How to Fix a Lithium Battery That Won’t Charge: A Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide

If you're facing issues with your lithium battery not charging or your device not fully charging, you’re not alone. Many people encounter this problem, whether it’s with their phone, laptop, or even an electric bike. The good news is that there are multiple reasons why this happens, and most of them can be fixed easily without needing to replace the battery.

In this article, we'll walk you through the causes behind a lithium battery not charging and provide actionable steps to help you resolve the issue. Whether you’re a tech-savvy professional or a casual user, our troubleshooting guide will equip you with the tools to get your battery working again.

Why is My Lithium Battery Not Charging?

There are several reasons why your lithium battery might not be charging. Identifying the root cause is essential for troubleshooting and resolving the issue effectively. Here are some common reasons for a lithium battery not charging or not charging fully:

1. Charger or Cable Issues

A faulty charger or charging cable is often the first suspect when your lithium battery won't charge. Over time, charging cables can fray, or the charger may stop working due to electrical faults. Ensure you are using the correct charger for your device and that the cable is in good condition.

Let’s say your phone’s battery won’t charge when connected to your regular charger. But when you plug it into your laptop or use a different charger, it works fine. This indicates that the issue is with the charger, not the battery.

2. Battery Management System (BMS) Failure

The Battery Management System (BMS) regulates the charging process by controlling voltage, current, and temperature. If the BMS is malfunctioning, it could prevent the battery from charging altogether. This issue can arise from overcharging, damage, or aging components. A lithium battery not fully charging could be a sign of BMS failure.

For example, you may notice that your electric bike battery suddenly stopped charging after an overcharge or extreme discharge. This could indicate a BMS malfunction.

3. Overheating or Temperature Extremes

Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to temperature. If the battery is too hot or too cold, it may not charge properly. Extreme temperatures cause internal resistance, and this can interfere with charging efficiency, sometimes preventing charging altogether. In cold weather, if your phone’s battery isn't charging, it could be because the temperature is too low for the lithium-ion battery to function properly. So if you’re experiencing a lithium battery not charging, check if your device is overheating or if the battery has been exposed to low temperatures.

4. Battery Age and Wear

Every lithium-ion battery has a limited number of charge cycles. Over time, batteries lose their ability to hold a charge, which could lead to a lithium battery not fully charging. If the battery is several years old or has been used extensively, it may be nearing the end of its useful life.

5. Corroded or Dirty Contacts

Corrosion or dirt on the battery terminals can disrupt the flow of electricity, causing your lithium-ion battery to not charge properly. This is a common issue and can often be solved by cleaning the contacts.

How to Fix a Lithium Battery Not Charging

Check Your Charging Cable and Adapter

Start with the simplest solution — inspect your charging cable and power adapter. Try using a different charger, if possible, to rule out a defective charger or cable. Make sure the charger matches your device’s power requirements.

What to do:

• Try using a different charger and cable to see if the issue persists.
• Check for visible damage to the charging cable, such as fraying or exposed wires.
• Test your charger with another device to ensure it’s working properly.

Perform a Battery Reset

If your lithium battery won’t charge, try resetting the battery. Remove the battery from the device and leave it out for 5-10 minutes. Then, place it back in the device and attempt charging again. This can sometimes “reset” the battery and resolve minor issues that may be preventing it from charging.

Clean the Charging Port and Contacts

Sometimes dirt, dust, or lint can accumulate in the charging port, preventing proper contact between the charging cable and the battery.

What to do:

• Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean the charging port.
• Inspect the charging port for any visible damage or corrosion.

Boost the Battery with a Power Supply

If the battery voltage is too low (below 2.5V), it may be too weak to charge properly. In this case, you can use a power supply to provide a small boost to the battery. Set the current to a low level (around 50mA) and charge for 10-15 minutes before trying again with your regular charger. If it’s too low, your battery might need to be replaced.

Inspect the Battery Management System (BMS)

If you suspect that the Battery Management System (BMS) is at fault, it may require professional repair. A BMS failure often requires specific diagnostic tools and expertise to fix. If the BMS is damaged, it may need replacement to allow the battery to charge properly again.

Charge the Battery in a Warm Environment

Remember that lithium batteries charge best at room temperature (typically between 20°C to 25°C). If the battery is too hot or too cold, it may not charge properly. If your lithium battery is not charging because it’s too cold, try bringing it to a room-temperature environment. Charging in very cold conditions can interfere with the battery’s ability to accept a charge. Avoid charging in direct sunlight or in a freezing environment.

How to Tell If a Lithium Battery is Dead

If your lithium battery isn’t charging, it may simply be dead. Here’s how to check:

1. Check the Voltage

Use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. If the voltage is below 2.5V, the battery is likely dead and cannot be revived through normal charging.

2. Look for Physical Signs of Damage

Examine the battery for any signs of swelling, leakage, or damage to the terminals. These are indicators that the battery is no longer safe to use and should be disposed of properly.

3. Monitor Device Behavior

If your device shows signs of no charge or rapidly discharges even when charged, this is a strong indicator that the battery has reached the end of its life.

For more details, read our article: How to Tell If a Lithium-ion Battery is Bad?

When to Replace the Lithium Battery

If your lithium battery is not charging or not holding a charge, it might be time for a replacement. Here are some signs that indicate it’s time for a replacement:

• Short Battery Life: If your battery can’t hold a charge at all or only holds a very small charge, it might be time to replace it.
• Overheating: A battery that overheats during use or charging may be damaged and unsafe to use.
• Swollen Battery: A swollen battery is a dangerous sign of internal damage. If you notice any swelling, discontinue use immediately and replace the battery.
• Repeated Charging Failures: If you have tried all troubleshooting steps and the battery still won’t charge, the issue could be with the battery itself, not the charger or device.

Lithium Battery Maintenance Tips

Taking good care of your lithium-ion battery can prevent charging issues and extend its life. Here are some tips for proper lithium battery maintenance:

• Avoid Full Discharge: Never fully discharge your lithium battery to 0%. Instead, try to keep it between 20% and 80% for optimal lifespan.
• Store at Room Temperature: Avoid storing your lithium battery in extreme heat or cold. Room temperature (around 20-25°C) is ideal.
• Use the Right Charger: Always use the recommended charger for your device to ensure proper charging.
• Charge Regularly: Even if you’re not using your device often, charge the battery every few weeks to prevent it from dying completely.

Final Thoughts

A lithium battery not charging can be a result of several issues, from faulty chargers to internal battery problems. Fortunately, there are troubleshooting steps you can take to get your battery working again, including cleaning the contacts, using a different charger, or even boosting the battery with a power supply. However, if your lithium battery won’t charge despite your efforts, it may be time to replace it. 

As a leading lithium battery manufacturer, ACE Battery is committed to providing premium, durable solutions for various devices, from smartphones to electric vehicles. If you’re considering a replacement or upgrading your device’s battery, consider choosing ACE lithium battery for a superior product that ensures better performance, longer lifespan, and peace of mind.