Charge 3 won't sync to phone

[ArubaSue]

I was having syncing issues and I followed all the various instructions for restarting the fitbit, turning Bluetooth and the phone on/off, etc. I uninstalled and reinstalled the device. Now I am getting repeat messages "Unable to connect to Charge 3. Error connecting with Charge 3. Please make sure your Fitbit is nearby and powered on and then please try again." It is also flashing between this notice and the  "clocks" screen. Any advice is appreciated. 

Moderator edit: updated subject for clarity

[RiseAndShine]

@ArubaSue, sorry to hear about it... When you reinstall the Fitbit app, did you use 'set up a Device' option in Fitbit app or was trying to connect via phone BT settings? If letter - this is not going to work... Also, when trying to connect, please make sure there are no other BT devices nearby. Please, let us know how it goes!

[ArubaSue]

I did use "set up device" in the app. I also disabled all other BT connections before I reinstalled.

Also, after set up, I get a screen that is something like "Fitbit app needs to make connection" (or something like that) and the circle is going. You can click ok and close the window. The circle never seems to "stop" as though it is still connecting - ?

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@RiseAndShine wrote:

@ArubaSue, sorry to hear about it... When you reinstall the Fitbit app, did you use 'set up a Device' option in Fitbit app or was trying to connect via phone BT settings? If letter - this is not going to work... Also, when trying to connect, please make sure there are no other BT devices nearby. Please, let us know how it goes!

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[MarreFitbit]

Welcome on board @ArubaSue, it's nice to see you around here! Thanks for taking the time to troubleshoot this syncing inconvenience. Nice way to go!

While reading your post, my first thought is that your Charge 3 might be no longer paired to your Fitbit account and that's why it's not syncing or connecting to your phone's Bluetooth. In order to solve this, please go to the Bluetooth settings on your phone and remove the tracker. In the list of Bluetooth devices you'll see the Charge 3 and next to it, this symbol "!". Hit the symbol and it will take you to the next step, once you're there select the option that says "Forget this device".

Once you've made sure about that, go back to the Fitbit app, go to the "Account" option in the upper right corner and select "Set up a Device". This should start the setup process for your device. 

If your phone is managing multiple Bluetooth connections simultaneously:

• Your Fitbit device might stop syncing or stop receiving notifications.
• You can experience interruptions with any consistently streaming Bluetooth connection such as headsets, car kits, stereo audio, tethering, and file transfers.

These interruptions are typically caused by operating system and Bluetooth limitations. It's also possible that an app on your phone is causing the issue.

Thanks for letting us know what has worked for you @RiseAndShine.  Great to hear you're back on track!

I'll be around if you need further assistance!

[ArubaSue]

I only have only device (Charge 3) listed as a Bluetooth paired device. In Connections/Bluetooth I have a gear/settings icon with the Charge 3 but no !

[MarreFitbit]

Hi @ArubaSue! Thanks for getting back and for letting me know you only have Charge 3 listed as a Bluetooth paired device. 

Would you mind sending me a screenshot showing that part on your phone's Bluetooth settings? Also, I was wondering if you've made sure that the mobile device you're syncing with is included in our list of supported devices? If you're not sure, please see: Which phones and tablets can I use with my Fitbit watch or tracker?

Looking forward to your reply!  

[ArubaSue]

Will provide a screen shot later.

My Galaxy S8 is saying my Fitbit is paired but it also says no Bluetooth connections are found.

In order to get it to sync I need to go through multiple force stop, bluetooth on/off, restart app, restart fitbit and restart phone. Right now it says I have zero steps today.

Now the app says I have 969 steps today but my fitbit says 2300+. But the last sync was 9:52 pm yesterday.

Starting to regret this purchase.

[MarreFitbit]

Thanks for following the troubleshooting steps provided @ArubaSue! I've created a case to get you in contact with our Support team about this. They will be able to work with you and review your options. Please keep a lookout in your inbox to the email address associated with this Fitbit account. Someone will be in contact with you soon! 

Let me know if you have any questions! 

[ArubaSue]

Thank you!

[ArubaSue]

Thanks for your suggestion.

I was contacted by customer support for how to (hopefully) correct the problem. It did once but not again. Happily they are sending me a replacement device. Hoping for better results!

[SunsetRunner]

I had a similar syncing problem.  Received new device, and it repeatedly stops syncing with my phone.  It's frustrating to say the least.  I shouldn't have to troubleshoot this thing every few days.

[Mako1964]

I, am having this problem too. Except I can not move all my BT devices far away ..to sync.( 1 is my pacemaker and 1 an internal pump. So is this dropping or non-syncing going to happen everytime I charge? This wasnt an issue until I updated my charge3. I can not keep asking people to come over to sync my charge3. Help?

[Melly12]

My Fitbit has just started to do the exact same thing. This is the fourth Fitbit charge 3 I’ve had & if this does not resolve itself then I’m binning Fitbit watches completely as I’m fed up of them working for so long then failing. Very annoying, frustrating & personally I think Fitbit should stop selling these watches until they get a solution. I hope you get yours sorted but if not then give up and try another brand.