JBL Headphones Not Charging [FIX THE ISSUE NOW!]

Are your JBL headphones not charging, and are your attempts to use them fruitless? Several reasons could be causing the headphones not to hold a charge. This article will highlight the most common issues with JBL headphones not charging and provide user-recommended solutions to get the device up and running again.

Why Are My JBL Headphones Not Charging?

In most cases, the power source error is caused by the following issues:

• Dust and debris on the charging ports
• A faulty charger or adapter
• Software or hardware issues
• Dead battery
• Damaged USB port
• Loose connector cable

What to Do if Your JBL Headphones Won’t Charge

Some of these fixes are easier than others, so we recommend seeking professional assistance for any repairs if you’re uncomfortable handling tools or soldering wires.

1) Clean the Charging Ports

Take the following steps to ensure the charging ports are clean and free from debris:

• Use plastic or wood toothpicks to remove any debris clogging the ports (be careful not to scratch the charging contacts too much)
• Use a wet microfiber cloth to clean the ports gently
• Wait until the contacts are completely dry to attempt charging the headphones

2) Check the Charging Cable and Power Source

You may need a replacement charging cable or a fast adaptive charger for this fix. Beware that third-party cables may not work properly.

• Inspect the charging cable for any visible signs of breakage or wear (contact JBL for a replacement if they’re broken)
• Check whether the cable is properly connected to both the headphones and the power source
• If possible, use a different charging cable that’s compatible with your JBL headphones (a fast adaptive charger with an output of 5V 2A or 9V 1.67A works)
• Use a different power source; try charging your headphones using a laptop or a wall adapter to eliminate the possibility of a faulty power source

2.1) Repair the MicroUSB Charging Port

For this step, you’ll need a replacement microUSB port, a small screwdriver set, a soldering kit, a pocket knife, and a plastic pry tool.

• Power off the JBL headphones
• Remove the earpad with the micro-USB port for convenience
• Put the pocket knife right between the earpad and the plastic to pry out the cover
• Use the pocket knife to pry open the back plastic cover (that has a JBL logo) from the top
• Use the screwdriver to remove the lip screw from the plastic cup
• Remove the cover carefully not to damage the wiring
• Carefully pry out the PCB using a plastic pry tool
• Detach the strip so that you can extend the wiring and get a better look at the backside
• Unsolder the microUSB port and solder back the new one
• Replace the covers and try charging the headphones again

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3) Check the Battery Status

If your headphones are not turning on, they may have a dead battery.

• Connect your headphones to a power source for at least 15 minutes to check if they start charging
• If your headphones are only holding the charge for a short amount of time, the battery may be damaged and in need of replacement

3.1) Replace the Battery

The process takes about 10 minutes and only requires a replacement battery, small pliers, a plastic pry tool, a soldering kit, super glue, and a pocket knife, although a big kitchen knife would also suffice.

• Use the steps above to remove the right headphone’s cover (labeled R)
• Check the battery’s serial number, as you’ll use it to order the replacement
• Remove the batteries using the pliers and unplug (or unsolder) the connector
• Take your new battery (make sure that it comes with the charging controller) and fix it in place
• Glue the battery right back into position
• Plug the connector (or solder back the wires) in the right direction
• Put the cover back on (make sure to align the JBL logo upright) and press it gently until it clicks into position
• Put the earpad back on
• Press the power button for a few seconds to see if the new battery works

4) Reconnect the Lead Connector Piece

Sometimes, the lead wires connecting your battery to the headphones often become loose or broken. For this fix, you might need a soldering kit.

• Use the steps above to open the right (R) headphone cover
• If the connector came loose, just plug it back in
• If the wires are broken or loose, solder them back on
• Put back the cover and power the headphones on

NOTE: Be careful when prying open the headphones to avoid touching any wires or metal as this could cause a short, damaging circuit, cables, and even the battery.

5) Charge for an Extended Period

The appropriate way to use JBL headphones is to charge them when they have 15-20% battery life left. Unfortunately, many people wait until the battery is completely drained to start charging.

If you’re in this predicament, here’s a viable solution:

• Connect the JBL headphones to a power source
• Watch the charging indicator to see whether the light is on (a completely drained battery might take longer to start charging)
• Let the headphones charge for several hours uninterrupted

6) Factory Reset Your Headphones

In some cases, a software issue can prevent the headphones from charging. Try resetting your headphones to factory settings.

• Disconnect your headphones from any audio sources (on the other device, go to Settings > Privacy > Health > Headphone audio levels > Toggle off both options)
• Turn off the headphones (press the power button or toggle off the on switch)
• If your headphones use batteries, remove them
• If your headphones are rechargeable, unplug them from the power source
• Press and hold the power button for about 30 seconds (this will reset the internal circuitry of the headphones)

• Replace the batteries or plug in the power cord and turn on the headphones
• Check whether the headphones are now charging

NOTE: The reset process may vary depending on your JBL headphones model, so check your user manual or JBL’s website for specific instructions.

7) Disconnect and Reconnect the Charger Several Times

Sometimes, the headphone drains battery charge too far, causing the Li-ion battery to refuse to charge.

• Connect the headphones to the charger
• Plug the charger into a power source
• Disconnect the USB cable from the charger
• Reconnect it again (if it doesn’t start to charge, repeat the above steps several times)

8) Install Firmware Updates

Check for any firmware updates and install them if they’re available.

• Visit JBL’s website
• Check whether there’s a firmware update for the model of headphones you have
• Download and install the updates
• Check whether the headphones are charging

NOTE: If you still have issues charging the headphones after updating the software, visit an authorized service center near you or contact JBL, as it might be a hardware problem.

9) Contact JBL Support

If none of the above steps fix the problem, your headphones may have a hardware issue. Contact JBL support for a repair or replacement.

• Go to the JBL support page
• Ask whether your warranty is still valid
• Provide your serial number and other requested information (such as your name and address) so that they can check your warranty
• Wait for further troubleshooting steps (if applicable) or arrange for a repair or replacement if necessary