How to Fix iPhone Not Charging – Troubleshooting and Solutions for Every Model
If you’ve ever found yourself staring at your iPhone, plugged in and still not charging, you’re not alone. It’s a frustrating problem that can happen to any iPhone model, from the latest iPhone 15 to older ones like the iPhone 8 or iPhone SE. Whether your phone won’t charge at all or it just refuses to charge past 80%, there are several common reasons why your iPhone might not be getting the juice it needs.
In this article, we’ll dive into why your iPhone isn’t charging, along with practical solutions for fixing it—no matter which model you own. From simple fixes to advanced troubleshooting, you’ll find a solution that fits your needs.
Common Reasons Your iPhone Isn’t Charging Properly
Before jumping into fixes, it’s essential to understand the most common reasons your iPhone might refuse to charge. The issue could lie in hardware, software, or settings. Let’s break down the top culprits.
1. Faulty Charging Cable or Adapter
A worn-out or damaged charging cable is one of the most common causes of charging problems. Cables can fray, bend, or break inside, causing interruptions in the charging process. If your iPhone isn’t charging when plugged in, the first thing to check is whether the cable is in good condition.
Signs of a faulty cable
- Visible frays or cuts
- Kinks or bends in the cable
- The adapter is loose or not secure
What to do
- Try a different charger or adapter to see if that fixes the problem.
- Make sure you’re using a certified cable (Apple or MFi certified) to avoid issues with charging.
2. Dirty or Blocked Charging Port
Your iPhone’s charging port is a tiny, often overlooked spot where dust, lint, and other debris can build up. Even the smallest blockage can interfere with charging. If your iPhone isn’t charging or charges intermittently, check the lightning port carefully.
How to clean the charging port
- Use a soft toothbrush or a can of compressed air to gently clear any debris.
- Avoid using pointed objects like toothpicks, as they could damage the port.
3. Software Glitches or Bugs
Sometimes, charging problems arise due to software glitches or bugs. Whether it’s after an update or simply an issue with the iOS system, your iPhone might not recognize the charger properly.
Solutions
- Force restart your iPhone (hold the power and volume buttons until the Apple logo appears).
- Make sure your iPhone’s software is up to date by going to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Reset all settings by going to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings (this won’t erase your data but will reset Wi-Fi passwords and preferences).
4. Battery Health Issues
A worn-out battery can also be a major culprit in charging issues. Over time, batteries degrade and may not accept charge efficiently, leading to charging problems or battery drain.
How to check your battery health
- Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health to see the maximum capacity of your battery. If it’s significantly below 80%, it might be time for a replacement.
How to Fix an iPhone That Won’t Charge
Now that we’ve covered the main reasons behind charging issues, let’s dive into how to actually fix them. Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshooting and fixing charging problems.
1. Restart or Force Restart Your iPhone
Sometimes, a simple restart is all it takes to resolve temporary software issues. If your iPhone won’t charge, try restarting it first to see if that clears any glitches.
How to force restart
- iPhone 8 and earlier: Press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears.
- iPhone X and newer: Press and release the volume up button, press and release the volume down button, then press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears.
2. Check and Clean the Charging Port
As mentioned earlier, debris can clog the lightning port and disrupt charging. Ensure the port is clean by using a soft brush or compressed air. This quick fix could resolve your charging issue.
3. Inspect and Replace the Charging Cable and Adapter
Try charging your iPhone with a different cable and adapter. If your phone charges with a new charger, then the issue lies with your old one. Make sure you’re using Apple-certified accessories to avoid further charging issues.
4. Try a Different Power Source
Your wall outlet, power strip, or computer USB port could be the issue. Try charging your iPhone in a different outlet or with a different power source (e.g., a power bank or another computer). Some USB ports don’t provide enough power to charge an iPhone properly.
5. Ensure iOS is Up-to-Date
Outdated software can sometimes cause charging and other performance issues. It’s essential to keep your iPhone updated to the latest iOS version.
How to update iOS:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update and follow the on-screen instructions to install any available updates.
6. Check Optimized Battery Charging Settings
If your iPhone stops charging at 80%, it might be due to the Optimized Battery Charging feature. This setting slows down charging to preserve long-term battery health.
How to disable Optimized Battery Charging:
- Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health and turn off Optimized Battery Charging.
Model-Specific Charging Issues and Fixes
Different iPhone models can have unique charging issues. Here’s a breakdown of common problems for specific models and how to troubleshoot them.
1. iPhone 12 Not Charging When Plugged In
For iPhone 12 users, the charging problem might stem from a dirty charging port, a worn-out cable, or battery calibration issues. If your iPhone 12 isn’t charging when plugged in, try the following:
- Clean the charging port carefully.
- Force restart the iPhone.
- Try wireless charging as a temporary solution.
2. iPhone 13 Not Charging When Plugged In
Charging problems on the iPhone 13 can also be related to outdated software or a faulty charging cable. Make sure to check for any software updates and test your charger with another iPhone to rule out hardware issues.
3. iPhone 14 & iPhone 15 Not Charging When Plugged In
With newer models like the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15, fast charging can sometimes cause issues, especially if the battery is not properly calibrated. Try resetting your phone and using a certified charger to ensure proper charging speed.
4. iPhone X Not Charging
If your iPhone X isn’t charging, it could be due to hardware issues with the charging port or Face ID interference. A quick reset or clearing any debris in the port can often solve the issue.
5. iPhone 8 and iPhone SE Charging Issues
Older models like the iPhone 8 or iPhone SE may suffer from port wear or battery degradation. If your iPhone won’t charge, check the health of your battery and the condition of the charging port.
Advanced Troubleshooting for Persistent Charging Problems
If you’ve tried all the basic fixes and your iPhone still isn’t charging, it may be time for more advanced troubleshooting.
1. Reset All Settings
Resetting your iPhone’s settings can often resolve persistent charging issues. This will reset your network settings, keyboard, and other preferences without erasing your data.
2. Restore iPhone via iTunes
If nothing else works, restoring your iPhone to its factory settings might fix the issue. Remember to back up your data before restoring.
3. Check for Hardware Damage
If all else fails, it’s possible your iPhone has a hardware problem, such as a damaged charging port or logic board. In this case, it’s best to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for professional help.
Wireless Charging Troubleshooting
If you’re using wireless charging and your iPhone won’t charge wirelessly, here are a few tips to help:
1. Ensure Wireless Charger Compatibility
Not all wireless chargers are the same. Be sure to use an Apple-certified wireless charger to avoid compatibility issues.
2. Remove Your iPhone Case
Sometimes, bulky or metal cases can interfere with wireless charging. Try charging your iPhone without the case to see if that resolves the issue.
3. Restart and Reposition Your iPhone
Ensure your iPhone is properly aligned on the charging pad. A quick restart and repositioning might clear any wireless charging glitches.
iPhone Stops Charging at 80%: What You Need to Know
If your iPhone stops charging at 80%, it could be due to the Optimized Battery Charging feature. This is designed to preserve long-term battery health by slowing charging once it hits 80%.
1. Understanding Optimized Battery Charging
This feature learns your charging habits and delays the final 20% of charging until you’re ready to use the phone again. It’s typically a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, you can turn it off.
2. Is It Normal for Your iPhone to Stop Charging at 80%?
Yes, it’s completely normal, but if you want to override it, simply disable Optimized Battery Charging in your settings.
When to Contact Apple Support or Visit an Apple Store
If you’ve tried all the steps above and your iPhone still won’t charge, it might be time to reach out to Apple Support.
1. Signs You Need Professional Repair
If your iPhone’s charging port is physically damaged, or if you suspect a more serious hardware issue, professional repair is needed.
2. How to Book an Appointment at the Apple Store
Booking a Genius Bar appointment is easy through the Apple Support app or the Apple website. Simply choose a time and location, and you’ll be ready for expert help.
Conclusion
Dealing with an iPhone that won’t charge can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, most issues can be resolved quickly. Start with simple solutions like restarting your phone, checking your charger, and cleaning the charging port. If the problem persists, consider resetting your settings or seeking professional assistance.
Did any of these steps help you fix your iPhone’s charging problem? Let us know in the comments below! For more tech tips, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter.
