Troubleshooting the Option Key and Boot Selection on MacBook Air A1370

If the Option key is not working on your MacBook Air A1370 to select a bootable drive, and you are unable to reset NVRAM or enter recovery mode, here are some steps you can try to troubleshoot the issue:

GUIDE STEP BY STEP:

1. Check Keyboard Hardware:

   • Ensure the Option key isn't physically damaged or stuck. Try using an external keyboard to rule out hardware issues with the built-in keyboard.

2. Reset NVRAM:

   • Attempt to reset the NVRAM again by shutting down your MacBook Air, then turning it on and immediately pressing and holding the Option, Command, P, and R keys for about 20 seconds. Release the keys after you hear the startup sound for a second time or when the Apple logo appears and disappears for the second time.

3. Use Startup Manager:

   • If the Option key itself is functioning but not bringing up the boot menu, try using the built-in Startup Manager. Shut down your MacBook Air, turn it on, and immediately press and hold the Option key until the Startup Manager appears.

4. Recovery Mode:

   • To enter Recovery Mode, restart your MacBook Air and hold down Command + R until the Apple logo appears.

5. SMC Reset:

   • If the above steps don't work, try resetting the System Management Controller (SMC). For the MacBook Air A1370, you'll need to shut down the computer, plug in the power adapter, hold Shift + Control + Option on the left side of the built-in keyboard, then press the power button at the same time. Hold these keys and the power button for 10 seconds, then release and turn on the computer with the power button.

6. Check for macOS Issues:

   • If you suspect the issue is software-related, boot into Safe Mode by holding down the Shift key during startup. This can help to determine if the problem is related to non-essential macOS components.

7. Disk Utility in Recovery Mode:

   • If you manage to get into Recovery Mode, use Disk Utility to check the startup disk for any errors that might be preventing boot selection.

8. Seek Professional Help:

   • If none of these steps resolve the issue, it may be best to seek professional assistance from an Apple Store or an authorized Apple service provider.

Please note that the inability to use the Option key to select a different boot source or to perform NVRAM and SMC resets could indicate a deeper hardware issue, particularly if the keyboard is not responding correctly. If you suspect this is the case, professional support will be necessary.