Dell Vostro 5401 – Built-in Keyboard Random Key Press Then Total Failure

Hello,

I am experiencing a persistent issue with the built-in keyboard on my Dell Vostro 5401, which I strongly believe is hardware-related.

Problem Description

Model: Dell Vostro 5401
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Operating System: Windows 10 Pro

On system startup, one of the keys (H, G,N,M,0,P or TAB) behaves as if it is being constantly pressed.

• When I press the Space bar, the repeated input stops

• However, after that point, none of the keys on the built-in keyboard work at all

• An external USB keyboard works without any issues

Important Observation

• When I completely disconnect and reconnect the internal keyboard ribbon cable:

  • On two separate occasions, the keyboard worked normally for a very short time right after boot

  • Then it immediately became non-functional again

Because of this behavior, I believe the issue is not software-related, but rather connected to the keyboard itself, the keyboard cable, the EC (Embedded Controller), or the motherboard keyboard circuit.

Troubleshooting Already Done (No Success)

• Updated all keyboard and chipset drivers

• Updated BIOS to the latest version

• Disconnected and reconnected the battery

• Disconnected and reconnected the internal keyboard cable

• Performed a clean Windows installation

None of these steps resolved the issue.

My Questions

• Is this a known issue with the Dell Vostro 5401 model?

• Is this problem typically resolved by replacing the keyboard, or is it more likely related to the motherboard / keyboard controller circuitry?

• Is there an official Dell diagnostic or recommended solution for this type of failure?

I would appreciate guidance from anyone who has experienced a similar issue or from Dell technical support.

Thank you in advance.