Experiencing difficulty with your iPhone not charging even with a functional charger? This issue could stem from a defective charging port, which is often the result of debris accumulation or minor malfunctions. However, rest assured that these are typically straightforward problems that often do not require professional assistance. If you find yourself dealing with an inactive charging port and are seeking solutions, you’re in luck! We have helpful remedies for you.
1. Restart your iPhone
Try restarting your iPhone if it’s not charging. When encountering any issue with your iPhone, restarting the device is typically the initial step. This also applies when the charging port isn’t functioning correctly. Restarting the iPhone can resolve any software-related issues that could be preventing it from charging. However, if your iPhone’s battery is completely depleted or at 0%, this method may not be effective.
2. Hard reset your iPhone
Consider performing a hard reset on your iPhone if it still refuses to charge. This method goes beyond a standard restart and involves completely rebooting your device’s processor, which may take a bit longer than a typical reset.
For iPhones running iOS 16 or later, follow these steps to perform a hard reset:
- Press and quickly release the volume up button.
- Press and quickly release the volume down button.
- Press and hold the side button.
- Release the side button when the Apple logo appears on the screen.
- After your iPhone finishes restarting, attempt to charge it again.
For iPhones with older iOS versions or those equipped with a home button, refer to Apple’s guide for instructions.
3. Examine the charging port of your iPhone
Examine the charging port of your iPhone if it continues to malfunction after restarting. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in the port, obstructing the connection between the cable and the pins. If available, use a can of compressed air to gently remove any loose debris from the charging port.
Next, employ a soft, dry brush to carefully clean the iPhone charging port. If a brush isn’t accessible, a toothpick can be used to clear any debris from within the port. Avoid using metallic pointed objects under any circumstances. After cleaning the iPhone charging port, plug in the device and observe if it begins to charge.
4. Examine the iPhone charging cable and adapter
Inspect the cable when your iPhone charging port isn’t functioning correctly. If you’ve been using the same iPhone charging cable for an extended period, it may have become damaged or frayed. In such instances, the cable might fail to charge your iPhone effectively. Rather than solely focusing on the iPhone charging port, consider replacing the cable if there are visible signs of damage to your current charging cable.
5. Verify the charging brick
Verify the functionality of the charging brick. Occasionally, the problem with your iPhone charging port may not be attributed to the cable. Instead, it could be related to the charging brick. Although rare, charging bricks can cease to function over time. To determine if this is the case, remove the charging cable from the brick and plug it into another one.
If you lack an additional charging brick for testing, simply plug the charging cable into your laptop. Does the phone begin charging? If so, it indicates the need for a replacement charging brick.
6. Inspect and clean your charging port
Regardless of where you store your iPhone—be it in your pocket, purse, holster, or backpack—the charging port tends to attract dust and debris. Lint accumulation in this small aperture can hinder the connection between your charging cable and the iPhone. Use caution while cleaning the charging port; you can either gently remove debris with a wooden toothpick or use compressed air to blow out any obstructions. Avoid using a paperclip, as it may damage the delicate pins within the charging port. Additionally, refrain from using liquids containing alcohol for cleaning.
7. Check the wireless charging function
Check if the wireless charging function is operational. After trying all the steps mentioned above and still encountering charging issues with your iPhone, it’s time to assess whether the wireless charging feature is functioning correctly. Place your phone on any compatible wireless charging station connected to a power source.
If the iPhone fails to charge even when using wireless charging, it suggests a potential malfunction with the charging board, necessitating repair.
8. Consider exploring alternative power sources to charge your iPhone
Although it might appear overly simplistic, it’s essential to acknowledge the existence of faulty outlets and power banks. Before attempting any other troubleshooting steps, it’s crucial to eliminate this possibility. If your iPhone fails to charge when connected to a wall outlet, try using a different outlet. Additionally, try charging your phone via a USB port on your computer or with your car charger while in your vehicle.
9. Examine the Optimized Battery Charging feature
If you observe that your iPhone ceases charging at 80%, there’s no cause for alarm. Since the release of iOS 13, a feature has been introduced to extend battery lifespan, known as Optimized Battery Charging. To access this feature, navigate to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging.
10. Consider attempting to charge your iPhone wirelessly
If you own an iPhone 8 or a newer model, you should have the capability to charge your phone without cables. Here’s how to connect your iPhone to a wireless charger:
- Plug your charger into a power source.
- Position the charger on a flat surface or as directed by the manufacturer.
- Lay your iPhone on the charger with the display facing upwards. It may take a few moments for your iPhone to initiate charging.
11. Consider restarting your iPhone
Occasionally, a straightforward reboot can eliminate any software glitches and restore your iPhone’s functionality. To do this, press and hold the power button along with either volume button until the ‘Slide to Power Off’ option appears on your screen. Swipe the slider to the right to switch off your phone. After a brief pause, press and hold the power button again to power on your iPhone.
12. Ensure your iPhone’s software is up to date
Although not a frequent occurrence, outdated software can sometimes disrupt your iPhone’s ability to perform basic functions such as charging when connected to a power source. To address this potential issue, verify that your iPhone is running the latest version of the iOS operating system.
Here’s how to check for updates:
- Unlock your iPhone and access Settings.
- Scroll down and select ‘General,’ then tap on ‘Software Update.’
- If Automatic Updates are enabled, you’ll see a message indicating your current iOS version and its update status.
- If Automatic Updates are disabled, tap on ‘Automatic Updates,’ then toggle on ‘Download iOS Updates’ and ‘Install iOS Updates.’
- Once the update is complete, plug in your iPhone and monitor its charging status.
13. Reset your iPhone’s settings
Reset your iPhone’s settings if you’ve attempted restarting and rebooting it without success in resolving the charging issue. Before seeking professional assistance, consider this step. Resetting your iPhone’s settings will erase personalized configurations while preserving all data such as photos, apps, videos, and music. Here’s how to proceed:
- Unlock your iPhone and navigate to ‘Settings.’
- Tap on ‘General.’
- Scroll down and select ‘Reset,’ then choose ‘Reset All Settings.’
- Allow your iPhone to reset and then attempt charging again.
14. Look for physical damage and consider seeking professional assistance
If you’ve followed all the steps mentioned above and your iPhone still refuses to charge, it’s possible that either your battery is defective or your iPhone has sustained damage. Possible causes include dropping the phone multiple times, exposure to water, or bent connector pins.
If you suspect damage to your iPhone, it’s advisable to consult a professional. You can visit an Apple Store nearby, contact Apple Support, or seek assistance from an authorized Apple service center for diagnosis and repair by trained professionals.
Dealing with a non-charging iPhone can be frustrating, but there’s a high likelihood of finding a solution through experimentation and adjustments. Proceed through the troubleshooting steps outlined above methodically. If none of them resolve the issue, consider having your iPhone examined and repaired by a professional.