Bose SoundLink Charging Problem

The Bose SoundLink series of wireless Bluetooth speakers are popular choices among audio enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. However, many users face issues when the Bose speaker does not charge properly. There could be several reasons why your Bose SoundLink won't charge.

Read on as we dive deep into the various Bose SoundLink charging problems and how to get your portable speaker charging correctly again.

Common Bose SoundLink Charging Problems

Here are some of the most common charging issues faced by Bose SoundLink users:

Faulty Power Source

The first thing to check is whether the power source itself is working fine. The issue could simply be a faulty power outlet or loose wall socket that is preventing the charger from receiving adequate power.

• Try connecting the Bose SoundLink charger to different power outlets in your home to isolate the issue.
• Also check for loose plug points and switch to another socket if the current one is faulty.

Poor Charger Connection

A loose charger connection is often the reason why your Bose SoundLink portable speaker is not charging.

• Inspect the micro USB charging port on the speaker for any debris or dust build-up.
• Firmly plug the charging cable into the port to ensure it is properly connected.
• Also check the wall adapter end of the charging cable. Disconnect and reconnect it to verify if the cable is loosely plugged in.

Completely Drained Battery

If you have not charged your Bose SoundLink speaker for a long time, the battery may have drained completely.

• When the battery level drops below a certain threshold, the speaker may not turn on at all, even when you plug in the charger.
• In such cases, leave the speaker connected to the charging cable for a few hours before attempting to switch it on. This allows the battery to receive some minimum charge.
• Try holding down the power button for a few seconds to force start the device if it refuses to turn on.

Faulty Charging Cable

Fraying, cuts or loose connections in the USB charging cable can interrupt the power supply to your Bose SoundLink speaker while charging.

• Carefully examine the charging cable for any visible damages. Look for fraying, cuts, kinks that may be affecting connectivity.
• Try replacing the factory provided USB cable with a different micro USB cable to determine if the issue lies with the cable. Use a high-quality third party cable for best results.
• Wiggling the cable ends while the speaker is charging will reveal if there is a poor connection due to a loose port or worn-out cable.

Charging Port Accumulated Dirt

Although not very common, the charging port of the Bose SoundLink can gather dirt, lint and debris with time.

• Use a toothpick or soft-bristled brush to gently clean out the micro USB port.
• Check that no foreign particles are obstructing or hindering proper insertion of the charging cable.

Advanced Troubleshooting Tips

For experienced users trying to troubleshoot persistent Bose SoundLink charging problems that still remain unresolved, try these advanced fixes:

Reset the Speaker

Resetting the Bose SoundLink speaker clears out any software errors that may be preventing normal charging function.

Press and hold the power button and Bluetooth button simultaneously for 10 seconds until the speaker restarts. This hard resets and reboots the speaker. Then reconnect the charger to check if the reset resolved the charging issues.

Update Firmware

Installing the latest firmware updates for your Bose SoundLink ensures compatibility with charging cables and power sources. Software updates include bug fixes that rectify charging errors faced by users.

1. Download the Bose Connect app on your smartphone paired with the speaker. Alternatively, use the Bose Updater application on Windows/macOS.
2. Connect your SoundLink via Bluetooth and check for firmware update notifications.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions and install available firmware upgrades. Your speaker’s charging capability improves after updating.

Try an Alternative Charger

Sometimes, the original Bose SoundLink charger may turn faulty over time. Before replacing the speaker itself, attempt charging with an alternative charger.

• Use a compatible high quality micro USB charger from another device that supports 5V/1A output.
• Try charging from a portable power bank with USB out.
• This determines whether the fault lies with the original Bose charging unit or something else.

Get the Port Professionally Cleaned

If debris cleaning and resetting the speaker does not work, it’s best to get professional help. The charging port may need proper inspection and cleaning internally that is hard to perform without disassembling the speaker.

• Visit a certified repair technician and have the charging port examined in detail and scrubbed thoroughly.
• Small parts like the metallic charger pins inside the port may need replacement if corroded or damaged.
• Professional cleaning or repair could fix SoundLink charging problems stemming from inside port issues.

Battery Replacement

In some cases, the Li-ion rechargeable battery fitted inside Bose SoundLink speakers can turn faulty or start losing charging capacity over time.

While the battery itself is not user replaceable, you can contact Bose support and check feasible replacement options if you suspect this issue. Getting a fresh battery replacement from Bose authorized service personnel may be needed if all other troubleshooting tips fail.

Reaching out to Bose product support technicians directly for battery replacement or advanced repair services is recommended if DIY fixes do not yield results.

FAQs - Bose SoundLink Charging

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions related to Bose SoundLink charging problems:

Q1. Why does my Bose SoundLink charge and then stop charging intermittently?

This could happen if the charging pins inside the port are corroded or loose contact. Get the port professionally inspected and cleaned. The charger cable pins may also need replacement if worn out.

Q2. How to check if Bose SoundLink battery needs replacement?

If other troubleshooting does not improve charging, monitor battery performance. Charge fully and track how long complete battery drain takes on normal usage. If operating time reduces to half of original duration, consider replacing battery.

Q3. Bose SoundLink shows red light while charging?

Solid red light when connected to charger indicates very low battery level. Allow SoundLink to charge undisturbed for 8-10 hours minimum before first usage to ensure complete charging.

Q4. Why does my Bose SoundLink keep showing white light blinking while charging?

Blinking white light signifies a charging error. Start troubleshooting - check power source, change cables, clean port thoroughly, perform resets and firmware upgrades. Persistent blinking white light will need advanced repair.

Q5. Can I replace Bose SoundLink charging port myself?

It is not recommended. The charging port is soldered internally on the PCB. Unless you have professional soldering and electronics repair experience, it is best to get port replacement done by authorized Bose technicians only.

Q6. Where to find replacement Bose SoundLink charging cable?

You can contact Bose support directly to buy replacement micro USB charging cable available for your specific SoundLink model. High quality third party cables with adequate power delivery also work.

Q7. Why does my Bose SoundLink make beeping noise when charging?

Beeping noise or blips when charging indicates potential issue - usually a faulty power connection. Check wall socket, cable, port for damage. Clean port thoroughly with air blower. Persistent beeping will require professional electronic troubleshooting of internal charging components.

Q8. How long can Bose SoundLink play music once fully charged?

Battery life depends on model, volume levels used and type of content played. On a full charge, the Bose SoundLink Mini can play for about 10 hours at moderate volume levels. The SoundLink Micro plays up to 6 hours, while larger models like the SoundLink Revolve+ last for up to 16 hours on a single full charge. Battery performance reduces over time after a few years of usage.

Q9. Does Bose SoundLink charging time reduce with age?

Yes, as the integrated lithium-ion battery starts wearing out after couple of years of repeated recharging, the total charging time duration increases slightly when the speaker ages. This is normal behavior in modern rechargeable batteries.

Newer Bose SoundLink models with beefier batteries may take 2-3 hours for full charge, while older models can take up to 5 hours. If you notice the charging time duration drastically increasing all of a sudden, it likely indicates a battery replacement is needed.

Q10. What voltage/ampere rating charger does Bose SoundLink need?

All Bose SoundLink models need a 5V, 1A USB charger for effective charging. Using a charger with rating higher than 5V/1A risks damaging the speaker internally. Lower voltage chargers take longer charging time. For best performance use Bose supplied wall charger only.