MacBook Pro 2018 says it needs battery charging on start up while battery is charged >15%

Hello, I have a 2018 MacBook Pro and having some battery issues. When the MacBook is charged enough (at least 50%) and I want to use it after one or two days, it often shows the black screen with the battery sign, indicating I need to charge it before I can use it. When I insert my charging cable however, it often has a battery percentage of more than 15% left. Does anyone have any suggestion on how to fix this problem? I would like to use my MacBook normally when it has a 15% battery charge left.


I have the latest software update, although this problem has been there for more than a year now. I tried to reset the System Management Controller and this seemed to help for a short period of time, but after a few days the problem came back.


Thank you for thinking along!

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 13.7

Posted on Nov 19, 2025 12:12 AM

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3 replies

Nov 19, 2025 12:36 AM in response to stanvernimmen

"MacBook Pro 2018 says it needs battery charging on start up while battery is charged >15%: [...]When I insert my charging cable however, it often has a battery percentage of more than 15% left. Does anyone have any suggestion on how to fix this problem? I would like to use my MacBook normally when it has a 15% battery charge left.[...]"

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Troubleshoot the Mac's Power:

As for replacing that battery, that may not be necessary. So, try troubleshooting it.

 

A. Black Mac Screen:

Go Here: If your Mac doesn't Turn On or Start Up - Apple Support

Using External Devices: Try Resetting the SMC and NVRAM, but this time, using an external keyboard. Connect an external monitor and see if you get an output. This applies to Intel-Based Macs only.

 

B. Mac Power Issues:

Try a New Charger:

If it is currently charging from a charger, then use a new charger:

 

C. A Few Links to Refer to Power:

 

 

 

 

Nov 19, 2025 1:52 PM in response to stanvernimmen

Are you checking the battery charge level on the login screen? If so, that information is many times incorrect. To get the actual battery charge level, make sure to first log into macOS.


I have seen these USB-C Intel Macs behave this way all the time. I even saw it happen with a brand new Apple OEM battery from Apple. I suspect that on occasion the Logic Board loses communication with the Battery. When this happens, the power adapter needs to be connected before the laptop will start.


If this is the original factory battery, then perhaps this battery is beginning to show signs of failure.


Nov 19, 2025 12:35 AM in response to stanvernimmen

"MacBook Pro 2018 says it needs battery charging on start up while battery is charged >15%: [...]When I insert my charging cable however, it often has a battery percentage of more than 15% left. Does anyone have any suggestion on how to fix this problem? I would like to use my MacBook normally when it has a 15% battery charge left.[...]"

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Battery Issues on a 2018 Mac:


View the Battery Health:

On iOS13, Battery Health is now called Maximum Capacity. Once it reaches below 80%, Apple recommends you get a new battery.

  1. Go to: Settings
  2. Tap: Battery
  3. Click: entitled " " on the top-right corner
  4. View: Maximum Capacity

If below 80%, it is time for a new screen.


Where to get a new battery:

Take this in for a Genius Bar Appointment at your local Apple Store. Bring a proof pf purchase with you.

Contact Apple:


Or...


B. Contact an AASP: 

  1. Go Here: Find Locations - Apple Authorized Reseller
  2. Click: Service & Support
  3. Enter: your location information
  4. See: if there is an AASP nearby
  5. Contact: an AASP that shows up, and find out more about the services that they offer to fix the Mac

MacBook Pro 2018 says it needs battery charging on start up while battery is charged >15%

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