MacBook Air M2 2022 won't turn on after crashing during backup

MacBook Air M2 (2022) – Won't Turn On After Crashing During a Time Machine Backup

Since your MacBook Air suddenly shut down during a Time Machine backup, the screen went black, and the MagSafe indicator went off at the same time, I would investigate the power and charging system first.

You have already confirmed that the electrical supply is working and attempted a 10-second power-button reset, so there is no need to repeat those checks unnecessarily.

Please try the following steps in order:

1. Disconnect all accessories

• Disconnect the MagSafe charger and all peripherals, including the Time Machine backup drive, USB hubs and external devices.

• Leave everything disconnected for approximately 60 seconds.

• Reconnect MagSafe and check whether its indicator illuminates.

2. Check the MagSafe connection

• Inspect the MagSafe connector and charging port for debris or damage.

• Make sure the connector is seated properly.

• Remember that amber indicates charging, green indicates a fully charged battery, and no light may indicate a charging or hardware problem.

• If possible, test with another compatible Apple power adapter and MagSafe cable.

Apple's guide: https://support.apple.com/en-us/102372

3. Try charging through USB-C

Your M2 MacBook Air can also charge through either USB-C/Thunderbolt port.

• Disconnect MagSafe.

• Connect a compatible USB-C Power Delivery charger.

• Leave it connected for 20–30 minutes.

• Try starting the Mac normally.

This helps determine whether the problem is isolated to MagSafe or involves the Mac's internal power system.

4. Try another power-button startup

• Disconnect unnecessary peripherals.

• Press and hold the Touch ID/power button for 10 seconds.

• Release it, wait a few seconds, then press and release it normally.

• Watch for any signs of activity, including the Apple logo, screen illumination or trackpad feedback.

5. Attempt macOS Recovery

• If the Mac shows signs of life:

• Make sure it is shut down.

• Press and continue holding the power button until 'Loading startup options' appears.

• Select Options, then Continue.

If Recovery loads, open Disk Utility and check the internal startup disk.

Do not erase or reformat the drive.

Apple's instructions:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/102518

6. If the Mac remains completely unresponsive

If neither MagSafe nor USB-C charging produces any response, the problem could involve the battery, charging circuitry, logic board or firmware.

At this stage, Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider should inspect the Mac.

A firmware Revive using another Mac may also be necessary. A Revive attempts to repair firmware without erasing data, whereas a Restore erases the Mac. Always request a Revive first.

Apple's instructions:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/108900

Important: Since the crash occurred during a Time Machine backup, avoid erasing, restoring or reinstalling macOS until the internal data and backup status have been assessed. Preserving your existing data should be the priority.

A few questions to help narrow this down:

1 When you reconnect MagSafe, does the indicator remain completely dark, or does it briefly illuminate and then go off?

2 Does the Mac show absolutely no signs of life, including trackpad feedback or screen illumination?

3 Have you tried charging through USB-C, or only through MagSafe?

Your answers will help determine whether this is a charging-related problem, a power-management failure or a more serious hardware or firmware issue.

Out for repair

mrokloricred37 wrote:

Out for repair

Ouch