JBL speakers can occasionally refuse to shut down even after holding down the power button. Here are some ways to solve this issue:
- Exit Wired or Service mode as this prevents shutdown. Connect your charger to your speaker and hold the Bluetooth and play button for at least 10 seconds.
- Initiate a factory reset. Generally, this is done by holding down the power and play button at the same time for 10-15 seconds. This should turn off your speaker. Refer to your speaker’s manual for its specific factory reset method.
- Clean your speaker’s buttons. Buttons like power, Bluetooth pairing, etc. could be stuck, making the speaker stay on.
- Update the speaker firmware. There could be a firmware bug causing the power issue. Download new firmware from JBL's website and update.
As a last resort, contact JBL customer support or reach out to your JBL store. They can offer specific troubleshooting tips or potential repairs if needed. However, before doing that, it’s best to test all potential fixes:
Fixing a JBL Speaker that Won’t Turn Off
JBL speakers are widely known for their powerful sound and sleek designs. However, like any electronic device, they can sometimes encounter technical issues.
There are many potential reasons why a JBL speaker won't turn off. Typical reasons include:
- Your speaker is on Wired or Service mode (the most common reason).
- The power button is stuck
- Software bug needs a factory reset
- Firmware needs updating
- Physical hardware issue
If your JBL speaker refuses to power off, this can cause battery issues and indicate software and hardware problems.
Fortunately, there are a variety of troubleshooting methods you can try to get your JBL speaker working properly again:
1. Exit Wired or Service mode
Some JBL speakers have Wired or Service modes which can be accidentally turned on by pressing and holding the Bluetooth or Play button. These modes can often prevent the speaker from powering off.
To exit Wired or Service mode, simply connect your charger to your speaker and hold the Bluetooth and play button for at least 10 seconds. You can also exit this mode by pressing the power and play button at the same time.
2. Factory reset your speaker
If the buttons seem functional, your speaker may just need a reset. Consult the user manual to find the factory reset instructions for your specific JBL model.
The reset process allows you to clear any bugs in the software that could be preventing normal power-down. Here are two ways how to general ways to factory reset a JBL speaker:
- Press the power button 5-8 times and then hold it for 10-15 seconds.
- Press and hold the power and play button at the same time for 10-15 seconds.
- Press and hold the power button, “+” (volume increase) button, and play/pause button at the same time for at least 10-15 seconds.
3. Clean the buttons
Your JBL speaker’s buttons may be clogged with debris and detritus after a long time. This can cause your power button to be unresponsive, causing your speaker to remain on when trying to turn it off.
Here are a few ways to clean your JBL speaker’s buttons:
- Use compressed air to blow out any dust or debris that may be stuck in the power button. Point the nozzle directly into the button and give a few short blasts.
- Use a soft bristle toothbrush dampened with isopropyl alcohol to gently scrub around the power button opening. This can dislodge sticky substances or buildup.
- Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and rotate it around the power button to clean the crevices. Be sure not to leave any cotton fibers behind.
- If dirt is trapped deeper in the button mechanism, use a can of electrical contact cleaner sprayed into the power button opening. Press the button a few times while spraying to fully clean it.
- As a last resort, a general household cleaner like Windex can be sprayed onto a cloth and used to wipe down the surface around the stuck power button.
After cleaning the power button area thoroughly, try pressing it repeatedly to free up the mechanism. If the button is severely damaged, replacement may be necessary. But in most cases, a good deep clean will have that power button working again in no time
Note: For certain models, you may need to remove the cover with special tools to thoroughly clean the buttons’ mechanism. For a video on how to do it check out a youtube tutorial here.
4. Update the firmware
If you have a speaker from the JBL Flip, Charge, or Xtreme model series, then you may need a firmware update to clear out any software bugs or glitches that are preventing your JBL speaker from powering off.
JBL periodically releases firmware patches and upgrades for their speakers to squash bugs and optimize performance. If your speaker has outdated firmware, it could be the reason for the power issue.
Here’s a video on how to update your firmware:
5. Contact JBL support
If you’ve tried all the tips and fixes you can find, it may be time to contact JBL customer support or bring this issue up to your store. They can provide tailored assistance for your specific speaker and warranty options if repairs are needed.
To do this, contact JBL support through one of the following methods:
- Call JBL's customer service line at (800) 336-4525 to speak with a representative about your speaker issue. Have your model number, purchase date, and the troubleshooting steps you’ve tried ready to be provided.
- Initiate a live chat with JBL's support team on their online customer service. Click the link and click the "Live Chat" to start a conversation.
- Visit a local JBL-authorized service/repair center or retailer. Bring your speaker in and ask for assistance or potential repair options.
Be sure to provide them with details on your speaker model, purchase date, and the troubleshooting fixes you’ve already attempted. This way, you can help resolve your speaker’s problem efficiently.