Acer Preditor helios neo 16 PHN16-71 (2023 model) not charging via main port, USB-C works slowly

hemantkumarsaranjaat

Hi @hdflat, @Ykm, @Danfil, @Newgamer123 — I could really use some help here.

I’m facing the exact same problem with my Acer Predator Helios Neo 16 PHN16-71 (2023 model). The main charging port looks exactly like the one in the picture above, and my laptop doesn’t show the “plugged in” status when I connect the charger.

I can still charge it using a USB-C adapter, but it’s much slower. Since my warranty has expired and the nearest service center is quite far, I’m not sure where to go for repairs.

If anyone has dealt with this before and found a solution, please share — it would mean a lot to me.

[Edited the thread to add issue detail]

Puraw

https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/728067/acer-preditor-helios-neo-16-phn16-71-2023-model-not-charging-via-main-port-usb-c-works-slowly

Hi hemantkumarsaranjaat
Warranty timing on the PHN16‑71 Acer’s warranty database starts from the factory build date unless corrected. If your unit sat in the channel before sale, the online lookup can show it expired early. Uploading a proof‑of‑purchase to Acer support will reset the coverage to the proper 24 months from your actual purchase.

DC‑in jack symptoms The barrel plug on the PHN16‑71 is a locking style — you should feel and hear a solid click when fully inserted. If it’s run partially engaged, tiny arcs can scar or burn the contacts. Once that plating is damaged, continuity becomes intermittent or fails completely, and the only permanent fix is replacing the DC‑in board or, in some cases, the mainboard assembly.

About USB‑C charging here The PHN16‑71 supports USB‑C charging via its Thunderbolt 4 port, but it’s meant for light loads or top‑ups. Under gaming or heavy CPU/GPU demand, the firmware will flag low‑power input and draw from the battery to make up the difference. It’s not a substitute for the 230 W barrel adapter.

Recommended path forward

• If you have proof of purchase, contact Acer to adjust the warranty start date.
• Avoid using a visibly damaged DC‑in jack to prevent further PCB damage.
• Arrange a DC‑in replacement through Acer or a trusted repair shop; use USB‑C only as a short‑term workaround.

If out‑of‑warranty and jack is burned

• Source an Acer‑certified DC‑in board for the PHN16‑71 (part numbers vary by region; match your exact SKU).
• Have the replacement done by an Acer service partner or a competent independent shop — the port is on a sub‑board in this model, so it’s a straightforward swap once the base cover is off.
• Inspect the adapter plug as well; if the tip is pitted or discolored, replace the adapter to avoid damaging the new jack.
• Continue using the barrel adapter for full‑load operation; keep USB‑C as a travel or backup option only.