A USB port or USB socket is a convenient input type that lets you connect various electronics to your vehicle, such as mobile devices, USB sticks, and portable GPS navigation units. It’s a massive quality-of-life upgrade, expanding the things you can do while on the road, from listening to music to charging your phone.
As such, a malfunctioning port may often result in unpleasant drives, especially for those who depend a lot on these nifty sockets. Luckily, finding and fixing the cause of the issue is usually easy.
Possible Reasons Why a Car USB Port Isn’t Working
A car USB port might not work because of a blown fuse, cable problems, incompatible device settings, outdated firmware, built-up debris in the port, or extensive damage.
Blown Fuse
Cars have fuses designed to protect the electrical wiring. If one blows, it could shut down the electricity and circuit that powers the USB port, which means the radio will be dead as well.
Pro Tips are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.
Pro Tip: The USB port gets its power from the entertainment system unless its only purpose is to plug in a phone charger or some such. The USB port has power (5 volts) and ground terminals and data terminals, all of which are typically connected to the radio on the vehicle.
Cable Problems
The issue could also be with the cable you used to connect the entertainment system to the USB port. It might be worn out, kinked, or torn, rendering it unable to connect or transfer data.
Check your cable (if you can access it) and ensure it’s firmly connected to the device and the port. Sometimes, fixing the issue is as easy as adjusting the cable. If that doesn’t work, examine it for kinks and damage. Replace it if necessary.
If you’re using multiple cables, make sure you’re using the right one for your device. Some cables only serve one function, be it charging or data transfer.
Unconfigured Settings
If it’s the first time you plugged in the device that won’t work, you might need to adjust its settings. Some devices need to be set up after connecting to your car’s USB port. Most send a prompt to indicate the need for configuration.
The configuration is usually just a matter of indicating whether you’re charging or transferring data. It’s also worth noting that some older devices might not be compatible with newer vehicle models.
Outdated Firmware
If you’re unfamiliar with firmware, it’s a specific type of software that’s closely tied to hardware. It’s essentially a set of codes programmed into hardware devices, such as smartphones. It controls the device’s components, like how a camera processes images and the like.
Due to this, outdated firmware can sever the connection between your device and the USB port. The worst-case scenario is the port won’t even recognize the device. Some OEM radios will need to be initialized to activate remote USB ports that are part of the vehicle’s original equipment.
Some OEM radios will need to be initialized to activate remote USB ports that are part of the vehicle’s original equipment.
–Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician
In some cases, connecting the system to the internet and installing updates will fix this issue.
Dirt and Debris Buildup
Dust and debris can clog the port, hindering the connection between your device and the USB port. Fortunately, this issue is easy to fix.
You can clean the port using small non-metallic objects like a toothpick or a Q-tip, but be careful. Using too much force can damage the port. Using compressed air to blow out the dust and dirt also works.
Damaged Port
The USB port can accumulate natural wear from all the times you’ve used it. One way to confirm this is to try different cables and devices to see if any of them work. If none connects, then you might have a damaged USB port.
The only solution for this problem is to take your car to an auto shop for USB port replacement. The price range differs depending on the shop, but generally, it could set you back between $20 and $300, depending on the year, make, and model of your vehicle.
How to Replace a Faulty Car USB
If you’re confident with your auto repair know-how, you can replace the faulty USB port on your own. You’ll need a new USB port, a screwdriver, and electrical tape. The process usually involves the steps below:
- Step 1: Disconnect the battery by unbolting the cables to prevent electrical shocks. Remove the negative terminal first (black wire), then do the same thing with the positive terminal.
- Step 2: Unscrew the damaged USB port using a screwdriver. Some models use pins, which you’ll have to push and lift before taking the port out.
- Step 3: Disconnect the port’s wires and set them aside. Make sure you remember where each wire goes to make it easier to connect the new USB port.
- Step 4: Install the replacement port by connecting the wires you previously disconnected. Use electrical tape or wire connectors for safety purposes.
- Step 5: Reconnect the battery and turn your car on. Check if everything’s working as intended.
Final Thoughts
The USB port has become an integral part of modern vehicles. If you depend on it a lot, don’t put off fixing or replacing it when it develops issues.
Some possible reasons why the port isn’t working include a blown fuse, cable problems, unconfigured device settings, outdated firmware, built-up debris, and port damage.
You can take your vehicle to an auto repair shop if you’re unable to find what’s causing the issue.
Where to Get a High-Quality USB Port Cover for Your Vehicle
A car USB port is prone to damage, so it’s best to protect it using covers when it’s not in use. A USB port cover does wonders in keeping the USB port functional. Lucky for you, CarParts.com has available USB port covers!
Besides USB port covers, we have a great selection of parts and accessories designed to fit your vehicle’s form and function, taking the guesswork out of finding compatible products for your car, truck, or SUV.
It’ll only take a few minutes to find everything you need. Simply enter your vehicle’s specifications into our vehicle selector to start browsing direct-fit products for your ride. You can also use the search filters to shop for parts according to your preferred brand, price range, quantity, and more.
Order now, and we’ll deliver the parts you need straight to your doorstep in as fast as two business days. Don’t miss out on the best deals on the market, and shop now!
Keep Reading: Related Posts
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
