cloud, there’s no need to back up your devices. To use a previously-released version of iOS, iPadOS, or macOS, you can restore your device from the backup that you created before installing the beta. Please note Apple Watch cannot be restored to previously-released OS versions once the beta is installed. "

If kernel_task is using a large percentage of your Mac CPU - Apple Support

@BobHarris

The links seems DOA ?

😎