Gadget won't pair over Bluetooth to any device

Symptoms

• Device doesn't show up in the Bluetooth device list
• Pairing starts but then fails or times out
• Device pairs but immediately disconnects

Likely causes

• CommonDevice still paired to a previous phone or gadgetSome Bluetooth devices only allow one active connection and refuse new pairing until cleared.
• CommonBluetooth cache issue on the phone or computerA buggy Bluetooth stack can fail to detect nearby devices until restarted.
• CommonDevice not in pairing modeMost gadgets need a specific button press or hold to enter discoverable pairing mode.
• PossibleToo many saved pairings on the gadgetSome devices have a limited pairing memory and need old entries cleared.
• Less commonBluetooth hardware faultPhysical damage or age can degrade the Bluetooth radio itself.

What to do

1. Turn Bluetooth off and back on on the phone or computer you're pairing with.
2. Forget or remove the device from the Bluetooth list on all previously paired devices.
3. Put the gadget into pairing mode using its specific button combination from the manual.
4. Move the gadget and pairing device close together, within a few feet.
5. Restart both devices fully, not just toggle Bluetooth.
6. Reset the gadget to factory Bluetooth settings if it has that option.
7. Test pairing with a completely different device to isolate the problem.

When to call a pro

If a factory reset and testing with multiple devices still fails, the gadget's Bluetooth module has likely failed and it should be replaced.

Safety