If your iPhone suddenly turns off and refuses to turn back on, it can be a frustrating and worrisome experience. However, there are several steps you can take to diagnose and potentially fix the issue.
Why Does Your iPhone Shut Down Randomly?
Your iPhone may shut down randomly due to various reasons, including high temperature, software bugs, app crashes, water damage, or glitches picked up during regular use. Additionally, poor battery health can also cause your iPhone to keep turning off.
How to Fix an iPhone That Won’t Turn Back On
1. Force Restart Your iPhone
A force restart, also known as a hard reset, is often the simplest and most effective way to get your iPhone back on. Here’s how to do it for different iPhone models:
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For iPhone 8 and later models:
- Quickly press and release the volume up button.
- Immediately press and release the volume down button.
- Press and hold the Power/Sleep button until you see the Apple logo appear on the screen.
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For iPhone 7 & 7 Plus:
- Press and hold the volume down and power buttons until the Apple logo appears.
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For iPhone 6, 6s, or SE (1st-gen):
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Press and hold the power and home buttons.
2. Charge Your iPhone
If a force restart doesn’t work, it’s possible that your iPhone’s battery is completely drained. Here’s what you should do:
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Charge your iPhone:
- Connect your iPhone to a power adapter and plug it into a wall outlet.
- Let it charge for at least 15 to 30 minutes before trying to turn it on again.
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Check the charging cable and port:
- Ensure the charging cable is not damaged and the Lightning port is free from debris.
3. Let the iPhone Cool Down
High temperatures can cause your iPhone to shut down. If your iPhone has been exposed to heat, let it cool down before trying to turn it on again:
- Cool down your iPhone:
- Move your iPhone to a cooler environment.
- Avoid using it on a wireless charger or in direct sunlight until it has cooled down.
4. Update Your iPhone
Software issues can also cause random shutdowns. Make sure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS:
- Update your iPhone:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update to download and install the latest version of iOS.
5. Reset All iPhone Settings
If your iPhone continues to shut down, resetting all settings might help:
- Reset all settings:
- Go to Settings > General > Reset and select Reset All Settings. This will reset your settings to their default values without deleting your data.
6. Check for Water Damage
Water damage can be a significant cause of random shutdowns. Here’s how to check for it:
- Check the Liquid Contact Indicator (LCI):
- Locate the LCI, which is usually found in the SIM card tray or near the charging port.
- If the LCI is red, it indicates water damage.
7. Check for Hardware Problems
If none of the above steps work, there might be a hardware issue:
- Inspect for physical damage:
- Check for any visible signs of physical damage, such as cracks or dents.
- If you suspect hardware damage, it may be necessary to contact Apple for repairs.
Additional Troubleshooting Steps
Clear Cache and System Data
Corrupted data can sometimes prevent your iPhone from turning on. Clearing cache and system data can help:
- Clear cache and system data:
- Regularly clear your iPhone’s cache and system data to ensure smooth performance.
Check for Misbehaving Apps
Sometimes, a particular app can cause issues. Try deleting recently installed apps to see if it resolves the problem:
- Delete problematic apps:
- If you suspect an app is causing the issue, delete it and see if your iPhone turns on normally.
Restore in DFU Mode
If all else fails, you might need to restore your iPhone in DFU (Device Firmware Upgrade) mode:
- Put your iPhone into DFU mode:
- Connect your iPhone to a computer and open iTunes or Finder.
- Press and hold the side button and volume down button simultaneously for 10 seconds.
- Release the side button but keep holding the volume down button until your iPhone appears in iTunes or Finder.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to restore your iPhone.
By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and potentially fix the issue of your iPhone turning off on its own and not turning back on.