What Causes a Laptop or MacBook Not to Charge?

by Cillian Byrne

What Causes a Laptop or MacBook Not to Charge?

In this article, we will discuss some of the most common causes of laptop and MacBooks not charging, including faulty power adapters, worn-out batteries, loose connections, and more. We will also provide tips on how to troubleshoot these issues so that you can get your device running again as soon as possible.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fix a Laptop or MacBook That Won't Charge 

  1. Check if you’re actually plugged in. It sounds silly, but oftentimes the most obvious thing is the solution. ensure that the charger is firmly seated in both the wall outlet and the charging port. Similarly, check the AC adapter brick and verify that any removable cords are fully inserted.

    Troubleshoot the cable for issues. Check for breaks, tears, bends. Similarly the power brick can be at fault. If there’s any sign of burning do not use it again and replace. 
  2. If the power jack is loose or wobbly it’s time to go to a professional shop. This will, most likely, require soldering and it’s best to engage with someone who is experienced. A faulty power jack can prevent a laptop battery from maintaining a proper charge.
  3. Sometimes, the battery is at fault, and should be removed to further troubleshoot. Remove the battery, hold the power button down for several moments. Then connect to a power source and see if the laptop turns on. If you have a macbook you can restart the SMC, or factory reset your mac. If your macbook has a non-removable battery, and is out of warranty, it’s best to see an Apple authorized Independent Repair Provider, like Phone Fix Craft, and we can assist with genuine apple parts. 
  4. Make sure you’re using the right charger and port. USB-C is a popular cross-platform standard for connecting peripherals, transferring data, and charging your battery. The new standard allows for thinner devices, but might also cause some confusion. Some manufacturers have opted to make certain USB-C ports data-only, so they won't charge your device.  

    PCMag says that ‘in some cases, you may find a device with two USB-C ports: one that can be used for charging or data transfer, and one that is only designated for data transfer. If you run into a non-charging issue, make sure you are connected to the correct USB-C port.’ Apple users aren’t immune to the USB-C - both macbooks and ipad pros use USB-C charging. A recent rumour suggests that apple is killing lightning ports and adopting USB-C from 2025 on HYPERLINK https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/apple-killing-usb-c-lightning-everywhere/
  5. If your charging port appears damaged, it is important to act quickly and take the necessary steps to repair or replace it. There are a few different options available depending on the severity of the damage. The most common solutions are to clean the port, use a charging adapter, or replace the port entirely. It is important to understand how each option works and which one is best for you before making a decision. Cleaning the port may be enough if there is only minor damage, while more severe damage may require replacing the entire charging port. Using a charging adapter can also help if your device has trouble connecting with its original charger. Knowing what to do when your charging port appears damaged can help you get back up and running quickly without any further issues.

Do You Need Professional Help for More Complex Issues?

If the above doesn’t work it is time to call the professionals. Phone Fix Craft deals daily with charging and battery related issues and we are in the best position to advise. 

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