TL;DR
To fix MacBook battery indicator stuck at 1%:
- Restart your MacBook.
- Update macOS.
- Reset the SMC.
Tried and Tested ✅: The methods and steps mentioned in this article have been tried and tested firsthand by Ojash Yadav on his MacBook Pro M3 and rechecked for errors on Hashir’s MacBook Air M2.
At first, a stuck battery indicator might seem like a small glitch – until it keeps happening. When your MacBook shows 1% even after charging, it’s frustrating and leaves you uncertain. This guide offers a few quick fixes to get your battery indicator back to normal.
4 Fixes for the MacBook Battery Indicator Stuck at 1%
Why You Can Trust MacBook Journal 
We always conduct first-hand research and verify every method or solution we present, ensuring you receive reliable and effective advice. Learn more about our process.
Let’s explore each fix in detail to resolve the battery issue:
1. Restart Your MacBook
Restarting your MacBook can often fix minor software issues, resulting in the correct battery percentage displayed in the menu bar. To restart your Mac, follow these steps:
- Click the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen.
- Select Restart from the drop-down menu.
- Click Restart on the prompt, and your Mac will instantly restart.
2. Update macOS to the Latest Version
Updating macOS can fix software bugs that may impact battery display accuracy. Here’s how to update macOS on your Mac:
Ensure your system is compatible with the new version before updating your macOS. You can find this information on the Apple website or consult our macOS compatibility checker.
- Before installing updates, back up your Mac data to avoid losing important files.
- Click the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings.
- Click General and select Software Update.
- If an update is available, click Update Now.
- Enter your Mac’s password and click OK.
- Wait for the download to complete. The download time depends on the update size and internet connection speed.
- Once the download is complete, the installation process will start automatically.
- Follow the prompts on the screen to complete the installation process.
- After the installation, it’ll prompt you to restart your computer. Click the Restart button to complete the process.
3. Reset the System Management Controller (SMC)
Resetting the SMC helps restore proper communication between your Mac’s hardware and battery. Follow the instructions to reset the SMC below based on your Mac model:
MacBooks with Non-Removable Batteries
- Remove your MacBook’s battery.
- Press and hold the Power button for 5 seconds while the battery is removed.
- Release the Power button and reinstall the battery.
- Turn on your Mac by pressing the Power button.
MacBooks with Removable Batteries
- Tap the Apple icon and select Shut Down from the drop-down menu.
- Press and hold the Shift ⇧ + Control ^ + Option ⌥ keys with the power button for 10 seconds.
- Release all the keys and press the power button to turn on your MacBook.
4. Visit the Apple Service Center
If the issue persists, visit an Apple service center for diagnostics and potential repair. Schedule an appointment, describe the problem to the technician, and they’ll assess if repair or replacement is needed. Warranty or AppleCare coverage may reduce repair costs.
Sometimes, uninstalling recently installed apps or clearing the cache can solve the battery stuck issue. It worked for me after a macOS update.
Battery Replacement (Last Resort)
If your Mac’s battery is severely deteriorated and other fixes haven’t worked, battery replacement may be necessary. DIY replacement is an option, but visiting an Apple Store or professional repair service is generally safer to avoid complications.
Check the Battery Cycle Count on Your Mac
By checking the battery cycle count on your Mac, you can gain valuable information about the overall condition of your battery. If the number of battery cycles is high, it may be the reason behind your MacBook battery indicator permanently at 1%. Here’s how to check your battery’s cycle count:
- Click the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen and select About This Mac from the dropdown menu.
- Click More Info.
- In the new window, select the System Report… button.
- Choose Hardware in the sidebar of the System Information window and select Power in the Hardware section.
- Look for Cycle Count under the Battery Information section.
The maximum battery cycle count varies for each MacBook model. You can find your battery’s maximum cycle count on Apple’s Support page.
Final Thoughts
Battery health is a crucial factor in your MacBook’s performance. Now that you know how to fix the battery indicator stuck at 1% issue, here are some more tips for you:
- Fixing the MacBook battery not charging issue can also help extend your Mac’s battery life.
- Checking for any problems with USB ports might be a useful step if you’re facing charging issues.
- By fixing battery issues, you can resolve related problems, like Mac shutting down randomly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the normal cycle count for a MacBook battery?
Most modern MacBook batteries are designed to retain up to 80% of their original capacity after around 1000 charge cycles.
