Intel and Apple-chip MacBooks were both introduced in 2020. This guide covers the Intel 13-inch Retina Air and the Intel 13-inch Pro with either two or four Thunderbolt 3 ports. A purchase year is not a model identity: check About This Mac or Apple's official lists for MacBook Air and MacBook Pro.
In this guide
Why the exact version matters
- 13-inch Retina Air, 2020, Intel
- 13-inch Pro, 2020, two Thunderbolt 3 ports
- 13-inch Pro, 2020, four Thunderbolt 3 ports
The two 2020 Intel 13-inch Pro versions look similar, but the two-port and four-port configurations should not be treated as the same platform. The 2020 Retina Air is different again. A compatible part requires the full model name, serial number or model identifier, not just “2020 MacBook.”
Before testing: when to stop
If the battery is swollen, the screen is lifting, one area becomes unusually hot or there are signs of liquid, do not charge or keep trying to power on. Turn the device off if you can do so safely and arrange an inspection. Do not press a lifted screen or touch loose glass.
Safe power and startup checks
Try a working outlet and compatible USB-C cable and adapter, disconnect accessories, then hold Power/Touch ID for about 10 seconds before pressing it normally. Apple states that an SMC reset is for Intel Macs only; use the sequence for the identified model. Stop testing if there is an odour, concentrated heat, a swollen battery or evidence of liquid.
How we separate the symptoms
- Charging: test the adapter, cable, each USB-C port, battery and power circuit.
- Display: distinguish a backlight or panel fault from a Mac that is not starting; an external monitor is a clue, not a verdict.
- Keyboard and trackpad: record affected keys and whether liquid or pressure came first.
- Heat: check the fan, dust, sensors and software load before deciding the board is at fault.
- Apple Diagnostics starts with D on Intel; a reference code helps, but no code does not rule out hardware damage.
See Apple's Diagnostics instructions for the official startup steps.
Liquid and data: use the right order
After a spill, shut down, unplug and do not use rice, heat or repeated power attempts. If the files matter, say so before any erase or reinstall. Back up first only when the Mac is safe and stable enough to use. On a no-power device, recovery depends on the actual condition of the board and storage; there is no universal SSD upgrade or swap promise for these models.
Diagnosis and options in Bucharest
Bring the charger when the symptom concerns power, and note what happened immediately before the fault. Start by sending the model and problem on WhatsApp using the button below. Inspection and any further tests help identify the cause. We confirm the part option, price and timing before you approve the repair. NEXX GSM is an independent workshop, not an Apple Authorized Service Provider. Workshop details: MacBook repair in Bucharest.
Still having the problem?
Tell us the model and what you have tried. We will continue from the issue in this guide.
A draft opens for you to complete before sending. Do not send passwords or device passcodes.
Repairs in Bucharest, Sector 4 · Calea Șerban Vodă 43. Cost and timing are confirmed after inspection, before repair.
FAQ3
Does an SMC reset apply to every 2020 MacBook?
No. It applies to the Intel models. The M1 MacBook Air and 13-inch MacBook Pro have no manual SMC reset.
Can a keyboard or display be ordered from the year alone?
No. The full model name and usually the serial number or model identifier are needed to confirm compatibility.
Should macOS be reinstalled first when the files matter?
No. Startup, storage and backup or recovery options should be assessed before erasing or reinstalling.