MacBook Won't Load OS.. Sometimes

[donaldctu]

MacBook Pro Mid-2012

Client was having an issue where MacBook would lock up on the start up progress bar. They could power on/off a few times and it would eventually load OS.

On top of that, they said it was running hot and it would crash from the overheating. He is using this laptop for music recording/production so it's getting a workout.

Used TechTools to test hardware. Found no issue.

Re-Installed OS from scratch and did some testing. Wasn't able to replicate the issue in the shop after the re-install.

Returned computer to client and he said 2 days later he runs into the same issue.

Brings it back to the shop and sure enough I can replicate these same issues again.

Feels like I haven't done much, but I'm also not sure what else to do.

What programs do you use to test hardware issues on Macs?

TechTools has worked wonderfully for awhile for us, but it's not giving me anything to work with in this case.

 

[Krynn72]

I use Parted Magic, but its hit or miss on macs, sometimes it fails to load.

In your case, I'd just swap the HDD and see how it behaves. Sounds like HDD problems to me, and you can't fully trust SMART tests (which is what I assume TechTools does).
Also, I'm not sure, but this model may have issues with the SATA cable for the HDD, another thing to swap and see. I know there was one model which had frequent cable problems, but can't remember which.

 

[Markverhyden]

You can also boot into Apple's hardware test. Power up holding down the D key. When the machine came back I'd have swapped out the drive for an SSD and then test.

 

[TECCS]

If he says it's running hot have you checked the fans etc for dust and dirt. Had issues like that where fine on my well ventilated desk and they have it surounded by stuff with no ventilation and it struggles with the heat.

don't want to offend with the simple stuff.

 

[cyabro]

That model also has the hdd flex cable replacement program running from Apple, so the owner should get that replaced at no cost by Apple, or an aasp.