One AirPod not charging is usually caused by dirt in the charging contacts or case, or a faulty battery. Clean the contacts and reset the AirPods.
Common causes
- Dirty charging contacts on the AirPod or case.
- Case battery is low.
- Faulty battery.
- Software glitch.
- Damaged earbud.
Fixes
- Clean contacts with a dry cotton swab.
- Reset: hold the button on the case for 15 seconds.
- Update firmware.
- Charge the case.
Warranty
Apple Support can replace one AirPod for a fee.
Check
Use the Find My app.
Reasons for charging trouble
One AirPod may not charge because of dirty charging contacts, a case with a low battery, a firmware glitch, a failing battery or a damaged pod. Lint and earwax buildup on the metal contacts at the bottom of each earbud is the most common cause.
- Lithium-ion batteries in AirPods lose capacity after 300 to 500 charge cycles, and one earbud often drains faster because of different use.
- Apple says to charge the case for at least 30 minutes with the earbuds inside.
- Apple’s AirPods battery service fee has been 49 USD per AirPod outside warranty in recent years.
Fixes
Clean the contacts with a dry cotton swab or a soft brush and a bit of isopropyl alcohol, restart by placing both pods in the case, close the lid for 30 seconds, then hold the setup button for 15 seconds to reset. Check for firmware updates by keeping the AirPods connected to the iPhone. If charging still fails, contact Apple Support, since the one-year limited warranty or AppleCare+ may cover service.
Reasons for charging trouble
One AirPod may fail to charge because of dirt in the charging contacts, an unbalanced battery, case issues, firmware, or battery wear. Batteries degrade after a few hundred cycles.
Fixes
Clean contacts with a dry cotton swab, reset the AirPods by holding the setup button for 15 seconds, update firmware and charge the case. Apple offers battery service.
Battery and case behavior
AirPods contain tiny lithium ion batteries, with the case holding multiple charges. If one AirPod does not charge, the contact pin may have dirt, the AirPod may not seat properly, or the battery is worn. Apple states a battery can last 5 hours for listening on AirPods Pro. Over time capacity falls.
Reset steps
Clean contacts with a dry soft brush, reset by holding the setup button on the case for 15 seconds until light flashes amber then white, re pair, and update firmware. If still not charging, Apple offers service for about 49 USD per AirPod for battery replacement outside warranty (check current pricing).
Based on data from Apple Support
