Can't move or resize windows

[n1acguy]

This is a Mid 2009 Macbook pro.
I can't move or resize windows in any program.
I suspect the trackpad is the issue, but is there any software lock that may have gotten inadvertently activated?
The trackpad seems to work otherwise. I am able to scroll normally, just can't resize or move a window.

Any help is appreciated.

Alex

 

[pm-r]

What OS X version are you running??

Have you tried shutting down and booting up using Safe Boot Mode????

Then see if the problem still exists.

"Starting up in safe mode

Follow these steps to start up into safe mode.
Start or restart your Mac.
Immediately after you hear the startup sound, press and hold the Shift key.
Release the Shift key when you see the Apple logo appear on the screen.
After the Apple logo appears, it might take longer than usual to reach the login screen or your desktop. This is because your Mac performs a directory check of your startup disk as part of safe mode.
To leave safe mode, restart your computer without pressing any keys during startup. "

 

[pigoo3]

Try an external input device (mouse, trackpad, rollerball).

- Nick

 

[n1acguy]

I figured it out. It seems some accessibility options got changed with the upgrade to El Capitan. I sure didn't intentionally change them.
My trackpad has been hard working. I removed the battery and it's back to normal. The battery has a membrane over the part that is against the trackpad and it seems a bit swollen. Although the battery seems to work OK, it may be on it's way out.

 

[pm-r]

Thanks for the feedback and your fix info.

 

[n1acguy]

Well, I got it to work once or twice. When I tried using safe mode as suggested, I couldn't make a selection to log in.
Testing a little more I can't drag or drop anything with the trackpad. An external mouse works OK.
There are some chips on the connector to the trackpad, and they were stuck to the base of the trackpad when I tried to ensure the connector was making good contact.
I suspect the battery overheated and affected this connector mounted against it.
Unless a replacement trackpad includes this connector, I might have a situation where one thing has led to another.
Anyone know of a way I can determine if the failure is limited to the trackpad itself?

 

[MacInWin]

Swollen battery will push against the trackpad. It's time to replace it. Can't help with the trackpad, sorry.

 

[pigoo3]

An external mouse works OK.

This is one of the reasons I suggested using/testing with an external input device earlier.

Agree with MacInWin. A swollen battery can put pressure on the trackpad making it operate erratically. Got to replace the battery to restore proper trackpad function. Hopefully the trackpad has not been damaged.

- Nick

 

[n1acguy]

As a follow up, I was able to remove and clean the trackpad. works good now. It seems some adhesive is on the connecting ribbon cable by design and it wasn't damaged by battery heat as I first thought.
Battery ordered.