Why is my mp3 not turning on after dropping into water?

Hi @jpjl

What is the maker and model number of the .mp3 player?

The impurities in the water causes corrosion and provides circuit paths for the electricity which were not in the player's operating design and could damage the components. The corrosion starts immediately and is ongoing until it is completely cleaned away

First do not try to charge or to turn on your player and then remove the battery as soon as possible from the player to minimize any further damage.

Then you need to dis-assemble the rest of the palyer and clean all the affected parts using Isopropyl Alcohol 99%+ (available at electronics parts stores) to remove all traces of corrosion and water. If possible do not use "rubbing alcohol" as in some cases this is only 70% IPA or less, can contain additives and is not as effective. If you do have to use it check the label to verify the amount of IPA. The higher the percentage of IPA the better

Here is a link that describes the process. Electronics Water Damage

As always with electronics, especially surface mounted pcb be gentle when handling and especially when brushing away the corrosion. You do not want to remove any components from the board. Remove the shields that may be covering some components as the water may have got in under there. The ends of any flex cables and their connectors need to be cleaned as well

Hopefully after you have done all this the player might possibly work correctly again.

Here is a link to the various ifixit MP3 Player guides that may help (if yours is listed of course). If not search on places such as YouTube etc. to see if there are any teardown or battery replacement videos for your make and model player, that show how to open the player

If this process seems too daunting, take your player to a reputable, professional mobile phone or electronics repair service, experienced in liquid damage repair and ask for a quote for a repair.