Summary
This document applies to Intel-based MacBook Pro computers dated 2019, and probably those a few years before or after that date. It may also apply to other models. These instructions describe how to disable the auto-start feature that causes the computer to turn on and boot up when the lid / display is opened. Some systems may do the reverse of this and startup when the lid is closed.
STEP #1 — Terminal Command
Go to Applications > Utilities, and click on Terminal to launch the Terminal window.
In the Terminal window enter this command:
sudo nvram AutoBoot=%00
After typing in that command, press Enter (or the Return key).
You may be asked for your login password for the computer. Type it and press enter.
This should be sufficient to fix the issue, but you may find the problem isn’t solved by only using that command. To save time, type the following command and press Enter:
sudo nvram AutoBoot=%03
Then, again type the command you entered the first time:
sudo nvram AutoBoot=%00
For some reason, it helps to switch the nvram setting off, on, and off again.
STEP #2 — Test
Turn off your computer and then closing and opening your computer lid a few times at a slow pace to make sure the new setting works.
STEP #3 — Power Settings
If you research this issue online, you’ll find the Terminal command suggestion. However, the above steps may not work without also making a change to the power settings. These instructions work with macOS Monterey and should work with other versions of macOS.
Go to System Preferences > Battery > Power Adapter.
Remove all checkmarks for the settings and set “Turn display off after” as Never.
STEP #4 — Start Over
If you want to reset the NVRAM modifications, you can press and hold command + option + p + r while starting the computer.
When you start the computer while holding down the command key, option key, with the p and r held down, it resets the NVRAM.
FURTHER READING
Additional information and resources will be added to this page as they become available.
NOTE: The above steps have been performed on a MacBook Pro 13-Inch 2019, but did not resolve the problem. The system will be taken into the shop for diagnostics and repair as needed. The results will be posted to this page.
