You’re ready to hit the road, but your phone’s battery is low. You place it on the Honda Accord wireless charger, but nothing happens. A Honda Accord Wireless Charger Not Working is a common frustration that can stem from several simple causes or point to a more complex issue. This guide will walk you through every step to diagnose and fix the problem, saving you a trip to the dealership.
We’ll start with the easiest solutions and progress to more technical checks. You don’t need to be a mechanic to follow these steps. Often, the fix is quicker than you think.
Honda Accord Wireless Charger Not Working
Before we look at specific fixes, it’s important to understand how the system works. Your Accord’s wireless charger uses a technology called Qi (pronounced “chee”). It creates an electromagnetic field to transfer energy to your phone without any cables. For this to work, several conditions must be just right: phone compatibility, proper alignment, and no physical obstructions.
Step 1: The Obvious Quick Checks (Do These First)
Most problems are solved right here. Let’s eliminate the simple stuff.
- Is the Wireless Charging Feature On? Check your infotainment screen. There should be a wireless charging setting. Make sure it’s toggled to “On.” Sometimes it can be accidentally disabled.
- Is Your Phone Compatible? Your phone must support Qi wireless charging. Most modern smartphones do, but double-check your model. Also, some phones with very large cameras or bulky cases might not sit flat on the charging surface.
- Is Your Phone Positioned Correctly? The charging coil in your phone must align with the coil in the charger. Gently move your phone around on the charging pad. You might feel a slight vibration or see a charging icon appear when it’s in the right spot.
- Have You Removed the Phone Case? Thick cases, especially those with metal plates, metal rings, or magnetic kickstands, can block charging. Take your phone out of its case and try charging it bare.
Step 2: Inspect for Physical Issues
If the quick checks didn’t work, look closer at the hardware.
- Look for Debris: Check the charging pad area for any loose change, paper clips, or dust. Foreign objects can interfere with the magnetic field and even overheat.
- Check for Damage: Inspect the charging pad surface for any cracks, scratches, or liquid damage. If you’ve ever spilled a drink, moisture could have gotten inside.
- Verify the Connection: The charging pad has a wired connection. In some models, you can gently check if the cable connected to the back of the pad is secure. Don’t force anything, but a loose plug is a possible culprit.
Step 3: Deeper Electrical & System Checks
Now we need to see if power is reaching the charger and if your car’s software is up to date.
Checking Fuses and Power
The wireless charger has a dedicated fuse. Your owner’s manual has a fuse diagram. Locate the fuse for the wireless charger (often labeled as such or as “front accessory”). Use a fuse puller or tweezers to remove it and check if the tiny metal strip inside is broken. Replace it with a fuse of the exact same amperage.
Testing with Another Device
Borrow a friend’s phone that you know supports Qi charging. If their phone charges fine, the problem is likely with your phone. If their phone also doesn’t charge, the issue is with the car’s system.
Performing a System Reset
Sometimes, the infotainment system just needs a reboot. Here’s how:
- Turn off the car and open the driver’s side door. Wait for about 30 seconds for the system to fully power down.
- Close the door and start the car again. Test the charger.
- If that fails, you can try disconnecting the 12-volt battery for 15 minutes. Remember this will reset clock and radio presets, so note them down first.
Checking for Software Updates
Honda occasionally releases software updates for the infotainment system that can fix bugs. Connect your car to a strong Wi-Fi network and check for updates in the system settings. You can also visit your local dealer to have them check.
Step 4: Phone-Specific Troubleshooting
If other devices charge but yours doesn’t, the focus shifts to your phone.
- Restart Your Phone: A simple reboot can clear up software glitches that prevent charging.
- Check Phone Settings: Some phones have a setting to enable/disable wireless charging. Search your phone’s settings for “wireless charging” or “battery” options.
- Clean Your Phone’s Charging Area: Wipe the back of your phone, especially the center, with a clean, dry cloth. Dirt or a sticky residue can be a barrier.
- Test on Another Charger: Try charging your phone on a public Qi charger or a friend’s wireless pad. If it doesn’t work there either, your phone’s wireless receiver may be damaged.
Step 5: When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried all the steps above and the charger is still dead, it’s time for professional diagnosis.
- Visit Your Honda Dealer: The wireless charger is covered under your vehicle’s bumper-to-bumper warranty if the car is new. Describe all the troubleshooting steps you’ve already done. This saves them time and you money.
- What They Might Do: The technician will likely use specialized diagnostic tools to check for error codes in the body control module. They can test the voltage at the charger and, if needed, replace the wireless charging pad assembly.
- Consider an Aftermarket Solution: If your car is out of warranty and the dealer repair is to expensive, a high-quality aftermarket wireless charger that plugs into your 12V socket or USB port could be a reliable and cheaper alternative.
Preventive Tips to Keep It Working
A little care can prevent most issues from starting.
- Avoid placing keys, coins, or metal objects on the charging pad.
- Keep the area clean and dry. Use a can of compressed air to blow out dust occasionally.
- Use phone cases that are certified for wireless charging and aren’t overly thick.
- Try not to let your phone overheat on the pad. If it’s very hot from navigation and sunlight, let it cool first.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does my Honda Accord wireless charger work intermittently?
This is usually caused by poor alignment or a thick phone case. Your phone might shift while driving, breaking the connection. It can also be a sign of a failing charging pad or a loose internal connection.
Does the car need to be running for the wireless charger to work?
Typically, yes. The charger usually requires the ignition to be in the “ON” or “ACC” position. It may not function if the car is completely off to prevent draining the 12-volt battery.
My phone says it’s charging but the battery percentage goes down. Why?
This happens if your phone is using more power (for GPS, streaming) than the wireless charger can provide. Wireless charging is slower than wired. Try closing power-hungry apps or use a wired charger for fast charging while navigating.
Can I add a wireless charger to an Accord that didn’t come with one?
Yes. Honda dealers often offer a genuine accessory wireless charger kit for installation in the front console. There are also many aftermarket kits available that can be installed professionally or as a DIY project if your comfortable with minor interior trim removal.
Is it bad to leave my phone on the wireless charger all the time?
Modern phones and chargers are designed to manage battery health. Once your phone reaches 100%, charging typically stops. However, for long-term battery longevity, it’s generally better to not keep it at 100% constantly. Occasional use is perfectly fine.
Dealing with a non-functional wireless charger can be annoying, but it’s rarely a catastrophic problem. By methodically working through these steps—from checking your phone case to inspecting fuses—you can almost always identify the cause. Most solutions are simple and free. If the issue turns out to be a hardware fault, your dealership has the parts and expertise to get your convenient cord-free charging back up and running. Remember, starting with the simplest fix is almost always the best approach.