If your iPhone Not Turning On, you’re not alone. Whether it’s stuck on a black screen, showing the Apple logo but not loading, or refusing to respond entirely, the problem can be nerve-wracking—especially when you rely on it for work, messages, and everyday life.
This comprehensive iPhone troubleshooting guide will help you diagnose the cause and fix the problem step-by-step—whether you own the latest iPhone 16 or an older model like the iPhone 6.
Why an iPhone Won’t Turn On – Common Causes
Before we fix it, we need to identify the reason your iPhone is unresponsive. The causes typically fall into five main categories.
1. Drained or Dead Battery
The most common reason an iPhone doesn’t power up. A completely discharged battery can take several minutes of charging before showing signs of life.
2. iOS Software Crash or Glitch
System freezes, buggy apps, or incomplete iOS updates can leave your device stuck on a black screen or frozen on the Apple logo.
3. Faulty Charging Cable, Adapter, or Port
A damaged Lightning cable, worn charging brick, or dirty charging port can prevent the battery from receiving power.
4. Physical or Water Damage
Drops, impacts, or liquid exposure can damage essential internal components like the logic board or display connectors.
5. Overheating or Cold Exposure
iPhones automatically shut down if they get too hot or too cold. They won’t turn on until they return to normal operating temperature.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix an iPhone That Won’t Turn On
Follow these troubleshooting steps in order—starting from the simplest and moving to advanced fixes.
Step 1: Charge Your iPhone Correctly
- Plug the iPhone into a reliable power source with an Apple-certified charger.
- Let it charge for at least 30 minutes.
- Look for the battery icon or Apple logo. If nothing appears, continue to the next step.
Pro Tip: Wireless charging can help confirm whether the Lightning port is the issue.
Step 2: Inspect and Clean the Charging Port
- Use a flashlight to check for dust, lint, or debris in the port.
- Carefully clean it with a wooden toothpick or plastic tool.
- Avoid metal objects to prevent damage.
Step 3: Try an Alternate Charging Setup
- Test with another charging cable and wall adapter.
- Use a different power outlet.
- If possible, try a wireless charging pad to bypass the Lightning port entirely.
Advanced Fixes: Force Restart, Recovery Mode & DFU Mode
If your iPhone still won’t power on, the issue may be software-related. These steps often revive unresponsive devices.
Force Restart Your iPhone
For iPhone 8 and Later (X, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16):
- Press and quickly release Volume Up.
- Press and quickly release Volume Down.
- Hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.
For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus:
Press and hold Volume Down + Side button until the Apple logo appears.
For iPhone 6s, SE (1st Gen), and Earlier:
Press and hold Home + Side/Top button until the Apple logo appears.
Use Recovery Mode
If a force restart fails:
- Connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac).
- Enter Recovery Mode (use the same button steps as a force restart, but keep holding until you see the “Connect to Computer” screen).
- Choose Update first (preserves data). If unsuccessful, select Restore (erases data).
Use DFU Mode (Last Resort)
- Connect the iPhone to your computer.
- Press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down.
- Hold the Side button until the screen turns black.
- While holding Side, press and hold Volume Down for 5 seconds.
- Release Side but keep holding Volume Down for 5–10 seconds until the screen stays black and your computer detects the device.
When to Contact Apple or a Repair Specialist
If none of these steps work, your iPhone may have a hardware fault such as a dead battery, faulty display, or damaged motherboard.
At this stage, contact Apple Support, visit an Apple Store, or go to an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
Prevent Future iPhone Power Problems
- Keep iOS updated to the latest version.
- Avoid exposing your iPhone to extreme temperatures or moisture.
- Always use certified charging accessories.
- Back up your iPhone regularly to iCloud or your computer.
Final Word
An iPhone that won’t turn on isn’t necessarily dead. By starting with simple checks and moving up to advanced methods like Recovery or DFU Mode, you can often bring it back to life. If these steps fail, professional repair is the safest route to protect your device and your data.
Phonebulance is your one-stop center!
Want to get the most out of your iPhone? At Phonebulance, we’re your one-stop center for all things smartphone! Whether you’ve cracked your screen, dropped it in water, or it’s simply acting sluggish, our certified technicians can diagnose and fix a wide range of issues. Contact us today or make an online appointment to learn more about our services and keep your smartphone connected and functioning like new!
Here is the list of our smartphone repair services:
- Apple iPhone
- Apple Watch
- Apple iPad
- Apple iPod
- Samsung Galaxy S Series
- Samsung Galaxy Note Series
Samsung Galaxy Tab - Google Pixel and Nexus
- OnePlus
- Other brands (LG, Motorola, HTC, Blackberry…)
Here is the list of our repair and fixing prices:
- iPhone LCD Screen Replacement
- iPhone Charging Port Replacement
- iPhone Battery Replacement (High Capacity)
- iPad screen replacement
- iPhone Back Camera Lens Replacement
- iPhone Rear Camera Repair
- iPhone Back Glass Repair Cost
Service Areas in Orange County South:
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