MacOS Sierra / kernel_task problem

App & System Services Core OS Beta macOS

i2_ OP

Created Jun ’16

Replies 78

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I installed Mac OS sierra yesterday night in my MacBook Air13" (4gb) I also use an external SSD (Samsung T3).

Today I could not do any task because of CPU and ram usages.

First, I thought this is because of new OS, but then I check activity monitor and saw kernel_task use around 50-70% percent of CPU.

I wonder, what it is and how I can fix this problem (I found some entries in the forum, but I am not sure this is the same problem or not).

Thank you.

Boost

abcde1234 OP

Sep ’20

Old thread, but seems to be the thread with most information about the dreaded kernel_task issue. I have been working with a 2010 MacBook 15" in High Sierra (which is the highest supported OS), updated with a SSD drive, and using an external monitor. I have tried all the other tips here (removing the relevant plist in ACPI_SMC_PlatformPlugin.kext, removing unneeded extra kexts files, and disabling "automatic graphics switching"), but with limited effect.

But three additional hacks made all of the difference for me:

Disabling Turbo Boost by using the utility "Turbo Boost Switcher Pro". With this, you can turn off Turbo Boost automatically when the fan speed is high.
In my Chrome-based browser (I am using Brave, but I suspect it will work in other Chrome-based browsers also): Preferences -> Additional settings -> System -> Disable "Use hardware acceleration when available" (and restart browser)
Raising my macbook a bit from the desk using a couple of pencils.

Now my 10 year old Mac is running smoothly again!

Ievgeny OP

Jul ’21

Seems like this is still relevant, I'm using MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019) with A1621 EMC 2877 type-c adapter. When I'm connecting second monitor through HDMI kernel_task starts to consume up to 2000% CPU and laptop becomes completely unresponsive. It doesn't matter which side type-c (left or right), I've tried 3 different A1621 tails so it doesn't seem like a certain tail issue. Please let me know if there is a way to fix it.

laptopche OP

Oct ’22

I had the same issue with the kernel_task starting to consume most of the CPU and laptop (MBP 16" 2019) becomes completely unresponsive. When I plug in monitor or the dedicated card was used within some browser. This seems to be a problem of heating too much, or more likely the fans can't keep up with the heat.

All was resolved with a simple cleaning of the fans.

The service was ~ 40min and after it, it is like new. I can connect external displays, do some demanding tasks and not get the fans to run at their max speed. So a simple cleaning of the fans will make your laptop like new and you will fall in love again with its snappiness.

With the condition the fans on my laptop were I was recommended this cleaning to be performed twice a year so it can function normally.