MacBook Pro: fixing Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues

A connection that drops, a Bluetooth device that can't be found, abnormally slow speeds: the troubleshooting method before suspecting the antenna or logic board.

MacBook Pro: fixing Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues

The most common symptoms

Unavailable service, pairing failures, intermittent disconnections, slow data transfers, or weak signal are the main signs of a connectivity issue, usually linked to interference, an incorrect system setting, a software problem, or hardware damage (antenna, liquid damage).

First checks

Inspect the device for signs of moisture, restart the Mac, check that the date and time are set correctly, turn Wi-Fi and Bluetooth off and back on from System Settings, move closer to the router to test the signal, and re-pair Bluetooth devices while keeping their limited range in mind. A macOS update, if an internet connection is available, sometimes fixes the problem too.

If the problem persists

The next steps involve testing in diagnostic mode, running Apple's diagnostic suite, then an internal inspection of the antenna cables — with, as a last resort, replacing the antenna/vent module or the logic board.