Frequent keyboard glitches on Chromebook 315- Backspace, caps lock and letter keys unresponsive

Acer Chromebook 315. When I type fast my computer will do the following- go to the login screen, where I will have to reenter my computer password. Another issue- my caps will not unlock, it wont go to lowercase, or it wont get off lowercase an go to uppercase, unless I shut my laptop an reopen it. another issue- when I make a mistake in spelling, and want to use the backspace, it won't go back an erase a letter, until I shut my laptop an reopen it, then backspace works. another issue- at times when I hit the c v a s l t keys I think it mainly is, then I have to shut my laptop an reopen it also to continue with anything. This all happens daily, constantly as I'm on my computer. It's driving me nuts. any help is very appreciated, thank you.

Accepted answers

Sharanji

@annannann

If your Chromebook is experiencing multiple keyboard-related issues, its likely due to a hardware malfunction such as a faulty keyboard or internal connection or a software glitch. Here are some troubleshooting steps to try.

A Powerwash will reset your Chromebook to factory settings, which may resolve software-related issues. This will erase local files, so back up any important data to Google Drive or an external storage device first. Press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R. Select Restart. Choose Powerwash > Continue.
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your Chromebook again.

If the issue persists, check for Hardware Issues. Look for debris, stuck keys, or physical damage. Gently clean the keyboard with compressed air. Connect a USB or Bluetooth keyboard and see if the issues persist. If the external keyboard works fine, your built-in keyboard may be faulty.

Disable Keyboard Shortcuts if causing login screen issue. If fast typing triggers the login screen, a keyboard shortcut (like Search + L) might be activating the lock screen. Go to Settings > Device > Keyboard. Check and modify any suspicious shortcuts.

Update Chrome OS. Ensure your Chromebook is running the latest OS version. Click the time (bottom-right) > Settings (gear icon). Go to About Chrome OS > Check for updates. Install any available updates and restart.

Enable/Disable Accessibility Features. Some accessibility settings (like sticky keys) may interfere. Go to Settings > Advanced > Accessibility. Disable features like Sticky Keys or Auto-repeat.

Perform a Keyboard Diagnostic Test. Chromebooks have a built-in keyboard tester. Press Ctrl + Alt + ? to open the keyboard overlay. Click the "..." menu > Diagnostics > Keyboard Test. Press each key to see if they register correctly.

If the issue continues after all troubleshooting, the keyboard may be physically damaged. Since the problem persists even after reboots, you may need a Keyboard replacement, if under warranty, contact Acer or contact a professional repair if out of warranty.

If you need an immediate fix, try using an external keyboard or Chrome Remote Desktop from another device until the issue is resolved.

Diya1811

@annannann

A good first step is to perform a hard reset by holding Refresh + Power for about 10 seconds. This restarts your Chromebook without losing data and might fix temporary glitches.

Check for stuck keys by gently cleaning the keyboard using compressed air or a soft brush. Dust or debris under the keys can sometimes cause them to stick.

If the issue persists, try a Powerwash to reset the Chromebook to factory settings. Go to Settings → Advanced → Reset Settings and select Powerwash, but back up important files first.

Testing with an external keyboard can help determine if the issue is hardware-related. If a USB keyboard works fine, the built-in keyboard may need repair or replacement.

Ensure your Chromebook is running the latest Chrome OS update by going to Settings → About Chrome OS → Check for updates. Updates often include fixes for keyboard problems.

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