If you’re experiencing muscle pain and your favorite massage gun isn’t working, don’t worry – it’s a fairly common problem. There are a number of potential causes, but thankfully, there are also a number of things you can do to fix it yourself.
Before you take your massage gun to the store to get it replaced or checked with the question: “Why is my massage gun not turning on?”, – try my simple troubleshooting tips. With any luck, you’ll be able to get your massage gun working again in no time.
There are a few reasons why your massage gun might not be turning on. It could be that the batteries are dead or that there is a problem with the power cord. If the problem is with the power cord, you may need to replace it.
If the problem is with the batteries, you may need to recharge them or replace them.
Table of Contents
Why Your Massage Gun is not Turning on

If your massage gun isn’t turning on, it’s usually caused by a simple power or safety issue rather than a serious fault. Most problems relate to battery charge, button activation, or built-in protection features designed to prevent overheating or motor damage.
Before assuming the device is broken, it’s worth checking the most common causes below — many can be fixed in just a few minutes 🔋
The Power Button Hasn’t Been Fully Activated
Many massage guns don’t turn on with a quick press. Instead, they require you to press and hold the power button for 6–8 seconds before the motor activates.
This catches a lot of people out, especially if you’re used to single-press devices. If your massage gun appears unresponsive, try holding the button down firmly for several seconds and wait for the indicator light to appear.
The Massage Gun Is Overheating
If your massage gun has been used for an extended period or with heavy pressure, it may shut down automatically to protect the motor 🔥 This is a built-in safety feature on many models.
If overheating occurs:
- Turn the device off
- Allow it to cool completely before restarting
- Avoid using it continuously for long sessions
- Reduce pressure during use
If the gun won’t turn back on after cooling, check the manufacturer’s guidelines or contact customer support.
The Battery Is Not Properly Charged
A low or depleted battery is the most common reason a massage gun won’t turn on. Connect the device to its charger and check whether the charging indicator light appears.
If no light turns on:
- Try a different power outlet
- Check the charging cable for damage
- Leave the device charging for at least 30–60 minutes
If the massage gun still won’t power on after charging, unplug it, wait a few minutes, then reconnect it to reset the connection 🔄
The Power Button May Be Dirty or Faulty
Over time, dirt, dust, or moisture can interfere with the power button’s contact. This can prevent the massage gun from registering presses properly.
You can try gently cleaning around the button using a cotton swab lightly dipped in rubbing alcohol 🧼 Make sure the device is turned off and unplugged before cleaning. If the button feels loose or unresponsive even after cleaning, the internal switch may be faulty.
The Device May Need Servicing or Replacement
If none of the above steps work, the issue may be internal — such as a damaged battery, motor, or circuit component. At this point, it’s best to stop troubleshooting to avoid further damage.
Check whether your massage gun is still under warranty and contact the manufacturer for repair or replacement options ⚠️ Continued use of a malfunctioning device isn’t recommended.
oblem.
Look for Your Warranty Information
Most massage gun brands offer a warranty for their products. However, the duration of the warranty may vary depending on the brand. Some brands offer a one-year warranty, while others may offer a two-year or even a lifetime warranty.
It should be noted that the warranty applies only to defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover damages caused by misuse or mishandling of the product. For example, if the massage gun is dropped and breaks, the warranty will not cover the cost of repairs.
To avoid inconvenience, always contact an authorized team for repair.
Tips: How to Take Care of Your Massage Gun
It is important to take care of your massage gun and battery to ensure its longevity. When not in use, always keep the gun turned off and unplug the charging cord. It is also important not to overuse the gun, and to give it a break every 15 minutes or so to avoid overheating.
If your gun is not working properly despite your efforts, consult a professional.

FAQ
Why Is My Massage Gun Not Turning On?
If your massage gun won’t turn on, the most common cause is a fully depleted battery. Plug it in and let it charge for at least 30–60 minutes before trying again 🔋 Check that the charging cable and power source are working properly. Some massage guns also have built-in safety features that prevent powering on if the device has overheated or been under heavy load. Let it cool down fully and try again.
Why Does My Massage Gun Keep Stopping During Use?
A massage gun that keeps stopping is often responding to a safety or power issue. Low battery levels can cause the motor to shut off unexpectedly. Another common cause is applying too much pressure, which triggers an automatic motor protection feature. Try using lighter pressure and ensure the battery is fully charged 🔄 If the issue continues, allow the gun to cool before restarting.
Why Is My Massage Gun Not Turning Off?
If your massage gun won’t turn off, the power button or internal switch may be stuck or malfunctioning. Try holding the power button down for several seconds to force a shutdown. If that doesn’t work, let the battery drain completely, then recharge the unit ⚠️ Persistent problems may indicate an internal electrical fault, and you should contact the manufacturer or check warranty coverage.
Can You Damage Muscles With a Massage Gun?
Yes, improper use of a massage gun can lead to muscle soreness, bruising, or tissue irritation. Using excessive pressure, staying on one area too long, or using the gun too frequently can overload muscle tissue. Massage guns should feel relieving, not painful 😊 Stick to light-to-moderate pressure and short sessions to reduce the risk of injury.
Why Does My Massage Gun Feel Weak or Lose Power?
If your massage gun feels weaker than usual, the battery may be nearing the end of its charge cycle or starting to degrade over time. A weak motor response can also happen if the gun overheats or is used with excessive pressure. Fully recharge the device and allow it to cool before use 🔋 If weakness continues, the battery may need replacement.
Why Is My Massage Gun Making a Strange Noise?
Unusual noises such as rattling or grinding may indicate a loose attachment, internal wear, or motor strain. First, turn the device off and check that the attachment is securely fitted. If the noise continues, stop using the gun to avoid further damage 🔧 Continued use could worsen internal components and reduce the lifespan of the device.
How Can I Use a Massage Gun Safely?
To use a massage gun safely, start with the lowest speed setting and apply light pressure only. Avoid bony areas, joints, the neck, and sensitive regions. Limit use to short sessions on each muscle group and allow recovery time between sessions 💆♂️ If you experience sharp pain, numbness, or increased soreness, stop using the device and reassess your technique.

🌱 Related Articles
- Can You Use Massage Gun on Neck?
- Are Massage Guns Safe during Pregnancy?
- Do Massage Guns Work for Knots?
Conclusion
If your massage gun isn’t turning on, it’s usually due to a simple issue such as a low battery, an unresponsive power button, or an automatic shut-off caused by overheating. Many of these problems can be resolved quickly with basic checks, proper charging, and allowing the device time to cool down.
If troubleshooting doesn’t restore normal function, it may indicate an internal fault and continuing to use the device could cause further damage. In that case, contacting the manufacturer or a qualified service provider is the safest option. With correct use and regular maintenance, most massage guns remain reliable tools for muscle recovery and everyday relief.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider or certified massage therapist before beginning any new treatment, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or concerns.











