Quick answer
If your phone is not charging, first test the cable and charger on another device, clean the USB port and try another outlet. Then check if the phone charges wirelessly or via computer. If nothing helps, a port or battery failure is possible and service is the best solution.
How to recognize the problem
- Phone does not show charging when plugged in
- Charging takes long or percentage does not change
- Cable or charger gets hot during charging
- Phone only charges when cable is held at a certain angle
- Battery drains quickly after charging
Most common causes
Faulty cable or charger
The cable may be damaged or the charger does not supply enough current. The fault often occurs at the cable bend or at the connector itself.
Dirty or damaged USB port
Dust, lint or oxidation in the port prevent contact. Forcing the plug can bend the pins.
Software issues
Rarely, an update or an app can affect charging. Checking in safe mode helps rule out a software cause.
Worn-out battery
The battery loses capacity over time and may refuse to charge. This is more common on phones older than two years.
Motherboard or port failure
If the cable and charger are working but the phone does not charge, a hardware failure requiring service is possible.
Step-by-step fix
- 1
Test the cable and charger on another device
Connect the same cable and charger to another phone or tablet. If the other device does not charge, the problem is likely the equipment. If it charges, continue checking the phone.
- 2
Clean the USB port
Turn off the phone and carefully inspect the port. Use a toothpick or soft brush to remove dust. Do not use metal objects and do not blow into the port because moisture can cause damage.
- 3
Try another cable and charger
Use another cable and charger that are known to work. Connect the phone and check if it charges. If it does, the old cable or charger is faulty.
- 4
Connect the phone to a computer
Plug the phone into a USB port on a computer. If the computer recognizes the phone and starts charging it, the phone port is probably working. If not, the problem may be the port or cable.
- 5
Check wireless charging
If the phone supports wireless charging, place it on a wireless charger. If it charges wirelessly, the USB port is likely faulty. This indicates a hardware port failure.
- 6
Restart the phone
Press and hold the power button, then select
Restart. Sometimes a software glitch prevents charging. After restart, plug the charger back in. - 7
Check in safe mode
If the phone still charges but slowly, enter safe mode. Press and hold the power button to open the menu, then long-press
Power offuntil theSafe modeoption appears. If it charges normally, an app is causing the problem. - 8
Check battery health
Install an app like
AccuBatterythat estimates battery condition. If the estimated capacity is significantly lower than the design capacity, the battery has degraded. Battery replacement is then a realistic option. - 9
Check charging settings
In
Settings > Battery, check ifAdaptive chargingorBattery protectionis enabled. Temporarily disable that option. If charging improves, enable it again because it extends battery life.
If nothing helps
If you have tried another cable and charger, cleaned the port and the phone still does not charge, the problem is likely hardware. Before service, if possible, back up your data because service may erase the phone. Then take the device to an authorized service center. If the phone is under warranty, do not open it yourself because you will lose the warranty. The service will diagnose the port, battery or motherboard. Port repair is usually cheaper than motherboard replacement. If the phone is old and the repair is expensive, consider a new device.
How to prevent it
- Use an original or certified charger and cable
- Regularly clean the USB port from dust
- Avoid charging in humid conditions
- Do not leave the phone in direct sunlight while charging
When to call a professional
If the phone does not respond to any charger, if the port feels loose or if you suspect a battery failure, contact IT support or an authorized service center. Do not try to open the phone yourself because you risk further damage.
IT infrastructure maintenance · Servers, networks, backup, security and helpdeskFAQ
Why does the phone charge only when I move the cable?
This indicates poor contact in the USB port or a damaged cable. First try another cable, then clean the port. If the problem persists, the port is probably damaged and needs replacement.
Is it safe to use the phone while charging?
Yes, but if the phone overheats or the charger gets too hot, stop charging. Use the original charger and avoid playing demanding games while the phone is charging.
How much does USB port replacement cost on an Android phone?
The price depends on the model and service. In Serbia, port replacement usually costs between 2,000 and 6,000 dinars, and for more expensive models it can be more. Ask an authorized service for the exact price.