Apple Diagnostics, the built-in Apple Care Checking Tool, helps identify hardware problems on your Mac. Formerly known as Apple Hardware Test, this tool thoroughly examines your system and provides solutions or directs you to Apple Support for further assistance. This guide will walk you through using this essential tool.
macOS Diagnostics progress bar indicates the test is running.
Preparing Your Mac for Diagnostics
Before running the Apple care checking tool, ensure your Mac is properly prepared:
- Update macOS: Install the latest macOS updates if possible. This ensures the diagnostic tool has the most current information.
- Shut Down: Completely shut down your Mac before proceeding.
- Disconnect Peripherals: Disconnect all external devices except for the essential ones: keyboard, mouse, display, Ethernet connection (if needed), and power adapter.
- Stable Surface: Place your Mac on a hard, flat, and stable surface with good ventilation to prevent overheating during the diagnostic process.
Launching Apple Diagnostics: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process for launching the Apple care checking tool varies slightly depending on your Mac’s processor:
Apple Silicon Macs
- Power Button: Press and hold the power button until startup options appear. On Macs with Touch ID, this is the Touch ID button.
- Options: Release the power button when you see the “Options” screen.
- Command-D: Press and hold Command (⌘) and D keys simultaneously.
Intel-based Macs
- Power On and D Key: Turn on your Mac and immediately press and hold the D key.
- Release D Key: Release the D key when you see a progress bar or language selection prompt.
- Alternative: Option-D: If the D key doesn’t work, try pressing and holding Option (⌥) and D keys at startup.
Understanding Your Results with the Apple Care Checking Tool
After the Apple care checking tool completes, you’ll see a progress bar like this:
Progress bar shows Apple Diagnostics is running
Then, it displays results with reference codes:
Apple diagnostic results indicating no issues found
- Reference Codes: Note down any reference codes provided. These codes correspond to specific hardware issues. You can find a list of Apple Diagnostics reference codes on Apple’s support website.
- Repeat Test (Command-R): Click “Run the test again” or press Command-R to repeat the diagnostic process.
- Restart (R): Click “Restart” or press R to restart your Mac normally.
- Shut Down (S): Click “Shut Down” or press S to power off your Mac.
- Support (Command-G): Click “Get started” or press Command-G to access online support resources from Apple.
Decoding Apple Diagnostics Reference Codes
Each reference code generated by the Apple care checking tool points to a specific hardware component or potential issue. Consult Apple’s official documentation for a comprehensive list of these codes and their meanings. Understanding these codes will help you troubleshoot your Mac effectively.
This comprehensive guide to using the Apple care checking tool—Apple Diagnostics—will empower you to take the first step in troubleshooting your Mac’s hardware. Remember to always consult Apple’s official support documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
