Have you ever had that sinking feeling when one of your AirPods suddenly stops working? Specifically, the left one? Well, you’re not alone. It’s a common issue but fear not, it’s usually a quick fix. In just a few steps, you can get back to enjoying your music or podcasts in both ears.
Step by Step Tutorial: Fixing a Non-Working Left AirPod
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to know that these instructions will help reset your AirPods and hopefully get them working again. It’s a simple process that doesn’t require any special tools or skills.
Step 1: Check the Battery Level
Make sure your AirPods are charged.
If your left AirPod isn’t working, it could simply be out of battery. Place both AirPods in their charging case and make sure they’re charging. The status light should show the current battery level. Give them a little time to charge up and then try using them again.
Step 2: Clean Your AirPods
Gently clean your AirPods, particularly the mesh on the left one.
Sometimes, earwax or debris can block the sound coming from your AirPods. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean them. Be careful not to push any debris further into the AirPod mesh.
Step 3: Reset Your AirPods
Reset your AirPods by holding the setup button on the charging case.
With your AirPods in their charging case, open the lid. Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for about 15 seconds until the status light flashes amber and then white. This resets your AirPods and can often fix connectivity issues.
Step 4: Reconnect Your AirPods
Reconnect your AirPods to your device.
After the reset, your AirPods should appear as "not connected" in your Bluetooth settings. Tap to reconnect them. This can sometimes resolve the issue if it was a simple connectivity or recognition problem.
Step 5: Check Audio Balance
Ensure the audio balance is set correctly on your device.
Go to your device’s settings, find the "Accessibility" menu, and then navigate to "Audio/Visual." Check that the audio balance isn’t set to the right side only. If it is, adjust the slider to the center to balance the sound between both AirPods.
After completing these steps, your non-working left AirPod should be back in action. If not, there may be a deeper issue that requires Apple’s support.
Tips: Ensuring Your AirPods Work Properly
- Always store your AirPods in their case when not in use to keep them charged.
- Avoid exposing your AirPods to extreme temperatures, which can affect battery life and function.
- Update your devices and AirPods firmware regularly for optimal performance.
- If you frequently experience issues, consider resetting your AirPods regularly as a preventative measure.
- For persistent problems, contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my AirPods still don’t work after following these steps?
If you’ve tried all the steps and your left AirPod still isn’t working, it may be a hardware issue. Contact Apple Support for further assistance.
Can I reset my AirPods without the case?
No, you need the case to reset your AirPods. The setup button required for resetting is located on the case.
Will resetting my AirPods delete any saved settings?
Resetting your AirPods will restore them to their factory settings, but once you reconnect them to your device, your personalized settings should be restored.
How often should I clean my AirPods?
It’s advisable to clean your AirPods regularly, especially if you use them frequently or if you notice any build-up.
Can I use third-party tools to clean my AirPods?
It’s best to stick to a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean your AirPods. Avoid liquids and sharp objects that might damage the mesh or components.
Summary
- Charge your AirPods.
- Clean your AirPods, especially the left one.
- Reset your AirPods using the setup button on the case.
- Reconnect your AirPods to your device.
- Check and adjust the audio balance settings if necessary.
Conclusion
Dealing with a non-working left AirPod can be a nuisance, but it’s usually an easy fix. By following the straightforward steps above, you can often troubleshoot the issue yourself without much hassle. Remember, proper care and maintenance are key to the longevity and optimal performance of your AirPods. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and keeping your firmware updated can prevent many common issues.
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get that left AirPod working, don’t hesitate to reach out to Apple Support. They’re experts at fixing non-working left AirPods and will have you back to enjoying your audio experience in no time. Keep in mind that AirPods are sophisticated little devices, and sometimes they just need a little extra help from the pros.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.