Why would my Fitbit not turn on?

Answered by Stephen Mosley

There are several reasons why your Fitbit device may not turn on. Let’s explore each possibility and discuss potential solutions.

1. Drained Battery: The most common reason for a Fitbit not turning on is a drained battery. If your device has been inactive for a while or if it hasn’t been charged properly, the battery may be completely depleted. To check if this is the issue, connect your Fitbit to its charging cable and plug it into a power source. Make sure the pins on the charging cable are properly aligned with the charging port on the device. Leave it connected for at least 30 minutes to allow the battery to charge.

2. Charging Issues: Sometimes, the problem may lie with the charging cable or the charging port on your Fitbit. Inspect the charging cable for any visible damage, such as frayed wires or bent pins. If you notice any issues, try using a different charging cable to see if that resolves the problem. Additionally, check the charging port on your Fitbit for any debris or dirt that may be obstructing the connection. If necessary, gently clean the charging port using a soft, dry cloth or a toothpick.

3. Software Error: Occasionally, a software error can cause your Fitbit to freeze or become unresponsive. In such cases, performing a restart or a factory reset can help resolve the issue. To restart your Fitbit, simply hold down the button on the device for about 10-15 seconds until the screen turns off and then release the button. Wait a few seconds and press the button again to turn it back on. If a restart doesn’t work, you can try performing a factory reset. However, note that a factory reset will erase all data from your Fitbit, so it should be used as a last resort. Instructions for performing a factory reset can be found on the Fitbit website or in the user manual.

4. Physical Damage: If your Fitbit has been subjected to physical damage, such as being dropped or exposed to water, it may not turn on due to internal component failures. In such cases, it is best to contact Fitbit support or visit an authorized service center to assess the extent of the damage and explore repair options.

5. Outdated Firmware: In some instances, outdated firmware can cause issues with your Fitbit device. To check for firmware updates, open the Fitbit app on your smartphone and navigate to the device settings. Look for any available updates and install them if necessary. Keeping your Fitbit’s firmware up to date can help resolve any software-related issues.

If none of these solutions work, it may indicate a more serious hardware problem with your Fitbit device. In such cases, it is recommended to reach out to Fitbit support for further assistance and troubleshooting.

Remember, these suggestions are general guidelines and may not apply to every Fitbit model. Always refer to the official Fitbit support resources or contact their customer service for specific instructions tailored to your device.