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meghana199
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

MacBook Air M5 has persistent odor from USB-C ports and stiff screen hinge

Hello everyone,

I purchased a MacBook Air M5 in June, and since then, I have noticed a distinct odor emanating from the USB-C ports and the charging slot. My initial research suggested this smell would dissipate within two to three months. However, after waiting, the odor persists. Additionally, I have encountered an issue with the MacBook screen's hinge mechanism. When opening the screen, it feels stiff and momentarily catches before fully extending. Similarly, upon closing, while there is no initial gap, a slight touch causes it to reopen to the aforementioned "catch" angle, requiring me to gently push it down to fully close it. I have already contacted Apple Support, who indicated that this could be a hardware issue. I am wondering if anyone else has experienced similar problems.

Posted on Sep 17, 2026 7:41 AM

4 replies

Smilin-Brian
User level: Level 10 (97,882 points)

Sep 25, 2026 11:12 PM in response to meghana199

Welcome and thank you for reaching out. 🤗


When there appears to be a problem with the Mac, only a certified Apple technician can determine the cause and offer a complete solution.


Therefore, I recommend service.


Service Checklist:


Service Appointment:


Contact Support:


Additional Support:


Good luck! 👋🏼😉

Smiliñ 😎 Brian | Community Volunteer

steve626
User level: Level 7 (20,243 points)

Sep 26, 2026 7:43 PM in response to meghana199

Bring it in for service as soon as possible while it is still under warranty.

HWTech
User level: Level 9 (78,350 points)

Sep 17, 2026 9:05 AM in response to meghana199

Definitely sounds like it may be a hardware issue. These newer Apple laptops have a very tight tolerance around the hinge area (not much more than the thickness of one to three sheets of paper). It is possible the Display has become slightly skewed which can definitely cause the behavior described. Have Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider examine the laptop to see if there may be any minor damage and to see whether a realigning of the Display Assembly is sufficient to address the problem (whether from minor accidental damage or just a small alignment issue from the factory).

meghana199 Author
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

Sep 25, 2026 2:05 AM in response to HWTech

Thank you

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256359008