Phones & tablets
Phone or tablet not charging: what to check first
A charging problem does not automatically mean that the battery or port needs replacing. Start with a few observations, then describe the symptoms clearly before agreeing a repair.
Start with the condition of the device
If the device has recently been wet, is unusually hot, looks swollen or has visible damage around the battery, stop using and charging it. Do not try a collection of chargers to see whether one forces it to start. Tell the repairer what happened before arranging a handover.
Check the accessories, without forcing anything
On a dry, undamaged device, check the power socket and try a known-good compatible cable and adapter. Do not use damaged leads or push a connector that does not fit. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your exact model rather than copying a button sequence intended for another device.
Record what you actually see
Does the display show a charging symbol? Does the device vibrate, ring or start briefly? Does charging stop when the cable moves? Write down when the problem began and whether it followed a drop, update or spill. These observations are more useful than a guessed diagnosis such as “the motherboard is dead”.
A percentage limit may be intentional
On supported iPhones, charging settings and battery-management features can limit or delay charging. A phone stopping at a familiar percentage is different from a device that never detects the cable. Check the relevant settings and Apple’s guidance before assuming a hardware failure.
When to ask for an assessment
If a suitable cable and adapter do not resolve the problem, contact Local Tech Man with the make, model, symptoms and your area. We discuss possible next steps; a photo can show damage, but internal faults may require inspection. Do not include passwords or unlock codes in the enquiry.
Before agreeing work
If the device still works safely, make a backup. Explain if photos or other files are your priority, and ask whether the proposed work could affect them. Prices, parts and availability are confirmed after the issue is reviewed. Water-damage and complex motherboard diagnostics have a separate agreed charge; the service page explains this before you decide.
General information to help you describe a fault, not a remote diagnosis. Follow your device manufacturer’s instructions and stop if equipment is unsafe.