User level: Level 1 (14 points)My iPad mini (A17 Pro - I don't know which generation) with a USB-C port, won't charge from my car's USB-A port. It's not the cable, which works fine on a home USB-A charger. Why won't it work in my 2018 Subaru?
Otto
Posted on Sep 20, 2026 7:06 AM
User level: Level 10 (334,506 points)Sep 21, 2026 2:50 AM in response to OttoKnobetter
OttoKnobetter wrote:
Thanks Lotuspilot. A good explanation, if disappointing. When first plugged in the iPad indicates a green battery, but a few seconds later says "Not charging". I wish it could accept a charge, even slowly, on a long drive. Oh well.
As described, the charging behaviour that you observe with the iPad suggests that car's USB Type-A outlet is borderline - and not quite sufficient to charge the iPad.
As suggested by SergZak, if the car has a 12V outlet, there are many available USB charging adapters that are designed to fit the 12V outlet - either single or dual USB-C or USB Type-A. When choosing, be mindful that they are available with a wide range of power ratings. Choosing one that provides at least 20W per outlet would be advisable.
Also, avoid no-name (unbranded) or obviously cheap Power Adapters or charging cables of any type - as they often lack safety features that would otherwise protect the iPad (or other connected device) from damage if a charging fault were to occur.
If choosing a USB-C Power Adapter, ensure that it supports USB PD (Power Delivery); Apple devices do not support other proprietary charging standards such as QC (QuickCharge).
Recommended brands include Anker (suggested by Zak) and Mophie - the latter, when registered with the Manufacturer, having a bullet-proof exchange policy.
User level: Level 1 (14 points)Sep 20, 2026 7:52 AM in response to OttoKnobetter
BTW - that USB-A in the car charges my iPhone 13 just fine via Lightning.
User level: Level 10 (334,506 points)Sep 20, 2026 3:11 PM in response to OttoKnobetter
As described, difficulty charging your iPad is simply due to the car's USB Type-A power source. The power from the car's USB port is simply insufficient to charge the iPad. An iPhone can successfully charge from power source that provides less power than would be required for an iPad.
Most models of iPad require a Power Adapter rated at 12W (i.e., 2.4A @5V) or greater to reliably charge. 5W Power sources (1.0A @5V), often found in older vehicles, will be unable to charge an iPad; if the iPad charges at all, charging will be very slow. Some USB Type-A charging outlets can be rated as low as 6W (1.2A @5V).
Many recent models of iPad are supplied with a 20W USB-C Power Adapter.
User level: Level 6 (11,986 points)Sep 20, 2026 5:58 PM in response to OttoKnobetter
An option if your car has an available 12 volt lighter socket would be to purchase a 12 volt (cigarette lighter) USB charger for the car and use that instead of the car's built-in USB ports.
Search Amazon using the following term: "cigarette lighter usb charger" for a plethora of chargers. I would stick to a name-brand like Anker or Belkin (or similar). Most of the ones I see there will output at 30 watts or more which would be more than adequate for an iPad.
Here's one to consider:
https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Charger-Adapter-PowerIQ-Samsung/dp/B0CP7NV936/
User level: Level 8 (43,363 points)Sep 20, 2026 8:04 AM in response to OttoKnobetter
Regardless of the cable working on another charger, you should still attempt to use another cable.
User level: Level 1 (14 points)Sep 20, 2026 5:17 PM in response to LotusPilot
Thanks Lotuspilot. A good explanation, if disappointing. When first plugged in the iPad indicates a green battery, but a few seconds later says "Not charging". I wish it could accept a charge, even slowly, on a long drive. Oh well.
Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256361232