Symptoms
- No charging indicator when phone is placed on the pad
- Charging starts and stops repeatedly
- Charges only in one exact spot on the pad
- Works with one phone but not another
Likely causes
- CommonPhone case is too thick or has metal in itMost wireless chargers can't transmit power through thick cases, metal, or certain PopSockets.
- CommonPhone not centered over the charging coilWireless charging coils are small, so being off by even half an inch can stop charging.
- PossibleCharging pad's power adapter is underpoweredWireless charging typically needs a higher-wattage adapter than a basic phone charger.
- PossiblePhone's wireless charging is disabled in settingsSome phones let you turn Qi charging off, especially in battery-saving modes.
- Less commonCharging coil or cable inside the pad has failedPhysical damage or age can break the pad itself.
What to do
- Remove any case, especially one with metal, a credit card, or a thick wallet attachment, and try again.
- Center the phone directly over the middle of the pad, adjusting slightly if it doesn't start.
- Confirm the wall adapter powering the pad meets its recommended wattage, not just any USB adapter.
- Check phone settings to make sure wireless charging or battery saver isn't disabling it.
- Test a different phone on the same pad, and the same phone on a different pad, to isolate the cause.
- If it still won't charge on any phone, the pad's internal coil or circuit has likely failed.
Tools and parts
- None required
Wireless charging padSearch: “Qi wireless charger”
Higher-wattage USB adapterSearch: “fast charge wall adapter for wireless charger”
When to call a pro
No repair path for a failed charging coil; replace the pad if testing on multiple phones rules out the phone.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.