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How to Fix a JBL Tune 230NC Case That Isn't Charging

Items Needed

  • Known-Good USB-C Cable
  • Functional USB Power Adapter (Wall Charger)
  • Soft, Dry Brush or Compressed Air
  • Cotton Swab
  • Isopropyl Alcohol (Optional)

Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Verify the Power Source: Ensure the power outlet is working. Plug the USB adapter into a different outlet. It is crucial to use a wall adapter, not a laptop USB port, for reliable power.
  2. Test with a Different Cable and Adapter: This is the most common point of failure. Use a USB-C cable and power adapter that you have confirmed are working by charging another device.
  3. Clean the Case's Charging Port: Dust and lint can easily get lodged in the USB-C port. Look inside the port and use a can of compressed air or a soft, dry brush to gently clean it out. Do not use metal objects like paperclips.
  4. Clean the Internal Charging Contacts: Open the case and inspect the small metal pins that make contact with the earbuds. They can become dirty, preventing a proper connection. Use a dry cotton swab to wipe them clean. For stubborn grime, lightly dampen the swab with isopropyl alcohol and allow it to dry completely.
  5. Check the Earbuds and Seating: Sometimes, if the earbuds themselves are not seated correctly or their contacts are dirty, the case's charging logic can get confused. Remove the earbuds, clean their gold-plated contacts with a dry cloth, and place them back in the case, ensuring they click into place.
  6. Leave it on the Charger: If the case's battery is completely depleted, it might not show any LED activity right away. Connect it to a confirmed working charger and leave it for at least 2-3 hours.
  7. Reset the Earbuds and Case: A software glitch can sometimes be the cause. Place both earbuds in the charging case and keep the lid open. Press and hold the button on the back of the case for about 5 seconds. The case LEDs should flash to indicate the reset is complete. Try charging the case again.

Charging Case FAQs

Why are there no lights on my JBL case when I plug it in?

This usually indicates no power is reaching the case. The most likely causes are a faulty charging cable, a dead power adapter, or a dirty/damaged charging port on the case itself. Follow the guide steps to rule these out.

My earbuds are charging, but the case itself won't charge. What's the problem?

This specifically points to an issue with the case's ability to receive power. The problem is almost certainly with the external USB-C port, the charging cable, the power adapter, or the case's internal battery.

Can I use a wireless charger for the Tune 230NC case?

No, the standard JBL Tune 230NC charging case does not support Qi wireless charging. It can only be charged using a USB-C cable.

The case is charging, but one or both of my earbuds won't charge. What should I do?

This problem is about the power transfer from the case to the earbuds. The issue lies with the charging contacts. Carefully clean the metal contacts on the non-charging earbud and the corresponding pins inside the case.

What do the lights on the charging case mean?

The LEDs on the front of the case indicate its battery level when you open it. When plugged in, they will light up to show the charging status. If they do not light up at all when plugged in, it's a sign of a charging problem.

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