Charge 5 is dead and unresponsive

[WolfPackMac]

Fitbit Charge 5 worked up until yesterday midday (Nov. 12, 2024. Was charged to over 50% but started showing blue logo that would flash every 10 seconds. I have done everything suggested in the Forums to recover, and none have worked. This included an old trick (suggested) regarding placing in the freezer to restart the chip. Now, it is dead.

I have been a loyal Fitbit user since 2015. Many models + upgrades. One previous model died and was forced to upgrade. Most, I just wanted upgrade. The Charge 5 favorite thus far. Google upgrades caused sync issues a few months ago, but was fixed (and w/help from online tech). Charge 5 now dead. Reason to continue with Fitbit is needed.

Moderator Edit: Clarified subject

[LizzyFitbit]

Hi there, @WolfPackMac.

I'm sorry that you've gone through this situation, and thanks for the steps tried as well as your loyalty toward Fitbit. While you mentioned that your Charge 5 is dead, may I know if you see a green light on the back or if you feel a vibration when pressing the button?

If not, even though you've tried some steps, please give a try to the following in the given order:

1. Clean the contacts of your Charge 5 and charging cable.
2. Try a different USB port or a UL-certified wall charger.
3. Make sure you use the charging cable that came with your device, and check the alignment between your device and charging cable.
4. Restart your tracker to refresh its performance.
5. Leave your device plugged into the charging cable for at least 30 minutes.

[WolfPackMac]

I tried all that.

I reluctantly purchased a new Charge 6, albeit with reservation over the
issues you've had with the app and how it has affected my ability to use
the tracker. I like the 6, but all I can do is use it to track steps right
now for all practical purposes. Your app is worthless. It cuts the top
off things and doesn't sync calories and foods well. I've stopped
trying to use it and cancelled my premium membership.

The fact that I and hundreds of others cannot track items properly with the
app for over a month now since the Google update is appalling and should be
an embarrassment for Google. It isn't. I am beyond disappointed in your
company. Over a month! It tells me that your products and services have
become unreliable, and that is disappointing. I really don't think Google
cares anymore...got our money and that's that I suppose. With all due
respect, perhaps if the Feds make Google sell Chrome or the search engine
as I've read, the company may be forced to focus on quality again.

I've been a loyal Fitbit user and customer since 2015. Fool me once,
lesson learned. Fool me twice, that's on me I guess. I won't be fooled
again.

Sincerely,
Jeff McDaris

[LizzyFitbit]

Hi there, @WolfPackMac.

Thanks for your thoughtful post. I understand where you're coming from about having this experience and I apologize for the inconvenience this has caused. Our team is constantly working to enhance our products and the input we receive from all our members is a big part of the process.

I'd like to clarify that the issue with the top of the food screen has been fixed with a new Fitbit app version. If you haven't done so, please install it on your phone to check if everything looks good on your end. Regarding your other reports, I'd encourage you to share them in a different thread so we can prevent any confusion and so you can receive more assistance.

Once again, I appreciate your feedback and please know that you're always welcome back to the Fitbit family if you change your mind.

[Rnjhall92]

I have the same issue. I let my fitbit run out of battery and now nothing i can do will turn it on. Ive left it on the charger for hours,  cleaned the device, cleaned the charger, tried different outlets, did all the repetitive button pushing, etc, but no signs of life at any point. Any other ideas?

[Jenis1407]

Charge 5 is trash . Fitbit is not helpful either. We all know the issue with fitbit charge 5 getting bricked after the update. Same happened to me . Not turning on . Customer service won't help. All they say is we are sorry to hear this . They say it is out of warranty so we cannot replace. But to begin with this issue is Fitbit's issue. Bad software updates is the reason for my bricked watch. Will never buy this brand again. Complete waste of money. My case is still open and I know they would not help 

[rawlins02]

Mine died yesterday while swimming. Purchased 15 months ago. I called support, and a rep had me clean it, attempt to restart it, try charging in a different USB cable, etc. Nothing will revive it. Was offered 50% off purchase of a new one, but the discount must be used on the Google store applied to full retail price. Fitbits are discounted by 25% right now, so effectively just another 25% off.