Screen flickering and turning off on MacBook air

My screen has started to flicker and is now turning off. If I close the computer and then reopen it the screen comes back on temporarily. I have run the diagnostic options on start up and no issues. Can anyone please help?

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 15.5

Posted on Jun 26, 2025 01:11 AM

Reply
1 reply

Jun 26, 2025 06:43 AM in response to joro29GB

Hi,

Screen flickering and turning off on a MacBook Air can be caused by a variety of issues, from software glitches to hardware problems. A simple restart can often resolve minor software glitches. If the problem persists, updating macOS, checking for loose connections, or adjusting display settings (like disabling True Tone) may help. For more persistent issues, consider resetting the SMC, NVRAM, if your MacBook Air is intel base, or booting into Safe Mode to isolate potential software conflicts. If hardware issues are suspected, like a faulty display cable or screen, professional diagnosis and repair at an Apple Store or authorized service provider is recommended. 


Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. 1. Restart your MacBook:
  2. A basic restart can resolve temporary software glitches. 
  3. 2. Update macOS:
  4. Ensure your operating system is up to date, as updates can include bug fixes. 
  5. 3. Check Connections:
  6. Make sure all cables (especially those connecting to external displays) are securely plugged in. 
  7. 4. Adjust Display Settings:
    • True Tone: Try disabling True Tone in System Settings > Displays. 
    • Automatic Brightness: Disable automatic brightness adjustment. 
  1. 5. Reset SMC and NVRAM(If your MacBook Air has intel processor. If your MacBook Air is Apple Silicon base, just restart your MacBook Air.):
    • SMC (System Management Controller): Shut down your Mac, press and hold Shift-Control-Option, then press the power button. Release all keys simultaneously and turn your Mac on. 
    • NVRAM (Non-Volatile RAM): Shut down your Mac, turn it on, and immediately press and hold Command-Option-P-R for about 20 seconds. 
  1. 6. Boot into Safe Mode:
  2. Restart your Mac while holding down the Shift key. If the flickering disappears in Safe Mode, it suggests a software conflict. 
  3. 7. Check for Duplicate Color Profiles:
  4. In System Settings > Displays > Color, look for duplicate "Color LCD" profiles and delete one. 
  5. 8. Consider External Display:
  6. Connect an external monitor to see if the problem persists. If the external monitor works, the issue is likely with the MacBook's display. 
  7. 9. Hardware Issues:
  8. If the problem continues after trying these steps, it's likely a hardware issue (display cable, screen, etc.) and requires professional repair. 

When to Seek Professional Help:

  • If the screen flickering persists after trying the troubleshooting steps above.
  • If you suspect a hardware issue (e.g., damaged display cable, faulty screen).
  • If your MacBook is under warranty, contact Apple Support or an authorized service provider. 

By systematically working through these steps, you can often identify and resolve the cause of the flickering screen and get your MacBook Air back to normal. 


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Screen flickering and turning off on MacBook air

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