Those who own a Hoverboard know it’s more than a fancy gadget or a rich kid’s toy. It is a helpful device that can quickly take you to nearby locations without hassle or the need for gas. The trouble begins if you find one morning that your hoverboard won’t turn on!
There are many reasons that can lead to problems while trying to turn on a hoverboard. Issues with the charger, battery, wiring, or motherboard are the most common problems. These issues can be addressed and fixed easily, too – and the board should turn on in no time!
So if you’re facing problems turning on your hoverboard, keep reading to identify the cause – and find out how to solve it.
Why a Hoverboard Won’t Turn On? – Possible Reasons
There could be several reasons why your hoverboard will not turn on. Take a look at these individually.
Charger Issues
If the scooter doesn’t turn on, it might be because it’s not charging properly – the reason being a slow or faulty charger. A defective charging port might also prevent proper power flow from the charger to the hoverboard.
You can detect it if you notice that the light has not turned on when you connect the charger to the board. Or, the green indicator light may turn on immediately after plugging the charger into the hoverboard.
Battery Issues
The battery could be another problem. After you plug the charger into the board, the red light turns on first, and then the indicator stays green. If it starts flashing orange light when you try to switch it on, the battery might be the issue.
Another reason is a depleted battery due to repeated charging and use. It loses the ability to get charged, and its amperage reduces. Too much amperage during charge can also cause defects in the battery management system.
Wiring Issues
Wiring issues can also lead to a problem while trying to turn on the hoverboard. The internal wiring system can become loose due to high-impact knocks or falls. The wires might also get burnt or frayed. This results in the insufficient power flow in the hoverboard.
Motherboard Problems
Another reason behind hoverboard problems is its motherboard or logic board. This board is the center of control for the motor, sensors, wheels, etc. There could be physical damage or short circuits. But usually, motherboard problems are hard to detect.
Defective Hoverboard
The final issue that can prevent your hoverboard from switching on is a defective device. It could be a manufacturing or shipping issue, especially if the problem occurs right from the start. If the model is faulty, troubleshooting will not solve the problem.
How to Fix a Hoverboard that Won’t Turn On?
Now you know what problems can affect the hoverboard and prevent it from turning on. It’s time to find out how these issues can be fixed. Let’s check out the individual solutions.
Fix Charger Issues
If the hoverboard is not getting charged properly – and it’s not a port problem – you may need to replace the charger. Make sure to buy one compatible with your board and manufactured by the same company. But first, you should do the following –
Check If Your Charger is Defective
Plug the charger into the hoverboard. If the charger is not working properly, the indicator will either go green immediately or not turn on at all. This indicates that the charger isn’t working correctly. If possible, plug in another charger compatible with your board as a test.
Make Sure the Charger is Inserted Properly
It is possible that the charger is malfunctioning because of a misaligned charging port. You can take a look at the three pins of the port to see if they are all in place. Also, check the charger cord’s slot and verify if it lines up with the tab of the charging port.
Fix Battery Issues
When the battery in your hoverboard is faulty or depleted, all you need to do is replace it with a new one. If you know your way around tools and electronic hardware, you can handle this yourself. But we suggest taking an expert’s help for this. Here’s how to identify the problem:
Check for a Faulty Battery
When you plug the charger into the hoverboard, the indicator of your fully charged hoverboard may not stay green. You might notice an orange light blinking constantly. It is a sign of a faulty battery. It has to be a judgment call to decide when the board is charged completely.
Check for a Depleted Battery
A depleted battery means repeated usage and charging have reduced its life. Take the battery out and use a voltage meter to check if the voltage has dropped below 36V. Quick battery drainage, slow charging, orange light flashes, etc., further confirm the problem.
Fix Wiring Issues
Check the wires and see if they are loose in the area of connection with the charging port or the motherboard. Also, check if it’s frayed or burnt. If you notice any of these, the wires may need to be fixed or soldered. It’s best to seek professional help from the manufacturer.
Fix Gyroscope Issues
The gyroscope can measure speed and tilt. It can be a male gyroscope that has two receiving ports with a wire harness – or a female one with 2-4 receiving ports and no wire harness. Check if your hoverboard has a male or female gyroscope before replacing it.
Fix Motherboard Problems
If the reason behind the hoverboard not turning on is the motherboard, the solution lies in replacing or repairing it. Identifying this problem is usually done by eliminating the chances of other causes. Instead of taking the call yourself, it’s best to reach out to the manufacturer.
Fix Motor Issues
A hoverboard is usually engineered with a motor on each wheel. It has tilt and speed sensors. Fixing motor issues by repairing or replacing them would mean removing the wheels first. But again, it is a complex process that should best be handled by experts.
What to Do with a Defective Hoverboard?
If your hoverboard arrives with manufacturing, processing, or shipping defects, none of the above steps will help. In that case, the trouble of not turning on will start right out of the box or after little usage. In that case, you must contact the retailer and ask for a replacement.
Hoverboard Maintenance Tips
Many issues that lead to problems in turning on the hoverboard arise due to damage or lack of maintenance. However, if you take care of your device, it will last for many years. Here are some maintenance tips to extend the life of your hoverboard and its charger.
Clean the Wheels Frequently
Clean the wheels of your hoverboard regularly. This will not just give you a chance to remove moisture or debris that may slowly damage the wheels or the motors. It will also allow you to inspect the device routinely. Use warm soapy water and a brush to clean them.
Keep Your Hoverboard Clean
It is not enough to keep only the wheels clean. You should also clean the entire board often. It will stop any mess – wet or dry – from damaging the circuits or other internal parts of the device. Use a soft fabric and water to clean it – and dry it with an absorbent cloth.
Keep the Battery Charged
Charge the hoverboard’s battery regularly to prevent it from fully draining out. Otherwise, the overall longevity of the battery may be harmed. Don’t wait for the battery indicator to turn red! Also, if you’re planning on not using the device for a long time, top it up before storage.
Keep the Hoverboard Cool
You must charge the hoverboard battery often. But beware! Don’t plug in the charger during extreme weather conditions or leave it charging long after it has reached 100%. Also, let the gadget rest when it becomes hot after prolonged use – and store it in a cool, dry place.
Maintain Your Foot Paddle
The foot paddle of your hoverboard is essential for stability while riding. If it feels unstable, make sure to get the device checked. Loose paddles can be unsafe as they may get detached from the hoverboard body and injure the rider – and the ride.
Final Words
If your hoverboard won’t turn on, it is more than an inconvenience. Consider it a cause for concern about the gadget’s health. So try to identify the problem and find a solution. But if you are an absolute novice, simply contact the manufacturer and get the problem fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Reset Button on a Hoverboard?
Hoverboards have a power on/off button that acts as a reset button and solves many problems. You can press and hold the button for 10 seconds before turning the board off. This helps reset the gadget, but we recommend avoiding this unless it’s essential.
Can you Overcharge a Hoverboard?
Charging the hoverboard is needed. But don’t overcharge it, i.e., leave it plugged in overnight or for 4-5 hours after a 100% backup. Doing so is counterproductive. It will heat up, strain, and eventually deplete the battery, leading to faster drainage and failure.
Can you Use Hoverboard in the Rain?
Many all-terrain hoverboards with large wheels can be ridden on damp grass or with wet feet. Waterproof hoverboards can also handle water splashes. But you shouldn’t attempt to ride them on wet surfaces or during the rain. It is unsafe for the rider and the hoverboard.
June VanDerKamp says
Hi my hoverboard is a helix 1. I got 2 of them. They both will not turn on unless plugged in. The charger on both are green when plugged in and stays green the whole time. When plugged in and you xan turn it on, you unplug them they shut off. I switched charger ,still them same. Any suggestions. Thank you