There could be several reasons why the scroll bar is not working on your Mac. In order to troubleshoot and fix the issue, let’s go through some possible causes and solutions.
1. Scroll bar settings: The first thing to check is the scroll bar settings on your Mac. Click on the Apple menu at the top-left of the screen and select “System Preferences.” Then, click on “General.” Make sure that the “Always” option is selected under the “Show scroll bars” section. If it is set to “Automatic” or “When scrolling,” try changing it to “Always” and see if the scroll bar appears.
2. Application-specific issue: Sometimes, the scroll bar might not appear in certain applications. This could be due to the application’s settings or compatibility issues. Try opening a different application and see if the scroll bar works there. If it does, then the issue is likely specific to the problematic application. In such cases, check the application’s preferences or settings to ensure that the scroll bar is enabled.
3. Software updates: Ensure that your Mac is running the latest version of macOS. Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues, including problems with the scroll bar. To check for updates, click on the Apple menu and select “Software Update.” If any updates are available, install them and restart your Mac to see if the scroll bar starts working.
4. Restart the computer: Restarting your Mac can often resolve minor software glitches or conflicts that may be causing the scroll bar to malfunction. Click on the Apple menu and select “Restart.” Once your Mac restarts, check if the scroll bar is now working.
5. Reset NVRAM/PRAM: Resetting the NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) or PRAM (parameter random-access memory) can sometimes help resolve hardware-related issues. To reset the NVRAM/PRAM, shut down your Mac and then turn it on. Immediately press and hold the Option + Command + P + R keys until you hear the startup sound for the second time. Release the keys, and your Mac will start up. Check if the scroll bar is functioning correctly now.
6. Check for physical issues: If none of the above solutions work, there might be a physical problem with your Mac’s trackpad or mouse. Ensure that the trackpad or mouse is clean and free from any debris that may hinder its functionality. If you’re using an external mouse, try disconnecting and reconnecting it, or try using a different mouse to see if the scroll bar works.
If the issue persists after trying these troubleshooting steps, it may be best to reach out to Apple support or visit an Apple Store for further assistance. They can provide more specific guidance based on your Mac model and software configuration.