Acer Nitro 5 Q Key barely working. Do I need to replace the key? Can anyone help?

JynxWyd
JynxWyd Member Posts: 11

Tinkerer
edited June 9 in Nitro Gaming

The Q key on my acer nitro 5 only works every 1 out of 4 uses now for some reason. I haven't made any alterations to the laptop keyboard itself, and its been working perfectly up until now. It doesn't make any distinct noises or sounds when I click it and looks the same as every other key on my keyboard. Can anyone help? Do I need to replace the key? I've never tinkered with the key before and have been using it like normal as well.

[Edited the thread to add issue detail]

Answers

  • StevenGen
    StevenGen ACE Posts: 14,457 Trailblazer
    https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/725630/acer-nitro-5-q-key-barely-working

    Your Nitro 5 laptops Q key must be either stuck and full of dirt or its damaged and needs replacing. that I suggest that you buy that electronic circuitry cleaner spray and spay that around the Q key and push the key up and down to free the keys mechanics, as doing this will free the key and the dirt that is restricting its function, if all this doesn't work, then you need to change the key, so have a look at a place like Laptop Key replacements for the Nitro 5 keys, as they have allot of the exact model keyboard replacement keys for your Nitro 5 laptop.

    If you have a newer Nitro 5 model than the AN515-xx series then search the web for similar places in your neck of the woods, as there are allot of these key replacement retails around for the Acer Nitro model keyboards. After you get the new key, all you need to do is take the old damaged Q key out and all its mechanical parts and replace them with the new replacement key, its a very easy job. Good luck and hope this helps you out.

    If this answers your question and solved your query please "Click on Yes" or "Click on Like" if you find my answer useful👍

  • Puraw
    Puraw ACE, Member Posts: 17,244 Trailblazer
    https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/725630/acer-nitro-5-q-key-barely-working

    Alternatively, shut down the laptop and try to remove the dirt with a lengthwise split bamboo toothpick, wiggle the thinnest part under the key cap, avoid forcing the cap too much up as it will part from the hinge, toggle the Q key while wiggling the toothpick and blow some air with a PC rubber ball blower to remove dust. once a while boot to test the Q key, don't use a brush as hair may get trapped in the key hinge. A thin strong plastic strip may also work. If the key electrical contact is bad this won't work.

  • JynxWyd
    JynxWyd Member Posts: 11

    Tinkerer
    https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/comment/1343561#Comment_1343561

    Yes, this worked! A simple wooden toothpick did the job, took me literally 2 minutes lol. Thank you :)

  • Puraw
    Puraw ACE, Member Posts: 17,244 Trailblazer
    edited June 9
    https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/comment/1343571#Comment_1343571

    You are welcome, please mark my comment with "Yes, Answered" 😉

  • JynxWyd
    JynxWyd Member Posts: 11

    Tinkerer
    https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/comment/1343572#Comment_1343572

    So I ended up cleaning it with a toothpick, but then it started happening again shortly after. Additionally, the same thing that's happening to my Q key is happening to my windows key. I don't know if this is a mechanical or electrical issue, or if it's just simply dirt & dust trapped under the keys. Might have to opt for key replacement :(

  • Puraw
    Puraw ACE, Member Posts: 17,244 Trailblazer
    https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/comment/1343614#Comment_1343614

    Sorry to hear that, it can takes much effort to get rid of dirt trapped in the key hinge and you have to tap the key repeatedly during the cleaning, if no luck take the laptop to a repair shop to either replace the key or the keyboard, not an expensive repair.

  • Axxo
    Axxo Member, Ally Posts: 1,926

    It's possible the "Q" key on your Acer Nitro 5 is malfunctioning and needs replacement, but it's worth exploring some troubleshooting steps first. If cleaning and updating drivers doesn't resolve the issue, then key replacement may be necessary.

    Here's a more detailed breakdown:
    1. Cleaning and Troubleshooting:
    Clean the Keyboard:
    Dust, debris, or even small spills can interfere with key function. Use compressed air or a soft brush to remove any visible particles. A damp (not wet) cloth can be used to wipe the key and surrounding area.
    Update Keyboard Drivers:
    Outdated or faulty drivers can sometimes cause keyboard issues. You can update the keyboard driver through Device Manager (Windows + X, then click Device Manager, then expand Keyboard and update the driver).
    Restart Your Laptop:
    Sometimes a simple reboot can resolve minor glitches. Try turning off your laptop completely and then restarting.
    2. Potential Causes:
    Internal Wiring Issues:
    If the problem isn't with the key itself, there might be an issue with the internal wiring or connectors.
    Hardware Failure:
    If the key itself is physically damaged or worn out, it might need replacement.
    3. Key Replacement:
    Replace the Key:
    If the above steps don't fix the issue, you may need to replace the "Q" key. Replacement keys for Acer laptops are available online from specialized suppliers.
    Consider Professional Repair:
    If you're not comfortable with key replacement, consider taking your laptop to a certified Acer dealer or repair shop.
    4. Additional Tips:
    Test with an External Keyboard:
    If possible, try connecting an external USB keyboard to see if the issue persists. This can help determine if the problem is with the laptop's keyboard or something else.
    Check for Sticky Keys:
    Some accessibility features, like Sticky Keys, can sometimes make keys behave erratically. If it's enabled, try disabling it to see if that resolves the issue.

     -----------------------------------------

    If this answers your question and solved your query please "Click on Yes" or "Click on Like" if you find my answer useful.

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