Why Car Charger Stops Charging While Driving? Simple Fixes

It can be super frustrating when your phone stops charging while you’re driving! If you’re new to this, figuring out why car charger stops charging while driving can feel tricky. Don’t worry, though. This is a common problem, and the solutions are often pretty simple. We’ll explore the main reasons this happens, step by step, so you can get your phone charging again quickly. Let’s get started!

Common Reasons Your Car Charger Might Fail

There are several reasons why your car charger might stop working. These issues aren’t always complex and frequently stem from problems with the charger itself, your car’s power outlet, or the device you’re trying to charge. Addressing these issues can get your phone or other devices charging again. Let’s explore the common culprits and how to check them out. We will explore each factor, giving you a clear picture of what could be causing the issue.

Faulty Charger Issues

One of the most frequent causes is a faulty charger. Chargers are made to manage a lot of use, but they can still fail over time. The internal components, like the circuit board or the charging cable, can be affected by heat, constant use, or even physical damage. It is a good first step to check the charger, and a quick test will sometimes reveal the problem. Let’s look at some specific elements that might contribute to this.

• Cable Damage: Over time, the charging cable might get damaged. Bent, frayed, or broken wires inside the cable disrupt the power flow. The damage could be near the connector or anywhere along the cable. This means the charger may work intermittently or stop charging altogether.

To check for damage, visually inspect the cable. Look for any visible signs of wear and tear, especially near the connectors or where the cable bends frequently. Try wiggling the cable near the connectors while it’s plugged in to see if the charging resumes. If it does, the cable is the issue.

• Internal Circuit Issues: The internal circuits within the charger itself can fail. This includes components like resistors, capacitors, and the charging chip. Overheating or power surges can damage these components, leading to charging failure.

You can’t usually see internal damage, but you might notice the charger feeling unusually hot or not working in any car. This indicates a deeper problem, requiring a charger

• Loose Connections: Loose connections within the charger or at the connectors can interrupt the power supply. The connector at the end of the cable (like a USB-C or Lightning connector) may not fit snugly into your device or the car charger port.

Check the charger connections for any loose parts. Sometimes, a little dust or debris can prevent a solid connection. Try cleaning the charging port with a non-conductive tool, like a toothpick or a small brush. If the connector fits loosely, try a different cable or charger.

• Overheating: Overheating can damage a car charger. Leaving it plugged in and exposed to direct sunlight can heat it up. Prolonged charging at high currents or using a charger that is not compatible with your device can also cause overheating.

If the charger feels hot to the touch, unplug it and let it cool. Overheating can reduce the lifespan of the charger. Consider using a car charger that supports over-temperature protection. Also, avoid leaving chargers plugged in if you aren’t using them, and try to keep them out of direct sunlight.

Problems With Your Car’s Power Outlet

Sometimes the issue isn’t the charger, but the car’s power outlet itself. The car’s power outlet (also known as the cigarette lighter port or 12V outlet) provides the electricity that the car charger uses. Over time, these outlets can become loose, corroded, or develop other problems that stop the charger from working correctly. Let’s look into the reasons why this happens.

• Loose Outlet Connections: The car’s power outlet might not have a secure connection to the charger. This is often caused by the outlet wearing out or the charger not fitting snugly. A loose connection causes intermittent power flow or a complete failure to charge.

To check this, ‘s movement or if charging is unreliable, there might be a problem with the outlet or the fit.

• Blown Fuse: Many car power outlets have a fuse. The fuse protects the car’s electrical system from overload. If the fuse blows, the outlet won’t provide power, so the charger won’t work. This can happen if you try to draw too much power from the outlet.

Check the car’s fuse box for the fuse related to the power outlet. The car owner’s manual will tell you where it is and which fuse to check.

• Corrosion or Debris in the Outlet: Dust, debris, or corrosion in the power outlet can interrupt the electrical connection. Over time, the outlet might collect dirt, or moisture can cause corrosion. This will impact the electrical flow and prevent the charger from working.

  Carefully clean the power outlet using a cotton swab or a soft brush. Make sure the car is off and the key is out of the ignition. Avoid using liquids directly in the outlet. If there’s a lot of corrosion, consider consulting a mechanic, as you may need to replace the outlet.

• Outlet Power Limit: Some cars have power outlets that don’t provide a lot of power. If your charger requires more power than the outlet can provide, it might not work correctly. This is especially true for chargers that provide fast charging.

Check your car’s owner manual to find the power rating of the power outlet. Ensure that the charger’s power requirements (usually marked on the charger itself) don’t exceed what the outlet can provide. If the charger needs more power, it might not work or only charge slowly.

Device Compatibility and Settings

Sometimes, the issue is not the charger or the power outlet, but your device itself. Devices have certain power requirements and charging settings. When there is a problem with the charging process, it can involve the device’s internal mechanisms or its compatibility with the charger. Here is what to consider.

• Device Power Requirements: Your device might need a certain level of power to charge. If the car charger isn’t providing enough power (amps), the device might not charge or will charge very slowly. Tablets and larger smartphones often require more power than older or less powerful devices.

Check the specifications of your device. See how much power it needs to charge efficiently. Make sure that your car charger provides that much power. Chargers often list the power output (in watts or amps). It should match or exceed the device’s needs. For example, a phone needing 15W of power should use a charger that provides at least that much.

• Charging Port Issues on Your Device: The charging port on your device (e.g., a USB-C or Lightning port) can get damaged. Dirt, debris, or damage to the pins inside the port can interfere with the charging process. This can affect the connection, preventing the device from charging.

Inspect the charging port on your device for any visible signs of damage or debris. Use a non-conductive tool, like a toothpick or a small brush, to gently clean the port. Be careful not to damage the pins inside. Also, check for loose connections by wiggling the charging cable while it is plugged into the device.

• Software or Hardware Glitches: Sometimes, a software glitch or a hardware issue within your device can prevent charging. The device’s operating system or charging management system might have an error that stops it from accepting power. Older hardware, such as a failing battery, could also be at fault.

  Try restarting your device. A simple restart can often resolve software glitches. Make sure your device’s operating system is up to date. If the problem persists, contact the device manufacturer or a repair specialist. A hardware issue might need a professional repair or replacement.

• Charging Speed Settings: Some devices have settings that can limit charging speed. For example, some phones allow you to choose between slow, optimized, and fast charging modes. Slow charging will take longer to charge your device.

Explore your device’s settings to see if it allows you to adjust the charging speed. Make sure fast charging is enabled, if your device and charger support it. This will make sure that the device is trying to draw as much power as it can from the charger. Also, check to see if there is any option for charging protection.

Troubleshooting Steps to Resolve Charging Issues

When the car charger doesn’t work, a methodical approach can help you discover what’s wrong. You can follow these steps, testing different components and ruling out potential causes. This will help you pinpoint the issue and fix it.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

Here are some steps to take to fix the car charging issues. Using these steps will assist you to identify the problem:

1. Check the Car Charger: The first step is to inspect the car charger itself. Look for any visible damage to the cable and the charger body. Try using the charger with a different device. If the other device also doesn’t charge, the charger may be faulty and need replacement.

Examine the charging cable for any visible damage, such as cuts, bends, or frays. If the cable is removable, try swapping it with another known-good cable. If the charger has a USB port, you can use the same cable as you use to charge from a wall socket.

2. Test the Car’s Power Outlet: Next, ensure that the car’s power outlet is working. Try using a different device, such as another charger or a device that plugs directly into the outlet. If the other device doesn’t work, there may be an issue with the outlet, such as a blown fuse or loose connection.

Use a different charger or an adapter that you know is working to confirm whether the issue is with the outlet or with the car charger. It’s often helpful to plug something simple like a phone charger or a small lamp into the outlet to see if it powers on. This helps confirm whether the outlet is getting power.

3. Inspect the Device and Charging Port: Check the charging port on your device for any debris or damage. Clean the port gently with a non-conductive tool. Try using a different charging cable with your device. If it charges with a different cable, the original cable might be the issue.

Examine the device’s charging port for lint or other debris. Use a toothpick or compressed air to remove any obstructions that may be blocking the connection. If your device has multiple charging ports, you could try them all. If other ports are not working, the device itself may have a problem.

4. Test with Another Car: To check if the issue is with the car or the charger, try the charger in another car. If the charger works in another car, the issue is likely with the car’s power outlet or wiring. If the charger does not work in another car, it may be the charger.

Borrow a car charger from a friend or family member if you can. Test your device with that charger in your car. If your device charges, the issue is with your charger, and you will need to replace it. A good charger can often be picked up in a gas station or online, if a replacement is needed.

5. Consult the Car’s Manual: The car’s manual will provide important information about the power outlets, including fuse locations and power ratings. If you’ve checked the fuse and outlet but the charger still doesn’t work, refer to your car’s manual for further guidance or troubleshooting steps.

The car manual can help with the fuse box location and fuse types for the car’s power outlet. You may also find information about the power ratings of the car’s power outlet and other helpful troubleshooting tips. The manual is a great resource if you are trying to find answers about your car.

Essential Tools for Troubleshooting

To do these checks, you don’t need fancy tools, but here are some items that can make the process easier. Having these tools available makes troubleshooting more effective. Here are the tools:

• Multimeter: A multimeter can check for voltage and continuity. It’s helpful for checking the car’s power outlet and ensuring it’s providing the correct power. You can check the voltage to see if it matches your car’s 12V system.

To use a multimeter, you’ll put the probes into the power outlet. The reading should be close to 12 volts when the car is running. If you get a reading of zero, the outlet is not getting power. This might indicate a blown fuse or a wiring issue.

• Fuse Tester: A fuse tester quickly checks if a fuse is blown. It’s a handy tool to have when you suspect a blown fuse in your car’s power outlet. It will help confirm whether the fuse is working without having to remove it.

A fuse tester usually has probes that you place on either side of the fuse. If the light comes on, the fuse is good. If the light does not come on, the fuse is blown, and you need to replace it. A tester makes checking fuses easier and faster.

• Non-Conductive Tools for Cleaning: You can use non-conductive tools to clean the charging port and car outlet. Items like plastic picks, toothpicks, or small brushes are safe. They won’t cause shorts.

These tools are great for removing debris and cleaning up corroded connections. Be careful when cleaning to prevent damage. Be sure to turn the car off and remove the key from the ignition to prevent shorts. Also, avoid using metal tools, as they could cause a short.

• Replacement Fuses: Always have some replacement fuses of different amp ratings on hand. The car owner’s manual shows the right fuse type. If the fuse for the car’s power outlet is blown, having a spare fuse means you can restore power right away.

Make sure you have a range of fuse ratings that fit your car’s needs. Buy a small assortment to ensure that you have replacements. It is also good to consult your car’s manual. A wrong fuse can cause damage to the car’s electronics.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many car charger problems are easy to fix, there are times when you should seek professional help. If you’ve tried the basic troubleshooting steps, but the problem continues, or if you’re not comfortable working with electrical systems, it’s best to consult a professional. Here’s when to seek help.

Signs You Need a Mechanic

Sometimes the issue is more involved, and you’ll need assistance from an auto mechanic. Here are a few instances when you should get help.

• Recurring Fuse Blows: If the fuse keeps blowing after replacing it, there might be a wiring issue, which could cause a short. This can be caused by damage to the car’s wiring. If you’re continuously blowing fuses, there could be an issue with the power outlet.

A mechanic can find the source of the short and fix it. They will check the wiring and other electrical components to ensure everything is working correctly. Fixing the problem will keep you from damaging your car’s electrical system.

• Outlet or Wiring Damage: If you see signs of physical damage to the car’s power outlet, such as melted plastic, or if you see damaged wires, get it checked by a mechanic. Damage to the wiring can be a fire risk. It may also interfere with other car systems.

A mechanic can fix or replace damaged parts. They can inspect the entire system to ensure that there aren’t other issues, as well. Ignoring any wiring damage can create more problems down the line, and that could lead to even more expensive repairs.

• Complex Electrical Issues: If you’re experiencing electrical problems in other parts of your car, it could be a sign of a more significant electrical fault. Electrical problems can be hard to find and need special knowledge and tools to fix.

A mechanic has the diagnostic tools and experience needed to find and resolve complex electrical problems. Don’t take a risk trying to fix these problems yourself. Incorrectly handling them can cause additional damage. Seek assistance if you encounter these problems.

• Battery Drain or Charging Problems: If your car battery is dying faster than usual, or if there is an issue with your car’s charging system, it could be related to a problem with the car’s power outlets. A mechanic can test the battery. They can also test the charging system to determine the cause of the problem.

If your car’s battery is dying, or your car is not charging correctly, these issues are not limited to just your car charger. A mechanic can perform electrical system testing to identify the cause of the problem. If it is related to your car charging issues, the mechanic will know how to fix it.

When to Contact a Device Repair Specialist

Sometimes, the issue is with your device itself, not the car charger or the car’s electrical system. If you suspect an issue with your device, you should contact a device repair specialist.

• Charging Port Issues: If you have already inspected the charging port and cleaned it, and you’re still not able to charge, there could be more damage. Device repair specialists can replace damaged charging ports, which could solve the issue.

They have the right tools to replace the charging port safely, and they know how to work on different devices. This can resolve connection issues related to charging, as well as ensure the long-term viability of your device.

• Battery Problems: If your device isn’t holding a charge, there could be an issue with your device’s battery. A device repair specialist can check your device’s battery and either repair it or replace it.

This may extend the life of your device by fixing battery problems. Battery replacement can solve issues, such as slow charging or not charging at all. A specialist can help you fix the issue safely.

• Software or Hardware Glitches: Device repair specialists can troubleshoot software or hardware glitches that prevent your device from charging. They can diagnose and fix software problems. They can replace components such as the charging circuit.

They have the tools and expertise to find and fix issues that stop your device from working right. They can help solve complicated software and hardware problems to make sure that your device functions well. They also have access to resources that regular users may not have.

• Water Damage: If your device was exposed to water, water damage could have damaged the charging port. A device repair specialist can provide water damage repair service to fix your device.

A repair specialist can disassemble and clean your device. They may also inspect and replace damaged components, returning your device to its original function. Water damage can result in irreversible damage if left alone. Make sure that you let a specialist address this kind of issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Why does my phone say it’s charging, but the battery level isn’t increasing?

Answer: There are a few reasons. The charger may not be providing enough power. The charging cable might be damaged. Or, your device might have a software glitch or internal battery problem.

Question: Can I use any car charger with my phone?

Answer: Yes, you can. You should check the car charger’s power output (in watts or amps). It should meet or exceed your device’s charging requirements. Be sure to read the device’s documentation.

Question: Why does my car charger work sometimes and not others?

Answer: It could be a loose connection between the charger and the car’s power outlet or a problem with the cable. In some instances, it might be the device’s charging port.

Question: What should I do if my car’s power outlet isn’t working?

Answer: First, check the fuse related to your car’s power outlet. You should also check the outlet for debris or corrosion. You can also try another device to test the outlet.

Question: Is it safe to leave my car charger plugged in when it’s not in use?

Answer: It’s generally safe. However, leaving a charger plugged in can still use a small amount of electricity, and it might wear down the charger faster.

Final Thoughts

Finding out why car charger stops charging while driving can be a bit of a process, but solving the problem is generally simple. We’ve explored common culprits, such as faulty chargers, car outlet issues, and device compatibility. Remember to test different components step by step, from the charger and cable to your car’s power outlet and your device. Check the charging port for any debris. Inspect the cable for damage. If problems persist, and after the suggested checks, consider getting help. By following these steps and understanding the basics, you should be able to get your phone charging again while you’re driving. Keep in mind: quick fixes are possible, and knowing a little troubleshooting can save you time and money!