macOS Bluetooth Keyboard Error Code 6000: How to Fix It
Easy 10-30 minutes Medium Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- 6000
- Brand
- macOS
- Product Type
- operating_system
- Severity
- Medium
- DIY Difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated Fix Time
- 10-30 minutes
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Tools You'll Need
- USB-C or Lightning cable (for charging Apple Magic Keyboard)
- Replacement AA or AAA batteries (if keyboard uses disposable batteries)
- USB wired mouse (recommended backup input device during Bluetooth reset)
- Time Machine drive or backup solution (before macOS updates)
How to Fix Error Code 6000
-
Check Keyboard Battery Level
-
Toggle Bluetooth Off and On
-
Put the Keyboard Into Pairing Mode
-
Remove and Re-Pair the Keyboard
-
Reset the Bluetooth Module on Your Mac
Resetting the Bluetooth module will temporarily disconnect ALL Bluetooth devices including your mouse. If you only have a Bluetooth mouse, connect a USB mouse first before performing this step. -
Delete Bluetooth Preference Files
Moving system preference files is safe, but keep them on your Desktop temporarily in case you need to restore them. Do not delete them permanently until you confirm the fix works. -
Update macOS to the Latest Version
Back up your Mac using Time Machine or another backup solution before installing a major macOS update. -
Test With a Different USB Port or Wired Connection
-
Create a New macOS User Account to Isolate the Issue
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When to Call a Professional
Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider if the keyboard still fails to pair after completing all steps above, if multiple Bluetooth devices are consistently dropping on your Mac (suggesting a failing internal Bluetooth antenna or logic board component), or if your Mac's Bluetooth option is completely grayed out in System Settings. A hardware-level Bluetooth failure inside the Mac requires professional diagnosis and repair that cannot be addressed through software troubleshooting alone.Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Mac Bluetooth keyboard keep disconnecting with error code 6000?
Error Code 6000 most commonly occurs due to corrupted Bluetooth pairing data, a low keyboard battery, interference from USB 3.0 devices, or a bug introduced by a macOS update. Start by replacing or recharging the battery, then try resetting the Mac's Bluetooth module and deleting the com.apple.Bluetooth.plist preference file to clear corrupted data.
Will resetting the Bluetooth module on my Mac delete all my paired devices?
Yes, resetting the Bluetooth module removes all existing Bluetooth device pairings from your Mac. You will need to re-pair your keyboard, mouse, AirPods, and any other Bluetooth accessories after the reset. This is why it is recommended to have a wired USB mouse available before performing the reset.
Does macOS error code 6000 mean my keyboard is broken?
Not necessarily. Error Code 6000 refers to a pairing or connection loss, which is almost always a software or configuration issue rather than a hardware failure. If your keyboard works fine when connected via a USB cable, the keyboard hardware is intact and the problem is on the Bluetooth software side, which can be fixed through the steps in this guide.
How do I put an Apple Magic Keyboard into pairing mode?
Slide the power switch on the back of the Magic Keyboard to the off position, wait about 3 seconds, then slide it back to the on position. The keyboard will automatically enter discoverable pairing mode. If it does not appear on your Mac, try turning Bluetooth off and back on in System Settings, then repeat the process.
Can a macOS update cause Bluetooth keyboard error code 6000?
Yes. Certain macOS updates have introduced Bluetooth stack regressions that cause previously paired keyboards to drop their connection and report pairing errors. Apple typically addresses these in subsequent point releases. Check System Settings > Software Update for any pending updates and install them, as this alone has resolved Bluetooth pairing issues for many users.