ThisCalculator

Everyday

LG V20 Won’t Charge? Solved: 7 Fixes That Work

Updated · Standard formula, shown below

LG V20 Won't Charge? Solved: 7 Fixes That Work

If your LG V20 won’t charge, the fix is usually a damaged charging port, a worn-out battery, or a faulty cable—and you can solve it yourself in most cases. This guide walks you through the most common causes and the exact steps to get your phone charging again, from simple cleaning to part replacement.

Why the LG V20 Stops Charging

The LG V20, released in 2016, has a removable battery and a USB-C port. Over time, several components can fail:

  • Charging port damage: The USB-C port is a common failure point. Lint, dust, or bent pins can prevent a proper connection.
  • Battery degradation: Lithium-ion batteries lose capacity after 300–500 charge cycles. A swollen or old battery may not accept a charge.
  • Faulty cable or adapter: USB-C cables are prone to internal breaks, especially near the connectors. A charger that delivers insufficient power won’t charge the phone.
  • Software glitches: Occasionally, a system crash or a bad app can prevent charging.

Quick Diagnostic Steps

Before opening the phone, try these checks:

  1. Clean the port: Use a wooden toothpick or a soft brush to gently remove debris from the USB-C port. Do not use metal tools.
  2. Try a different cable and adapter: Use a known-good USB-C cable and a wall adapter that outputs at least 5V/1.8A (9W).
  3. Charge from a computer: Plug the phone into a PC’s USB port. If it charges, the issue is likely the wall adapter.
  4. Force restart: Hold the power button and volume down for 10–15 seconds until the phone vibrates and restarts.
  5. Check the battery: Remove the back cover and inspect the battery for swelling or damage. If the battery is swollen, replace it immediately.

Fix 1: Replace the Battery

The LG V20 has a removable battery, which is a rare advantage. If the battery is old or swollen, replacing it is the simplest fix. You can buy a genuine or compatible battery online. To replace:

  1. Power off the phone.
  2. Remove the back cover (it pops off with a firm pull from the bottom).
  3. Lift the battery out.
  4. Insert the new battery, ensuring the gold contacts align.
  5. Press the back cover back on.

If the phone still won’t charge, the issue is elsewhere.

Fix 2: Clean or Replace the Charging Port

If the battery is fine, the charging port is the next suspect. Lint and pocket debris can compact inside the port, blocking the connector. Use a toothpick or a soft brush to clean it. If the port is physically damaged (bent pins, loose connection), it needs replacement. This requires disassembly and soldering—if you’re not comfortable, take it to a repair shop. A new charging port board costs around $10–$20, but labor can be $50–$80.

Fix 3: Check for Software Issues

Sometimes the phone’s charging circuit gets stuck. Try:

  • Safe mode: Boot into safe mode (press and hold power, then tap and hold “Power off” until the safe mode prompt appears). If charging works in safe mode, a third-party app is interfering. Uninstall recently installed apps.
  • Factory reset: Backup your data, then go to Settings > System > Reset > Factory data reset. This clears any software corruption that might block charging.

Fix 4: Wireless Charging (If Applicable)

The LG V20 does not have built-in wireless charging. However, you can add a wireless charging receiver (a thin film that attaches to the back of the phone) and use a Qi wireless charger. This bypasses the USB-C port entirely. The receiver costs about $10, and a charger about $15. This is a good workaround if the port is damaged and you don’t want to repair it.

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

  • Using a fast charger: The V20 supports QuickCharge 3.0, but using a generic fast charger can sometimes cause the phone to not charge if the cable is not rated for it. Stick to a standard 5V/2A charger if you have issues.
  • Charging while the phone is off: If the phone is completely dead, it may take a few minutes of charging before the screen turns on. Leave it plugged in for 10–15 minutes before panicking.
  • Moisture in the port: The V20 is not water-resistant. If the port is wet, dry it with a cloth and wait an hour before charging.

When to Seek Professional Repair

If you’ve tried all the above and the phone still won’t charge, the issue could be a failed charging IC (integrated circuit) on the motherboard. This is a complex repair that requires micro-soldering. A professional repair shop can diagnose and fix it, but the cost may exceed the phone’s value. In that case, consider replacing the phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my LG V20 only charge when the battery is removed?

This is a symptom of a failing battery or a short circuit in the charging circuit. If the phone charges with the battery out (when plugged in, it runs on USB power), the battery is likely dead and needs replacement.

Can I use a different battery brand?

Yes, but make sure it’s compatible with the V20’s battery model (BL-44E1F). Off-brand batteries may have lower capacity or safety issues. Stick to reputable sellers.

How do I know if my cable is the problem?

Try charging another device with the same cable. If it works, the cable is fine. Also, try a different cable with your V20. If the phone charges, the original cable is faulty.

Will a factory reset fix charging issues?

Only if the issue is software-related. If the phone doesn’t charge in safe mode or in recovery, it’s likely a hardware problem, and a reset won’t help.

Is it worth repairing an LG V20 in 2024?

It depends on the cost. If the repair is under $50, it might be worth it if you like the phone. Otherwise, a modern budget phone offers better performance and battery life.

Related

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.