How to Fix Rattling Noise in Your AirPods Pro: A Comprehensive Guide

Experiencing a rattling noise in your AirPods Pro can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re trying to enjoy your favorite music, podcasts, or take calls. This issue, often described as a crackling or static sound, has been reported by many AirPods Pro users and can significantly diminish the premium audio experience you expect. If you’re asking “How Do I Fix The Rattling Noise In My Car” in relation to your audio experience, you might actually be experiencing this common AirPods Pro problem. While car rattles are a different issue altogether, this guide will focus on resolving the rattling sound specifically in your AirPods Pro.

Many users have taken to online forums to share their experiences and seek solutions. This article consolidates those insights, along with official recommendations, to provide you with a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and potentially fix the rattling noise in your AirPods Pro.

Understanding the Rattling Noise Issue in AirPods Pro

The rattling or crackling sound in AirPods Pro typically occurs during audio playback, particularly with bass-heavy music or in noisy environments. Some users have noticed it becomes more prominent during movement, like walking or exercising. Interestingly, some users report that the noise is less noticeable or disappears when noise cancellation or transparency mode is turned off.

Several factors can contribute to this issue, ranging from software glitches to hardware problems. Let’s explore the troubleshooting steps you can take.

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix AirPods Pro Rattling Noise

Before assuming a hardware defect, it’s crucial to try some software and basic checks that can often resolve the rattling noise.

1. Ensure Your AirPods Pro and Device are Updated

Outdated software can sometimes cause unexpected issues with AirPods Pro. Make sure both your AirPods Pro and the device they are connected to (iPhone, iPad, Mac, etc.) are running the latest software versions.

• Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch: Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
• Update your Mac: Go to Apple menu > About This Mac > Software Update.
• AirPods Pro Firmware: AirPods Pro firmware updates are usually installed automatically while charging and connected to an Apple device. Ensure they are charging and near your paired device to encourage updates.

Keeping your devices and AirPods Pro updated ensures compatibility and often includes bug fixes that may address the rattling noise.

2. Adjust and Clean Your AirPods Pro

Sometimes, the rattling noise can be related to the fit or cleanliness of your AirPods Pro.

• Check the Ear Tip Fit: Ensure the ear tips are securely attached and are the correct size for your ears. A poor fit can affect sound quality and potentially cause vibrations that sound like rattling. Experiment with different ear tip sizes (Small, Medium, Large) that came with your AirPods Pro to find the best seal.

AirPods Pro eartip sizes for finding the best fit

Alt text: Three sizes of AirPods Pro ear tips (small, medium, large) displayed to illustrate finding the right fit for noise isolation and sound quality.

• Clean Your AirPods Pro: Dirt, earwax, or debris buildup can obstruct the speakers or microphones and cause distorted sounds. Gently clean your AirPods Pro, especially the speaker mesh and microphone openings, using a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Avoid using liquids or sharp objects.

3. Experiment with Noise Control Settings

As some users have reported, the rattling noise might be linked to the noise cancellation or transparency mode. Try the following:

• Turn Noise Cancellation Off: Disable noise cancellation and listen to see if the rattling noise disappears. You can do this through your device’s volume control panel or AirPods Pro settings in Bluetooth.
• Switch to Transparency Mode: Similarly, try switching to transparency mode to see if the noise persists.
• Test with Noise Cancellation and Transparency On/Off in Different Environments: The rattling might be more noticeable in specific environments or with certain types of sounds when noise control is active.

If the rattling disappears when noise cancellation is turned off, it could indicate an issue with the external microphones or the noise cancellation system itself.

4. Try a Different App or Audio Source

In some cases, the rattling noise might be triggered by specific apps or audio content.

• Test with Different Apps: If you primarily experience the rattling with one app (e.g., Spotify), try using a different music app (e.g., Apple Music, YouTube Music) or audio source to see if the issue persists. Some apps might have compatibility issues or audio processing quirks that could contribute to the problem.
• Play Different Types of Audio: Test with various types of audio, such as music with varying bass levels, podcasts, and phone calls, to determine if the rattling is consistent across all audio types.

If the rattling is isolated to a specific app, the problem might not be with your AirPods Pro but rather with the app itself.

5. Reset and Re-pair Your AirPods Pro

Resetting your AirPods Pro can resolve temporary software glitches and re-establishing the Bluetooth connection can sometimes fix audio issues.

• Reset Your AirPods Pro:
  1. Place your AirPods Pro in their charging case and close the lid.
  2. Wait 30 seconds.
  3. Open the lid of your charging case.
  4. Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for about 15 seconds, until the status light flashes amber, then white.
• Re-pair Your AirPods Pro: After resetting, you’ll need to re-pair your AirPods Pro with your devices as if they were new.

6. Check for Hardware Issues and Contact Apple Support

If none of the above software troubleshooting steps resolve the rattling noise, it’s possible that you are experiencing a hardware issue.

• AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues: Apple has acknowledged that some AirPods Pro manufactured before October 2020 may experience sound issues, including crackling or static sounds. Check if your AirPods Pro are eligible for the AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues. This program offers free replacement for affected AirPods Pro.

• Contact Apple Support: If your AirPods Pro are still under warranty or if you suspect a hardware defect, contact Apple Support. You can schedule an appointment at an Apple Store or contact them online or by phone. They can diagnose the issue and determine if a repair or replacement is necessary.

Apple Support options for troubleshooting and repair assistance

Alt text: Apple Support logo with options for contacting support including website, chat, and phone icons, emphasizing various channels for customer assistance.

Many users in online forums, like the one referenced, have reported successful replacements from Apple for rattling AirPods Pro, especially when the issue occurs within the warranty period or under the service program.

Conclusion

Dealing with a rattling noise in your AirPods Pro can be annoying, but often, it can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps. By ensuring your software is updated, cleaning your AirPods, experimenting with noise control settings, and resetting your device, you might be able to eliminate the issue. However, if the rattling persists, especially if it started recently, it’s crucial to consider a potential hardware problem and contact Apple Support. Taking these steps will help you determine the cause of the rattling noise and get you back to enjoying your AirPods Pro without unwanted distractions.