The Sony WH-1000XM3 are industry-leading wireless headphones renowned for their adaptive sound control, smart audio upscaling, and advanced noise-canceling features. These headphones provide up to 30 hours of playback time and have padded, pressure-relieving earcups for extra comfort when listening for extended periods.
Since the Sony WH-1000XM3 is a wireless headset, you must charge it for optimum performance. Fortunately, charging the rechargeable battery for only 10 minutes gives you 5 hours of playback time.
But like any other wireless headphones, your Sony WH-1000XM3 might stop charging unexpectedly even after following the correct steps. After all, they are susceptible to bugs and glitches like most smart devices.
This guide explores possible reasons your Sony WH-1000XM3 is not charging and how to fix them.
Key Takeaways
- Your Sony WH-1000XM3 might not charge because of outdated firmware. Ensure the headphones have the latest software version before proceeding with other troubleshooting tips.
- The Sony WH-1000XM3 can only charge using the supplied USB Type-C cable. Firmly connect the USB cable to the headphones and a compatible USB AC adapter to start charging.
- If charging the headset from a computer, ensure the PC is not in standby or hibernation mode. The computer might not release electric current while in sleep or standby mode.
- The Sony WH-1000XM3 might have problems charging on a Windows 8.1 computer because of driver issues. Ensure you update the operating system to Windows 10 or higher via Windows Update.
SONY WH-1000XM3 Not Charging – Troubleshooting Tutorial
Fixing Sony WH-1000XM3 Headphones That Won’t Charge
You don’t have to be tech-savvy to troubleshoot your Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones that won’t charge. Here are quick, proven tips you can use to fix your headset within no time:
Update the Firmware
The first step to fixing charging issues on a Sony WH-1000XM3 is updating the firmware. Sony wireless headphones have an operating system that runs most functions, including recharging the headset.
This firmware requires frequent updates to ensure smooth and seamless functionality. It improves the headphones’ general performance and enhances security features.
Here are the steps:
- Turn on your Sony WH-1000XM3.
- Pair the headphones with your mobile device.
- Download and install the Sony Headphones Connect app on your mobile device.
- Launch the Sony Headphones Connect app.
- Connect the headset to the app.
- Tap the menu button (three dots) in the upper right corner of the app.
- Select the version of your headphone.
- You’ll see “Headphone update available” at the bottom of the screen.
- Verify the firmware version and tap OK or Start to download data to your mobile device.
- The downloaded data will transfer to the headphones automatically once the download is complete.
- When the software update is complete, tap OK.
Updating SONY Bluetooth Headphones
Use the Supplied USB Type-C Cable
Your headphones might not charge because of using a third-party cable. Sony products, including headsets, are somewhat selective and may only work with proprietary accessories.
The Sony WH-1000XM3 uses a USB Type-C cable for charging. Ensure you use the supplied USB-C cord to charge your headphones and only purchase a genuine replacement from an authorized Sony dealer if you misplaced the cable that came with your headset.
Use a Compatible Charger
As with the charging cable, the Sony WH-1000XM3 may only work with a proprietary USB AC adapter. It should also work with third-party AC adapters, but not with all. A second-class charger might not charge the headphones properly. It might even damage the headset, making it unusable and voiding your warranty.
Ensure you only use the genuine (or at least compatible) USB AC adapter or charger. A third-party adapter might not deliver sufficient flow to boost your headphones properly. You can buy a genuine replacement from an accredited Sony dealer to avoid charging issues in the future.
Check Your Connections
Your Sony WH-1000XM3 might not charge because of loose or incomplete connections. The headset comes with a separate USB Type-C charging cable.
Ensure the cable is firmly in the headset’s charging port and the other end in the USB AC adapter. Plug the adapter securely into the correct AC outlet to ensure consistent current flow.
Also, inspect the cables for bends, cuts, or visible physical damage that might interfere with the charging process. If the charging cord or adapter is faulty, your headphones won’t charge. Switch any damaged accessories with genuine replacements and try again.
Check the Incoming Power Supply
If your Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones won’t charge, inspect your power sources for faults and defects. Start by checking the wall outlet or power extension for malfunctions. You can test the socket by plugging the AC adapter into a different outlet or extension to see if the previous one has issues.
Update Windows OS
The Sony WH-1000XM3 might have problems charging on a Windows 8.1 computer because of driver issues. Apparently, Windows 8.1 does not have native drivers for various wireless headsets.
You may have to install the missing drivers from third-party websites. However, the quickest way to solve this problem and avoid similar issues in the future is to update your computer’s operating system. Ensure you update the operating system to Windows 10 or higher via Windows Update.
Reset Your Sony WH-1000XM3
If you are still unsuccessful in charging your headset, consider performing a reset. Resetting the headphones to factory defaults can help fix minor bugs and glitches, causing your Sony WH-1000XM3 not to charge.
Follow these steps to reset your Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones:
- Turn off the headphones.
- Press and hold the Power and NC/Ambient buttons. Release the buttons when the blue indicator light flashes four times.
Hold the POWER and NC/AMBIENT buttons simultaneously for 7sec to factory-reset the headphones
- Your headphones are now reset to factory defaults.
Resetting WH-1000XM3 to Factory Default Settings
Replace the Battery
If you cannot charge your wireless headset even after following the correct steps, the battery could be the issue. Like all wireless headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM3 has a built-in rechargeable battery. However, this battery has a short lifespan, usually not exceeding three years.
A faulty battery can cause charging issues or even damage your headphones. The only solution is to purchase a genuine replacement. You can take the headphones to Sony for servicing if your warranty is valid.
SONY WH1000 Headphones Not Charging – Basic Troubleshooting and Battery Replacement
Contact Support
If everything fails, your headphones might have a technical issue requiring expert servicing. You can contact Sony to find out if your headset has glaring problems deserving of a recall.
Sony might offer to replace the headphones for free if you have a valid warranty certificate. Alternatively, you may have to replace the headphones with a better, upgraded version to experience new features and avoid charging issues.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Question: Why is my Sony WH-1000XM3 not charging?
- Answer: Your Sony WH-1000XM3 might not charge because of outdated firmware. The headphones operate using built-in software that requires frequent updating. Ensure the headset has the latest firmware version and check if this resolves the problem. If the headphones are not charging, check the charging cable and ensure it is firmly in the headset and charging adapter.
- Question: How do I fix my Sony WH-1000XM3 not charging on my computer?
- Answer: If charging the headset from a computer, ensure that it is on. The headphones won’t charge if your PC is off. Ensure the PC is not in sleep, standby, or hibernation mode. The computer might not release electric current while in sleep or standby mode. Check the incoming power supply by inspecting the USB port to confirm it works properly.
- Question: What do I do if my Sony headphones won’t charge?
- Answer: Your Sony headphones operate using a built-in rechargeable battery. Check that the battery is not faulty before replacing it. You may have to open the earcup holding the battery to confirm if the battery is the issue. Inspect the charging port for dirt and debris that might cause the headset not to charge. If you notice any dirt, clean the charging port with a cotton swab before recharging the headset.
- Question: How do I know if my Sony WH-1000XM3 is charging?
- Answer: You can tell if your headphones are charging by checking the LED light on the headset. Your Sony WH-1000XM3 has an indicator light on the left earcup between the power and NC/ambient buttons. The indicator lights up in red or blue to indicate the status of the headphones.
- Question: How long do Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones last?
- Answer: How long the Sony WH-1000XM3 lasts depends on how you use the headphones. The headset provides up to 30 hours of playback time on a single charge when fully charged. Moreover, charging the rechargeable battery for only 10 minutes gives you 5 hours of playback time.
Conclusion
Even though the Sony WH-1000XM3 is among the best in its class, it might develop charging issues. Your headphones might unexpectedly stop recharging, making you upset as you try fixing them.
Fortunately, troubleshooting and fixing a Sony WH-1000XM3 headset that won’t charge doesn’t have to be complicated. You only need to ensure that you use the supplied charging equipment. Plug the provided power cord into the headset and a compatible AC adapter to resolve the issue.
Follow this guide for more troubleshooting tips on how to fix a Sony WH-1000XM3 that won’t charge.
