Do you have a Milwaukee M18 battery that has stopped working? Perhaps it's not holding a charge, or maybe it won't charge at all.
If you're experiencing these issues, a simple reset may be the solution you need.
In this article, we'll show you exactly how to do it, step-by-step. So, let's get started!
When Should I Reset Milwaukee M18 Battery?
Here are a few situations where resetting your battery might be necessary:
Lights 1-4, Flashing Quickly
When the lights on your battery pack flash rapidly in a sequence from 1-4, it indicates that the current draw is too high for charging.
You should disconnect the battery from the charger.
Once you've ensured the current draw is appropriate, you can reset the battery.
Battery Not Charging
If your Milwaukee M18 battery is not charging properly, resetting it may help.
First, try cleaning the battery contacts and the charger contacts with a dry cloth.
If that doesn't work, try resetting the battery. Then, try charging the battery again.
Sudden Power Loss
The Milwaukee M18 battery has a smart feature to protect itself and last longer. It monitors power use and its own heat.
If the tool works too hard, it might turn itself off to prevent damage. Before turning off, the tool can buzz for 2-5 seconds as a warning.
Should you encounter this, either lighten your pressure or let go of the trigger. Should the tool halt, disengage the trigger for a quick reset.
Frequent power disruptions could lead to the battery shutting down entirely. To check, press the fuel gauge button.
A single blink from the lowest light means it needs resetting.
Place the battery on its charger to reset. The lights will quickly show the battery's charge level at shutdown, ranging from one to four lights.
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How to Reset Milwaukee M18 Battery (In 3 Ways)
Resetting a Milwaukee M18 battery can be a quick and easy process if you know the right steps.
Here are three ways to reset your Milwaukee M18 battery.
Soft Reset
The soft reset is the simplest way to reset your Milwaukee M18 battery.
To perform a soft reset on your Milwaukee M18 battery:
- Take the battery out of the tool.
- Pause for a short moment.
- Put the battery back into the tool.
Hard Reset
If the soft reset doesn't work, you can try a hard reset. Follow the steps below:
- Use the tool until the battery runs out and it turns off.
- Remove the battery and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Place the battery back into the tool.
- Charge the battery fully using the charger.
Through A Battery Reset Tool
If the soft and hard resets do not work, you can try using a battery reset tool.
These tools are designed to reset your Milwaukee M18 battery quickly and easily.
To use it, plug the tool into the battery. Then, follow the simple steps given by the tool to start the reset. Wait for the tool to finish its job.
Whether you choose to use a soft reset, hard reset, or a battery reset tool, make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Safety Measures When Resetting Milwaukee M18 Battery
Resetting your Milwaukee M18 battery can be a simple process, but it's important to take the necessary safety measures to avoid injuries.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when resetting your Milwaukee M18 battery:
- Always read the operator's manual and any warning labels on the battery pack, charger, and tool before resetting your battery.
- Ensure that the battery pack is fully discharged before attempting to reset it.
- Use only a Milwaukee M18 charger to reset your battery pack.
- Do not attempt to reset a damaged or leaking battery pack. This can be extremely dangerous and may cause a fire or explosion.
- Keep the battery pack and charger away from heat sources, flames, or other sources of ignition.
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Troubleshooting Other Common Issues With Milwaukee M18 Battery
While resetting your Milwaukee M18 battery can solve some issues, there are other common problems you might encounter.
Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you get your battery back in working order:
Poor Charging
If you notice that your Milwaukee M18 battery is not charging properly, you might have a dirty battery or charger.
Try cleaning the contacts on both the battery and charger with a dry cloth. If that doesn't work, you might need to replace the battery or charger.
Battery Overheating
Overheating can occur when you use your Milwaukee M18 battery for an extended period or if you charge it for too long.
If you notice that your battery is getting hot, stop using it immediately and let it cool down for a few minutes.
If the problem persists, you might need to replace the battery.
Battery Not Holding A Charge
If your Milwaukee M18 battery is not holding a charge, it might be because of a faulty charger or a damaged battery.
Try charging the battery with a different charger to see if that works. If it doesn't, you might need to replace the battery.
Battery Drying Up Too Soon
If you notice that your Milwaukee M18 battery is drying up too soon, it might be because of a problem with the charger or a faulty battery.
Try charging the battery with a different charger to see if that works. If it doesn't, you might need to replace the battery.
Milwaukee M18 Battery Maintenance Tips
To keep your Milwaukee M18 battery in top shape and ensure it lasts for a long time, you should follow some basic maintenance tips.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Keep your battery in a cool and dry location. Harsh temperatures can harm the battery and shorten its life.
- Charge your battery regularly. Charge it every few months, even if not in use, to prevent it from discharging completely.
- Use the right charger. Always use a Milwaukee M18 charger to charge your battery.
- Clean your battery regularly. Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the contacts on your battery and charger.
- Avoid overcharging your battery. Overcharging your battery can damage it and reduce its lifespan.
Can I Reset the Milwaukee M18 Battery Without Taking It Out of the Tool?
Unfortunately, you cannot reset the battery while it is still attached to the tool.
You will need to remove the battery from the tool and follow the proper steps to reset it.
This is because most reset methods need the battery to be separated from the tool for safety and to work properly.
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How Often Should I Reset My Milwaukee M18 Battery?
Resetting your Milwaukee M18 battery shouldn't be a regular routine.
Only reset it when you notice issues like reduced runtime, incorrect battery level indications, or other unusual behaviors.
Regularly resetting it without reason can be unnecessary and won't benefit the battery's performance or lifespan.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to reset a Milwaukee M18 battery quickly and easily.
Now, you can save time and money by resetting your battery instead of buying a new one.
If you are unsure about any of the steps, consult the Milwaukee M18 user manual or contact customer support.
We hope this article has been helpful to you and wish you the best of luck in all your future projects!