Are you facing the frustrating issue of your iPhone not charging, but it turns on as soon as you plug it in? This problem can leave you puzzled, but fear not, as we have prepared a comprehensive troubleshooting guide to help you resolve this issue. In this article, we will discuss the possible reasons behind this problem and provide you with step-by-step solutions to fix it.
Check the Charging Cable and Adapter
One of the first things you should do when your iPhone is not charging but turns on when plugged in is to check the charging cable and adapter. These components are crucial for a successful charging process, and any damage to them can prevent proper charging. Inspect the cable for any visible signs of wear and tear, such as frayed wires or bent connectors. Similarly, examine the adapter for any physical damage.
Ensure Proper Connection
Make sure that the charging cable is securely plugged into both the iPhone and the adapter. Sometimes, a loose connection can cause charging issues. Try disconnecting and reconnecting the cable to ensure a snug fit. Additionally, check if the cable is fully inserted into the adapter and the power source.
Try a Different Cable and Adapter
If you find any damage to the charging cable or adapter, it is advisable to try using a different set to see if the problem persists. Borrow a cable and adapter from a friend or family member who uses an iPhone, or consider purchasing a new one from a reliable source. Using a different set will help determine if the issue lies with the cable and adapter or with other factors.
Use Apple-Certified Accessories
It is always recommended to use Apple-certified accessories for your iPhone. While third-party cables and adapters may seem more affordable, they often lack the necessary quality standards and can cause compatibility issues. Apple-certified accessories are designed specifically for your iPhone and ensure optimal performance during charging. Investing in genuine accessories can save you from potential charging problems.
Clean the Charging Port
A dirty or dusty charging port can obstruct the charging process and lead to the issue of your iPhone not charging but turning on when plugged in. Over time, lint, dust, and debris can accumulate in the port, preventing a proper connection with the charging cable. Cleaning the charging port is a simple yet effective solution.
Tools for Cleaning
To clean the charging port, you will need a few tools. A soft-bristled brush, such as a clean toothbrush or a specialized electronics brush, can help dislodge any debris. You can also use a toothpick, a SIM card removal tool, or a compressed air duster to gently remove dirt from the port.
Cleaning Steps
Start by powering off your iPhone to avoid any potential damage. Then, inspect the charging port to identify any visible dirt or debris. Gently brush the port using the soft-bristled brush in a circular motion, being careful not to apply too much pressure. If there are any stubborn particles, use a toothpick or SIM card removal tool to carefully dislodge them. Finally, blow compressed air into the port to remove any remaining dust.
Cautionary Measures
While cleaning the charging port, it is essential to exercise caution. Avoid using sharp objects that could damage the port or cause injury. Be gentle throughout the process to prevent any accidental dislodging of internal components. If you are unsure or uncomfortable performing the cleaning yourself, it is best to seek professional assistance.
Preventive Measures
To minimize the accumulation of dirt and debris in the charging port, consider using a protective cover or a port cover. These accessories help shield the port from outside elements and prevent particles from entering. Regularly cleaning the port and using preventive measures can prolong the lifespan of your charging port and reduce the likelihood of charging issues.
Restart Your iPhone
Restarting your iPhone is a simple yet effective method to resolve various software-related issues, including charging problems. It clears temporary files, resets certain settings, and refreshes the device’s system, which can often fix minor glitches causing the charging issue.
Soft Restart
A soft restart involves turning off your iPhone and then turning it back on. To perform a soft restart, press and hold the power button until the “Slide to Power Off” option appears on the screen. Slide the power icon to the right to shut down your iPhone. After a few seconds, press and hold the power button again until the Apple logo appears, indicating that your iPhone is restarting.
Force Restart
If a soft restart doesn’t resolve the charging issue, you can try a force restart. This method is useful when your iPhone becomes unresponsive or fails to turn off using the regular method. The steps to force restart your iPhone vary depending on the model:
iPhone 6s and earlier:
Press and hold the power button and the home button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears.
iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus:
Press and hold the power button and the volume down button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears.
iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X:
Quickly press and release the volume up button, then quickly press and release the volume down button. Finally, press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears.
Wait for the Restart
After initiating a soft or force restart, wait patiently for your iPhone to complete the restart process. This may take a few moments, and you should see the Apple logo followed by the lock screen. Once your iPhone has restarted, check if the charging issue has been resolved.
Update Your iPhone’s Software
Outdated software can sometimes cause charging problems. Apple regularly releases software updates that include bug fixes and improvements to enhance the performance of your iPhone. Updating your iPhone’s software to the latest version can potentially resolve the issue of your iPhone not charging but turning on when plugged in.
Check for Software Updates
To check if there are any available software updates for your iPhone, follow these steps:
- Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap on “General”.
- Select “Software Update”.
Your iPhone will then check for any available updates. If an update is found, you will be prompted to download and install it. Make sure your iPhone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and has sufficient battery charge before proceeding with the update.
Install the Software Update
Once you have confirmed that an update is available, tap on “Download and Install”. Your iPhone will begin downloading the update, and you might be asked to enter your passcode or agree to the terms and conditions. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process. Your iPhone will restart after the update is installed.
Automatic Software Updates
To ensure you always have the latest software version, you can enable automatic software updates on your iPhone. This feature allows your device to download and install updates automatically when connected to Wi-Fi and charging. To enable automatic software updates, go to “Settings” > “General” > “Software Update” and toggle on the “Download iOS updates” option.
Reset All Settings
If the previous steps didn’t solve the problem, you can try resetting all settings on your iPhone. This process will revert all customized settings to their default state, while preserving your personal data and media. Resetting all settings can help eliminate any software-related conflicts or misconfigurations that may be causing the charging issue.
Access the Reset Options
To reset all settings on your iPhone, follow these steps:
- Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap on “General”.
- Scroll to the bottom and select “Reset”.
- Choose “Reset All Settings”.
Confirm the Reset
A pop-up window will appear, warning you that this action will delete all customized settings. Tap on “Reset All Settings” to proceed. You might be prompted to enter your passcode or Apple ID password for security purposes.
Wait for the Reset to Complete
Your iPhone will now reset all settings to their default values. This process may take a few minutes, and your iPhone will restart once the reset is complete. After the restart, you will need to reconfigure certain settings, such as Wi-Fi passwords and display preferences, according to your preferences.
Check for App or System Updates
Compatibility issues between certain apps or the iOS system itself can interfere with the charging process. Ensuring that your apps and system are up to date can resolve such conflicts and help your iPhone charge properly.
Check for App Updates
To check for app updates, follow these steps:
- Open the “App Store” on your iPhone.
- Tap on the “Updates” tab at the bottom right corner of the screen.
- You will see a list of available updates for your installed apps.
- Tap on “Update” next to the app you wish to update, or tap “Update All” to update all apps simultaneously.
Make sure your iPhone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and has sufficient battery charge before updating the apps. After updating the apps, check if the charging issue persists.
Check for System Updates
To check for system updates, follow these steps:
- Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap on “General”.
- Select “Software Update”.
Your iPhone will check for any available updates. If an update is found, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it. After updating the system, check if the charging problem has been resolved.
Perform a Hard Reset
If all other troubleshooting steps fail to fix the charging issue, performing a hard reset might be the solution. A hard reset forcefully restarts your iPhone and can help resolve various software-related issues that may be interfering with the charging process.
Hard Reset on Different iPhone Models
The steps to perform a hard reset vary depending on the model of your iPhone:
iPhone 6s and earlier:
Press and hold the power button and the home button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears on the screen. Release the buttons once you see the logo.
iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus:
Press and hold the power button and the volume down button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears on the screen. Release the buttons once you see the logo.
iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X, and newer models:
Quickly press and release the volume up button, then quickly press and release the volume down button. Finally, press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears on the screen. Release the button once you see the logo.
Wait for the Hard Reset to Complete
After performing a hard reset, wait for your iPhone to complete the restart process. This may take a few moments, and you should see the Apple logo followed by the lock screen. Once your iPhone has restarted, check if the charging issue has been resolved.
Contact Apple Support
If none of the previous solutions have fixed the issue of your iPhone not charging but turning on when plugged in, it is advisable to contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service center. Apple Support representatives are trained to assist with hardware-related issues and can provide further guidance and solutions tailored to your specific situation.
Prepare for Contacting Support
Before reaching out to Apple Support, gather the relevant information about your iPhone, such as its model, serial number, and the troubleshooting steps you have already attempted. This information will help the support representative understand your issue better and provide more accurate assistance.
Apple Support Options
There are several ways to contact Apple Support:
Phone Support:
You can call Apple Support directly and speak with a representative who will guide you through the troubleshooting process and provide solutions. The contact number for your region can be found on the official Apple Support website.
Online Chat:
If you prefer online communication, you can initiate a chat session with an Apple Support representative on the Apple Support website. This method allows you to explain your issue and receive real-time assistance from the comfort of your home.
Apple Support App:
The Apple Support app, available for free on the App Store, provides a convenient way to access support resources and contact Apple Support directly from your iPhone. The app also provides personalized recommendations based on your device and issue.
Avoid Using Third-Party Accessories
Using non-certified charging cables or adapters can lead to compatibility issues and prevent your iPhone from charging correctly. While third-party accessories may be attractive due to their lower cost, they often lack the necessary quality standards and may not be designed to work seamlessly with your iPhone.
Benefits of Apple-Certified Accessories
Apple-certified accessories undergo rigorous testing to ensure compatibility, performance, and safety. By using genuine Apple accessories, you can avoid potential charging problems and ensure optimal charging efficiency for your iPhone. Apple-certified cables and adapters may be slightly more expensivethan third-party alternatives, but the peace of mind and reliable performance they offer make them worth the investment.
Compatibility and Performance
Apple-certified accessories are specifically designed to work seamlessly with your iPhone. They undergo strict testing to ensure compatibility with the latest iOS updates and optimal charging performance. Using non-certified accessories can lead to errors or limitations in charging functionality, resulting in the issue of your iPhone not charging but turning on when plugged in.
Safety and Protection
Safety is a top priority when it comes to charging your iPhone. Apple-certified accessories adhere to strict safety standards, providing protection against overcharging, short circuits, and other potential hazards. Non-certified accessories may lack the necessary safety measures, increasing the risk of damage to your iPhone or even personal harm.
Warranty Considerations
Using non-certified accessories can also have implications on your iPhone’s warranty. If Apple determines that a third-party accessory caused damage to your iPhone, they may not cover the repairs under warranty. By using Apple-certified accessories, you can ensure that your warranty remains intact, providing you with added protection and peace of mind.
Battery Replacement
In some cases, a faulty battery might be the root cause of the charging problem. Over time, iPhone batteries can wear out and lose their ability to hold a charge effectively. If your iPhone is out of warranty and all other troubleshooting steps have failed to resolve the charging issue, consider getting the battery replaced by a professional technician.
Signs of a Defective Battery
There are a few indicators that your iPhone’s battery may need replacement:
- Rapid or unexpected battery drain
- Inability to hold a charge for a reasonable duration
- Increased charging time
- Random shutdowns or restarts
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is likely that your battery is nearing the end of its lifespan and needs replacement.
Professional Battery Replacement
Replacing an iPhone battery requires specialized tools and expertise. It is recommended to have the battery replaced by a professional technician who is experienced in iPhone repairs. They will use genuine Apple parts and ensure that the replacement is performed safely and correctly.
Authorized Service Centers
Apple has authorized service centers where you can have your iPhone battery replaced. These centers employ certified technicians who have undergone Apple’s rigorous training and follow strict repair guidelines. They can provide you with a genuine Apple battery and ensure that your iPhone functions properly after the replacement.
Third-Party Repair Services
Alternatively, you can choose to have your iPhone battery replaced by a reputable third-party repair service. It is important to do thorough research and select a service provider with a good reputation and positive customer reviews. Ensure that they use high-quality, genuine replacement batteries to maintain the integrity of your iPhone.
Conclusion
Dealing with an iPhone that doesn’t charge but turns on when plugged in can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue. Start by checking the charging cable and adapter for any damage and ensure that you are using Apple-certified accessories. Clean the charging port to remove any dirt or debris that may be obstructing the charging process. Try restarting your iPhone and updating its software to the latest version. Resetting all settings can help eliminate any software conflicts, and checking for app or system updates can address compatibility issues.
If all else fails, performing a hard reset or contacting Apple Support can provide further assistance. Remember to avoid using non-certified accessories and consider battery replacement if your iPhone’s battery is defective. By following these steps and seeking professional help when needed, you can get your iPhone back to charging properly and enjoy uninterrupted usage.