How do I replace a Motorola Talkabout T380 battery that will not charge?
Answer
If only one T380 battery will not charge, the pack itself is usually worn out rather than the radio. Buy a replacement that is listed for the T380 or T383, matches 3.7V lithium-ion chemistry, and uses the same connector shape before assuming the charger or radio is bad.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Do not force a swollen, punctured, or overheated lithium battery into a charger; recycle it at an approved battery drop-off.
Follow these steps
Confirm the battery is the fault
Put the working battery in the radio that used the failed pack, then try charging the failed pack alone in the original charger for at least one full charge cycle.
You should see: The radio works with the good battery, and the failed pack still shows no charge progress.
Match the exact battery specs
Read the model and voltage on the old pack and on the radio label. Look for a replacement that explicitly lists T380 or T383 compatibility, 3.7V lithium-ion chemistry, and the same connector and physical size.
You should see: You have a short list of packs that match voltage, chemistry, connector, and model fit.
Buy from a reputable source
Order from Motorola’s parts channel or a seller that clearly states T380/T383 fit. Avoid no-name packs that only say “universal walkie battery” without voltage and connector details.
You should see: The product listing names T380 or T383 and lists matching electrical specs.
Install and test the new pack
Insert the new battery, charge it fully in the original charger, then test transmit and receive on both radios.
You should see: The new battery charges and both radios power on and communicate as before.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Whether the good battery charges normally in the same charger, the exact model printed on the radio (T380 or T383), and the voltage and connector style stamped on the old pack.
Before you change anything: Label which battery fails and which still works. Try the working battery in both radios and in the same charger. Note the voltage (usually 3.7V) and model number on the old pack. Avoid swollen or damaged lithium batteries; recycle them safely.