certain keys wont work on my laptop

Question

i own a surface laptop and for some reason my l and k keys as well as the number keys wont work.
they randomly stopped working and i tried turning on and off my computer to no avail
what should i do?

edit: nvm, was just debris. got it to work :)

Answer 1

Try these steps in order to narrow down and fix the issue on the Surface Laptop keyboard:

1. Check for debris or physical issues
   • Carefully inspect the affected keys (L, K, number row) for dust, crumbs, or other debris.
   • Use a can of compressed air to blow between and under the keys.
   • Wipe the keyboard surface with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
     Intermittent or grouped key failures are often caused by debris or physical damage.
2. Test with an external keyboard
   • Connect a USB or Bluetooth keyboard.
   • If the external keyboard works normally, the built‑in keyboard is likely having a hardware issue.
   • If the same keys fail on the external keyboard, the problem is likely software/driver related.
3. Check keyboard accessibility settings (Sticky/Filter/Toggle Keys)
   • In Windows 11: go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard (under Interaction).
   • In Windows 10: go to Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard.
   • Turn off Sticky Keys, Filter Keys, and any other features that might change how keystrokes are handled, then test the keys again.
4. Update Surface and Windows
   • Open the Surface app (or install it from Microsoft Store if missing).
   • In the Surface app, expand Help & support and select Check for updates to open Windows Update and install all available updates.
   • After updates install, restart the Surface Laptop and test the keyboard.
5. Force a restart of the device
   If a normal restart didn’t help, perform a forced restart:
   • Select Start > Power > Shut down and wait for it to fully power off.
   • Then press and hold the power button for about 20 seconds, keeping it held even if the logo appears, until the logo appears again.
   • Let it boot and test the keys.
6. Determine if it is likely hardware failure
   • If keys still do not respond after cleaning, testing with an external keyboard, checking accessibility settings, updating, and forcing a restart, the built‑in keyboard is likely experiencing a hardware failure.
   • In that case, a service order or repair for the Surface Laptop keyboard will be required.

Avoid disassembling the laptop or removing individual keys, as that can cause further damage and may affect warranty coverage.

---

References:

• Troubleshoot Surface Pro Keyboard or Type Cover
• Mouse and keyboard problems in Windows
• Troubleshoot problems with your Surface mouse or keyboard
• Surface won’t turn on or start