Power & battery
iPod says "Please wait, very low battery"
Stuck on "Please wait, very low battery", or a battery picture with an exclamation point? Pick what happens and your model to see what it means and what to do.
What exactly happens?
Which iPod do you have?
Most common causes, by model
Also searched as please wait very low battery · very low battery · please wait low battery · please wait very low battery fix · very low battery please wait · low battery · stuck on very low battery · stuck on low battery screen · says please wait very low battery · low battery screen · stuck on please wait very low battery · stuck on low battery · says very low battery please wait · says please wait low battery · says low battery connect to power · keeps saying very low battery
The battery is too empty for the iPod to start. Leave it on the charger for at least 30 minutes: on the iPod Classic (6th and 7th Gen), iPod Video, iPod Photo and iPod Mini 2nd Gen, Apple says a very empty battery can need up to 30 minutes before the iPod starts. If the message stays or comes back, the battery is worn out, or the charging port or the logic board is not letting it charge.
Free checks first
- Leave it on the charger for at least 30 minutes: a very empty battery has to charge before the iPod can start.
- Charge it from a USB wall charger, or from a USB port on the computer itself (not the keyboard), with the computer on and awake.
- Generic or incompatible wall chargers don't always give the iPod the right voltage: Apple's A1070 wall charger works with every model except the 3rd Gen (which charges only from its FireWire charger) and is the ideal choice.
- On the 4th Gen we strongly recommend charging from a wall charger, such as Apple's A1070.
- On the 3rd Gen, charge from a FireWire charger or a 6-pin FireWire port on a computer that is on and awake: its USB cable syncs but never charges it.
iPod Classic (A1238) very low batteryiPod Classic 6th Gen (A1238) very low batteryiPod Classic 7th Gen (A1238) very low battery
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
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Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Classic 6th Gen
Thin · Thick
Replacement Battery (160GB)
For the iPod Classic 7th Gen
Step-by-step guide iPod Classic 6th/7th Gen battery replacement (13 steps)
-
Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 6th Gen
2007 · Late 2008
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 7th Gen
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 6th Gen
2007 · Late 2008
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 7th Gen
iPod Video (A1136) very low batteryiPod Video 5th Gen (A1136) very low battery
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
-
Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Step-by-step guide iPod Video 5th Gen battery replacement (10 steps)
-
Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
30GB 5G · 30GB 5.5G Enhanced · 60GB 5G · 80GB 5.5G Enhanced
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
30GB 5G · 30GB 5.5G Enhanced · 60GB 5G · 80GB 5.5G Enhanced
iPod 4th Gen or iPod Photo (A1059 and A1099) very low batteryiPod 4th Gen (A1059) very low batteryiPod Photo (A1099) very low battery
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
-
Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery (All Capacities)
For the iPod 4th Gen
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Photo
Step-by-step guide iPod 4th Gen and iPod Photo battery replacement (13 steps)
-
Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod 4th Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Photo
Late 2004 to early 2005 · Mid-2005
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod 4th Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Photo
Late 2004 to early 2005 · Mid-2005
iPod Mini (A1051) very low batteryiPod Mini 1st Gen (A1051) very low batteryiPod Mini 2nd Gen (A1051) very low battery
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
-
Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
Step-by-step guide iPod Mini 1st/2nd Gen battery replacement (12 steps)
-
Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. On the Mini, tiny parts next to the dock connector can also catch and snap off as the board slides in or out of the case during a repair. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
iPod 3rd Gen (A1040) very low batteryiPod 3rd Gen (A1040) very low battery
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
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Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully from a FireWire charger or a 6-pin FireWire port on a computer that is on and awake: its USB cable syncs but never charges it. Then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery (All Capacities)
Step-by-step guide iPod 3rd Gen battery replacement (14 steps)
-
Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
More causes on this page, depending on what happens
5 causes, listed by what happens to your iPod
- Failing hard driveSad face very low battery · not on the iPod Classic or iPod Mini
- Loose or damaged hard drive cableSad face very low battery · not on the iPod Classic
- Failed microdrive (the Mini's hard drive)Sad face very low battery · iPod Mini only
- A connector not seated after the repairStarted after a repair or part swap
- Battery connector torn off the logic boardStarted after a repair or part swap · iPod Classic and iPod Video only
Battery symbol with exclamation point
Also searched as battery with exclamation point · battery exclamation point
The screen shows a battery picture with an exclamation point. This is the low-battery screen: leave it on the charger for at least 30 minutes (3rd Gen: FireWire charger). If it comes back: the battery, then the charging port or the logic board.
iPod Classic 6th and 7th GeniPod Classic 6th GeniPod Classic 7th Gen
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
-
Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Classic 6th Gen
Thin · Thick
Replacement Battery (160GB)
For the iPod Classic 7th Gen
Step-by-step guide iPod Classic 6th/7th Gen battery replacement (13 steps)
-
Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 6th Gen
2007 · Late 2008
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 7th Gen
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 6th Gen
2007 · Late 2008
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 7th Gen
iPod Video 5th GeniPod Video 5th Gen
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
-
Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Step-by-step guide iPod Video 5th Gen battery replacement (10 steps)
-
Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
30GB 5G · 30GB 5.5G Enhanced · 60GB 5G · 80GB 5.5G Enhanced
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
30GB 5G · 30GB 5.5G Enhanced · 60GB 5G · 80GB 5.5G Enhanced
iPod 4th Gen and iPod PhotoiPod 4th GeniPod Photo
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
-
Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery (All Capacities)
For the iPod 4th Gen
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Photo
Step-by-step guide iPod 4th Gen and iPod Photo battery replacement (13 steps)
-
Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod 4th Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Photo
Late 2004 to early 2005 · Mid-2005
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod 4th Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Photo
Late 2004 to early 2005 · Mid-2005
iPod Mini 1st and 2nd GeniPod Mini 1st GeniPod Mini 2nd Gen
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
-
Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
Step-by-step guide iPod Mini 1st/2nd Gen battery replacement (12 steps)
-
Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. On the Mini, tiny parts next to the dock connector can also catch and snap off as the board slides in or out of the case during a repair. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
iPod 3rd GeniPod 3rd Gen
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
-
Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully from a FireWire charger or a 6-pin FireWire port on a computer that is on and awake: its USB cable syncs but never charges it. Then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery (All Capacities)
Step-by-step guide iPod 3rd Gen battery replacement (14 steps)
-
Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
Sad face very low battery
The sad face always points to the hard drive or its cable. The very low battery message points to the battery or the logic board.
Free checks first
- If it still shows up on a computer, copy your music off before anything else (copy the whole iPod_Control folder to keep more than the songs); if it clicks or drops off the computer while copying, stop and get it diagnosed.
- Hold the iPod up to your ear: unusual clicking patterns are a strong sign that the hard drive is failing.
- Check the hard drive's health in Diagnostic Mode: on a healthy drive the reallocated sectors (reallocs) and pending sectors read zero or close to it. A high number, or numbers that rise each time you check, mean the drive is failing; pending sectors are the sharper warning.
iPod Classic 6th and 7th GeniPod Classic 6th GeniPod Classic 7th Gen
Free diagnostic: we tell you what it needs before any work
Not sure what is causing it on this model? Send it for a free diagnostic and we tell you what it needs before any work. Free diagnosticFree diagnostic for the iPod Classic 6th GenFree diagnostic for the iPod Classic 7th Gen
iPod Video 5th GeniPod Video 5th Gen
Most likely: Failing hard driveNext: Loose or damaged hard drive cable · 2 more causes
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Most likely
Failing hard drive
Repeated clicking (the click of death: click, click, whir, or grinding) or the sad iPod face usually mean the hard drive is failing. A failed drive is the ideal time for a flash upgrade: flash storage has no heads, platters or motor, so the clicking, stalling and seizing that end an old hard drive can't happen. If your old drive still reads, add our music transfer ($149) and we copy everything on it onto the new flash storage.
Flash Mod Service (installed by iMods)
Replaces the hard drive with flash memory: silent, no moving parts
Step-by-step guide iPod Video 5th Gen hard drive replacement (14 steps)
-
Next most likely
Loose or damaged hard drive cable
A loose or damaged hard drive cable can make the drive click, drop out or show the sad iPod face. Unless the problem started after a repair, the cable itself is rarely the fault on the iPod Video: if the hard drive isn't to blame, the logic board is just as likely as the cable.
Free check first Push the cable back in first; replace it only if that does not help.
-
Also possible
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Step-by-step guide iPod Video 5th Gen battery replacement (10 steps)
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
30GB 5G · 30GB 5.5G Enhanced · 60GB 5G · 80GB 5.5G Enhanced
iPod 4th Gen and iPod PhotoiPod 4th GeniPod Photo
Most likely: Loose or damaged hard drive cableNext: Failing hard drive · 2 more causes
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Most likely
Loose or damaged hard drive cable
On the 4th Gen and Photo, an iPod that seems too weak to spin up its hard drive often has a hard drive cable problem. A loose or damaged hard drive cable can make the drive click, drop out or show the sad iPod face. A cable fault sounds like click, whir; a failing drive sounds more like click, click, whir.
Free check first Clean the hard drive cable's contacts with 99% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and re-seat it first; if that fails, it's likely a bad hard drive (our Hard Drive Repair Service is probably the best first option).
Hard Drive IDE Ribbon Cable
For the iPod Photo
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Next most likely
Failing hard drive
Repeated clicking (the click of death: click, click, whir, or grinding) or the sad iPod face usually mean the hard drive is failing. Flash storage is the silent alternative to a new drive. On the 4th Gen and Photo we can often fix the hard drive without replacing it, and in most cases all songs are saved.
Hard Drive Repair Service
For the iPod 4th Gen
Mail it in: we repair your drive, and in most cases your songs are saved
Hard Drive Repair Service
For the iPod Photo
Mail it in: we repair your drive, and in most cases your songs are saved
Replacement Hard Drive
For the iPod 4th Gen
20GB · 40GB
Flash Mod Service (installed by iMods)
For the iPod 4th Gen
Replaces the hard drive with flash memory: silent, no moving parts
Replacement Hard Drive
For the iPod Photo
20GB · 30GB · 40GB · 60GB
Flash Mod Service (installed by iMods)
For the iPod Photo
Replaces the hard drive with flash memory: silent, no moving parts
Step-by-step guide iPod 4th Gen and iPod Photo hard drive replacement (12 steps)
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Also possible
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery (All Capacities)
For the iPod 4th Gen
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Photo
Step-by-step guide iPod 4th Gen and iPod Photo battery replacement (13 steps)
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod 4th Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Photo
Late 2004 to early 2005 · Mid-2005
iPod Mini 1st and 2nd GeniPod Mini 1st GeniPod Mini 2nd Gen
Most likely: Failed microdrive (the Mini's hard drive)Next: Loose or damaged hard drive cable · 2 more causes
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Most likely
Failed microdrive (the Mini's hard drive)
When the Mini's tiny hard drive (the microdrive) fails, it shows the sad iPod face or a folder icon, or makes clicking noises. Replace it with a used original microdrive, or upgrade to flash: a failed drive is the ideal time for it. Flash storage has no heads, platters or motor, so the clicking, stalling and seizing that end an old hard drive can't happen. If your old drive still reads, add our music transfer ($149) and we copy everything on it onto the new flash storage.
Replacement Microdrive (4GB)
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Flash Mod Service (installed by iMods)
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Replaces the hard drive with flash memory: silent, no moving parts
Replacement Microdrive
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
4GB · 6GB
Flash Mod Service (installed by iMods)
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
Replaces the hard drive with flash memory: silent, no moving parts
Step-by-step guide iPod Mini 1st/2nd Gen hard drive (Microdrive) replacement (13 steps)
-
Next most likely
Loose or damaged hard drive cable
A loose or damaged hard drive cable can make the drive click, drop out or show the sad iPod face. Unless the problem started after a repair, the cable itself is rarely the fault on the Mini: if the microdrive isn't to blame, the logic board is just as likely as the cable.
Free check first Push the cable back in first; replace it only if that does not help.
Hard Drive Cable
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Hard Drive Ribbon Cable
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
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Also possible
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
Step-by-step guide iPod Mini 1st/2nd Gen battery replacement (12 steps)
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
iPod 3rd GeniPod 3rd Gen
Most likely: Failing hard driveNext: Loose or damaged hard drive cable · 2 more causes
-
Most likely
Failing hard drive
Repeated clicking (the click of death: click, click, whir, or grinding) or the sad iPod face usually mean the hard drive is failing. A failed drive is the ideal time for a flash upgrade: flash storage has no heads, platters or motor, so the clicking, stalling and seizing that end an old hard drive can't happen. If your old drive still reads, add our music transfer ($149) and we copy everything on it onto the new flash storage.
Replacement Hard Drive
10GB · 15GB · 20GB · 30GB · 40GB
Flash Mod Service (installed by iMods)
Replaces the hard drive with flash memory: silent, no moving parts
Step-by-step guide iPod 3rd Gen hard drive replacement (14 steps)
-
Next most likely
Loose or damaged hard drive cable
A loose or damaged hard drive cable can make the drive click, drop out or show the sad iPod face. Unless the problem started after a repair, the cable itself is rarely the fault on the 3rd Gen: if the hard drive isn't to blame, the logic board is just as likely as the cable.
Free check first Push the cable back in first; replace it only if that does not help.
Hard Drive IDE Ribbon Cable
-
Also possible
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully from a FireWire charger or a 6-pin FireWire port on a computer that is on and awake: its USB cable syncs but never charges it. Then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery (All Capacities)
Step-by-step guide iPod 3rd Gen battery replacement (14 steps)
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
Stuck on charging please wait
Also searched as charging please wait · says charging please wait · charging please wait when plugged in · keeps saying charging please wait · charging please wait solution
The screen says "Charging, please wait" and stays there. If it doesn't move on even after hours on the charger, the battery is worn out, or the charging port or the logic board is not letting it charge.
Free checks first
- Apple: if a "Charging, Please Wait" or "Connect to Power" message appears, the battery needs to be charged before the iPod can connect to your computer.
- Leave it on the charger for at least 30 minutes: a very empty battery has to charge before the iPod can start.
- Charge it from a USB wall charger, or from a USB port on the computer itself (not the keyboard), with the computer on and awake.
- On the 3rd Gen, charge from a FireWire charger or a 6-pin FireWire port on a computer that is on and awake: its USB cable syncs but never charges it.
iPod Classic 6th and 7th GeniPod Classic 6th GeniPod Classic 7th Gen
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
-
Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Classic 6th Gen
Thin · Thick
Replacement Battery (160GB)
For the iPod Classic 7th Gen
Step-by-step guide iPod Classic 6th/7th Gen battery replacement (13 steps)
-
Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 6th Gen
2007 · Late 2008
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 7th Gen
-
Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 6th Gen
2007 · Late 2008
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 7th Gen
iPod Video 5th GeniPod Video 5th Gen
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
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Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Step-by-step guide iPod Video 5th Gen battery replacement (10 steps)
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Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
30GB 5G · 30GB 5.5G Enhanced · 60GB 5G · 80GB 5.5G Enhanced
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Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
30GB 5G · 30GB 5.5G Enhanced · 60GB 5G · 80GB 5.5G Enhanced
iPod 4th Gen and iPod PhotoiPod 4th GeniPod Photo
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
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Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery (All Capacities)
For the iPod 4th Gen
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Photo
Step-by-step guide iPod 4th Gen and iPod Photo battery replacement (13 steps)
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Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod 4th Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Photo
Late 2004 to early 2005 · Mid-2005
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Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod 4th Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Photo
Late 2004 to early 2005 · Mid-2005
iPod Mini 1st and 2nd GeniPod Mini 1st GeniPod Mini 2nd Gen
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
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Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully, then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Replacement Battery
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
Step-by-step guide iPod Mini 1st/2nd Gen battery replacement (12 steps)
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Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. On the Mini, tiny parts next to the dock connector can also catch and snap off as the board slides in or out of the case during a repair. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
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Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 1st Gen
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Mini 2nd Gen
iPod 3rd GeniPod 3rd Gen
Most likely: Worn-out batteryNext: Damaged charging port · 1 more cause
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Most likely
Worn-out battery
An old battery wears out: it no longer takes or holds a full charge, empties fast, or dies as soon as you unplug it. A new battery is the usual fix.
Free check first Charge it fully from a FireWire charger or a 6-pin FireWire port on a computer that is on and awake: its USB cable syncs but never charges it. Then unplug it: if it empties much faster than it used to, or dies as soon as it is unplugged, the battery is most likely worn out.
Replacement Battery (All Capacities)
Step-by-step guide iPod 3rd Gen battery replacement (14 steps)
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Next most likely
Damaged charging port
A damaged charging port stops power from getting in. We fix it by replacing the whole logic board. Rather than solder on an inferior aftermarket part (a third-party charging port), we fit an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Free check first Look at the pins in the dock connector for signs of corrosion from liquid, bent pins or other damage, and try another cable and charger.
Replacement Logic Board
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Also possible
Charging circuit on the logic board
If a new battery and a working charger and cable don't help, the charging circuit on the logic board is the likely fault. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Replacement Logic Board
Started after a repair or part swap
It shows the low battery message after a battery or part swap.
iPod Classic 6th and 7th GeniPod Classic 6th GeniPod Classic 7th Gen
Most likely: A connector not seated after the repairNext: Battery connector torn off the logic board
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Most likely
A connector not seated after the repair
After a battery or part swap, a connector that is not fully seated can leave the iPod dead or half-working. We can also look at it: the free diagnostic finds the issue and whether it can be fixed without new parts.
Free check first Open it again and push every connector you touched fully back in.
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Next most likely
Battery connector torn off the logic board
In a battery swap the battery's connector can tear off the logic board, and then the iPod is dead, or runs only while plugged in. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Free check first Open it and look where the battery cable plugs into the logic board: if the connector has come off the board, our fix is a new logic board. Instead of soldering on an inferior aftermarket connector, we replace the whole board with an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 6th Gen
2007 · Late 2008
Replacement Logic Board
For the iPod Classic 7th Gen
iPod Video 5th GeniPod Video 5th Gen
Most likely: A connector not seated after the repairNext: Battery connector torn off the logic board
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Most likely
A connector not seated after the repair
After a battery or part swap, a connector that is not fully seated can leave the iPod dead or half-working. We can also look at it: the free diagnostic finds the issue and whether it can be fixed without new parts.
Free check first Open it again and push every connector you touched fully back in.
-
Next most likely
Battery connector torn off the logic board
In a battery swap the battery's connector can tear off the logic board, and then the iPod is dead, or runs only while plugged in. We fix it by replacing the logic board.
Free check first Open it and look where the battery cable plugs into the logic board: if the connector has come off the board, our fix is a new logic board. Instead of soldering on an inferior aftermarket connector, we replace the whole board with an original Apple logic board to ensure the highest quality repair.
Replacement Logic Board
30GB 5G · 30GB 5.5G Enhanced · 60GB 5G · 80GB 5.5G Enhanced
iPod 4th Gen and iPod PhotoiPod 4th GeniPod Photo
Most likely: A connector not seated after the repair
-
Most likely
A connector not seated after the repair
After a battery or part swap, a connector that is not fully seated can leave the iPod dead or half-working. We can also look at it: the free diagnostic finds the issue and whether it can be fixed without new parts.
Free check first Open it again and push every connector you touched fully back in.
iPod Mini 1st and 2nd GeniPod Mini 1st GeniPod Mini 2nd Gen
Most likely: A connector not seated after the repair
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Most likely
A connector not seated after the repair
After a battery or part swap, a connector that is not fully seated can leave the iPod dead or half-working. We can also look at it: the free diagnostic finds the issue and whether it can be fixed without new parts.
Free check first Open it again and push every connector you touched fully back in.
iPod 3rd GeniPod 3rd Gen
Most likely: A connector not seated after the repair
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Most likely
A connector not seated after the repair
After a battery or part swap, a connector that is not fully seated can leave the iPod dead or half-working. We can also look at it: the free diagnostic finds the issue and whether it can be fixed without new parts.
Free check first Open it again and push every connector you touched fully back in.
Not sure — free diagnostic
Mail us your iPod and we test it and send you a free repair quote. If you don't like the price, we ship it back at our expense.
Free
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