iPhone won’t charge? Here’s how to fix it

Fast fix

• First, check your charging cable and wall adapter for damage.
• Clean your iPhone® charging port with a dry, soft brush to remove dust or debris.
• Restart your phone to reset any temporary software issues.
• If those steps don’t work, try another Apple®-certified cable and charger.

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Few things are as stressful as plugging in your iPhone® and seeing nothing happen. Whether your battery is low or completely drained, a charging problem can quickly disrupt your day. Don’t worry—there are a few easy fixes you can try at home before heading in for repair.

Why your iPhone won’t charge

Several common issues can keep your phone from charging properly:

• Damaged cable or adapter — Frayed or off-brand accessories may fail or even harm your device. Learn more about why your phone charger isn’t working.
• Dirty charging port — Dust, lint, or debris can block the connection.
• Software glitches — A frozen app or system bug can interfere with charging.
• Battery or hardware damage — If your iPhone has been dropped or exposed to water, internal components may need attention.

How to fix iPhone charging problems

Try these steps to see if you can get your phone charging again.

Check your charging accessories

Examine your cable and adapter for frays or bent prongs. To rule out accessory issues, try using an Apple-certified Lightning cable and power adapter.

Clean the charging port

Use a clean, dry toothbrush or small anti-static brush to gently remove lint or dirt from the Lightning port. Avoid using liquids or metal objects.

Restart your iPhone

Sometimes a quick restart clears temporary glitches and gets your phone charging again.

Update iOS

Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install the latest iOS version. Updates often include fixes for charging bugs.

Try wireless charging

If you have a wireless charging-capable iPhone, place it on a Qi-compatible charger. If it charges wirelessly but not with a cable, the port may be damaged.

Reset settings (last resort)

If nothing else works, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. This won’t erase your data but will restore default settings.

When to get professional help

If your iPhone still won’t charge after trying these fixes, it may be a hardware problem. You should visit your nearest uBreakiFix by Asurion store if:

• Your phone only charges at certain angles.
• The charging port looks damaged.
• Your iPhone has signs of water damage.
• The battery drains unusually fast or won’t hold a charge.

At uBreakiFix by Asurion, our experts can diagnose the problem and complete same-day charging port or battery repairs. If you have coverage, you may also want to check out how to file a phone insurance claim with Asurion.

How to prevent future charging problems

• Use Apple-certified cables and adapters.
• Avoid over-bending your charging cable.
• Keep your iPhone’s charging port clean and dry.
• If your device has been exposed to water, follow these steps to fix a water-damaged phone.
• Consider wireless charging to reduce wear on the port.

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FAQ

Why is my iPhone not charging when plugged in?

It could be due to a damaged cable or adapter, dirt in the charging port, software issues, or hardware damage.

Can a bad battery cause my iPhone not to charge?

Yes. If your battery is failing, your iPhone may refuse to charge or lose power quickly. A replacement may be necessary. Learn more about signs your phone battery is dying.

How much does it cost to repair an iPhone charging port?

Costs vary depending on your model and location, but uBreakiFix by Asurion offers free diagnostics and same-day repairs in many cases.

Should I use third-party charging accessories?

It’s best to use Apple-certified cables and adapters. Third-party accessories may not work reliably and could damage your iPhone.

Why does my iPhone only charge sometimes?

Intermittent charging is often caused by a loose or dirty port, a damaged cable, or internal wear on the charging components.

What should I do if my iPhone charges slowly?

Check that you’re using an Apple-certified fast charger, close background apps, and clean the charging port. If it’s still slow, the battery may need replacement.