One AirPod not working: what should you check before replacing it?

If one AirPod stops working, it does not always mean the earbud needs replacing. Charging, debris, audio balance or a connection problem can make one side appear faulty. Run through a few checks before buying another AirPod.

1. Charge both AirPods for 30 seconds

Make sure the charging case itself has power. Put both AirPods inside, close the lid and give them at least 30 seconds. Open the case near your iPhone or iPad and check the battery status for each earbud.

2. Test the AirPod on its own

Put the AirPod that is not working in your ear. Leave the other AirPod in the charging case, close the lid and play audio. This helps confirm whether the problem is isolated to one earbud.

3. Check the speaker and microphone mesh

If one side is much quieter rather than completely silent, inspect the speaker and microphone mesh. Debris can reduce the volume enough to make an AirPod seem faulty. Clean the AirPods using the appropriate method for your model.

4. Check the left/right audio balance

On iPhone or iPad, go to Settings, Accessibility, Audio & Visual, then Balance. Make sure the balance slider is centred. A balance setting pushed to one side can make the other AirPod extremely quiet or silent.

5. Reset and reconnect the AirPods

If the AirPod still does not work, reset the pair and reconnect them. AirPods 1, 2, 3, AirPods Pro 1 and AirPods Pro 2 use the setup button on the back of the case. AirPods 4 models and AirPods Pro 3 use the newer front-of-case reset sequence.

When does replacement make sense?

If one earbud still does not charge, connect or play audio after the checks above, replacing only the faulty AirPod may be more practical than replacing the entire set. Before ordering, identify the exact generation and model number so the replacement matches your existing AirPod and case.

Read: Can you buy one AirPod?