Having problems with your Apple AirPods Max? Use this diagnostic guide to quickly identify common issues and see the most likely causes. Each section shows you what might be wrong and the part or repair that typically fixes it.
If you’re comfortable with DIY repairs, you can order the parts directly. Not sure or don’t want to risk it? You can also send your AirPods Max in for professional repair.
🔋 Battery Issues
Battery not charging past 1%
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Likely cause: Battery failure
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Solution: Replace the AirPods Max Battery
AirPods Max only work when charging cable is plugged in
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Likely cause: Battery replacement needed
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Solution: AirPods Max Battery Replacement Service
🎧 Audio Issues
No sound (left or right side)
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Likely causes:
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Speaker Driver failure (common issue)
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Speaker Flex Ribbon damage
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Solution: Replace AirPods Max Speaker Driver or send for Speaker Repair
Static noise in the left or right ear
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Likely cause: Speaker Housing issue
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Solution: Replace Speaker Housing
🔊 Bluetooth, Transparency, and ANC Issues
Connects to Bluetooth but no Transparency or Noise Cancellation
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Likely cause: Left or Right Speaker Housing
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Solution: AirPods Max Housing Replacement
Stuck in Pairing Mode
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Likely cause: Bluetooth Board
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Solution: Replace Bluetooth Board
When charging, white/amber light goes into pairing mode and cuts out repeatedly
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Likely cause: Bluetooth Board issue
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Solution: AirPods Max Bluetooth Repair
⚡ Power Issues
No power at all
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Likely cause: Power Board failure
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Solution: Replace Power Board
When charging, headphones reset but do not enter pairing mode
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Possible causes:
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Bluetooth Board
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Power Board
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Right Headband Jack (common cause)
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Left Headband Jack (common cause)
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🧪 Special Powerboard Diagnostic Test
If your AirPods Max are unresponsive, try this test:
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Plug in the charging cable.
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Press the button on your AirPods Max.
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Watch the red light:
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If the light flickers before going dead → Defective Power Board.
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If the light stays on and slowly fades away → Defective Power Board.
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⚠️ Important: Always inspect the headband jacks first. Even the slightest damage to the headband end plugs can cause the headphones to malfunction.
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Solution: Inspect or Replace Headband Jacks