How to Fix iPhone Won’t Restart: Top Solutions

When your iPhone won’t restart, it can be alarming. This guide explains why this happens and how to fix it.

Key Takeaways

  • Software bugs, battery problems, and hardware malfunctions are the main reasons why an iPhone won’t restart.

  • Quick fixes like force restarting, charging, and updating iOS using iTunes can often solve restart issues.

  • If quick fixes fail, consider advanced solutions like resetting in recovery mode, using third-party software, or performing a factory reset. If all else fails, seek professional help from Apple Support.

Why Your iPhone Won’t Restart

iPhone Won't Restart

To fix a non-restarting iPhone, you first need to understand the causes. There are several potential culprits, ranging from minor software glitches to more serious hardware failures. We’ll analyze and explain the common causes of this issue.

Firstly, software bugs and glitches can play a significant role. Software updates, while necessary, can sometimes introduce bugs that prevent an iPhone from restarting properly. Frequent crashes and app freezing are common indicators of such issues.

Secondly, battery problems are another common cause. A completely drained or faulty battery can stop an iPhone from restarting. In some cases, a degraded battery can cause frequent restarts, making it hard for the device to boot up properly.

Lastly, hardware malfunctions cannot be ignored. Issues with internal components, including physical damage to the motherboard, can cause an iPhone to become unresponsive and fail to restart. We will now examine each of these issues in detail and suggest potential solutions.

Software Bugs and Glitches

Software bugs or glitches can turn your iPhone into a stubborn brick. Imagine your iPhone freezing right when you need it most because of problematic apps. This can happen when the slider appears on screen but doesn’t move, or when notifications keep popping up without end.

Addressing these issues may involve:

  • Deleting problematic apps

  • Waiting for bug-fixing updates

  • Restarting your device

  • Connecting your iPhone to a computer to update or restore via iTunes

Sometimes, simply restarting your device can release it from its frozen state. If the same issue persists, connecting your iPhone to a computer to update or restore via iTunes can be a lifesaver.

Battery Problems

Iphone battery

Battery issues are another common reason your iPhone might not restart. A degraded battery can cause erratic behavior, including frequent restarts and an inability to hold a charge. Imagine trying to use your device only to find it frozen or unable to power on because the battery is completely drained.

If the battery is swollen or damaged, it’s time to take immediate action. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Plug your iPhone into a reliable power source.

  2. Wait for at least an hour before trying to restart it.

  3. Ensure you use a genuine Apple Lightning cable and adapter for the correct charging of your device.

Hardware Malfunctions

Hardware malfunctions can be a bit trickier to diagnose and fix. Physical damage to internal components, such as the motherboard, can prevent your iPhone from restarting. Malfunctioning power buttons can also hinder the restart process.

In such cases, a hard reset might be necessary, but this method can result in data loss. If your device becomes unresponsive due to hardware issues, it may be time to connect your iPhone to a PC and use iTunes to attempt a fix.

Quick Fixes for iPhone Won’t Restart

A non-restarting iPhone doesn’t always require advanced solutions. At times, simple quick fixes might resolve the problem. We will discuss three primary quick fixes: force restarting, charging, and updating iOS via iTunes.

Firstly, a force restart can often jolt your iPhone back to life. Depending on your iPhone model, the steps to force restart can vary. If your device is frozen or stuck, this method can be incredibly effective.

A one-hour charge using authentic Apple accessories can help rectify low battery-related issues.

Lastly, if your device is still unresponsive, updating the iOS using iTunes can help resolve any software-related issues.

Force Restart Your iPhone

Illustration of a hand performing a force restart on an iPhone

Force restarting your iPhone can be a quick way to resolve many issues. For iPhone 8 or later models, quickly press and quickly release the Volume Up button, then quickly release the volume Down button, and finally hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.

For iPhone 7 or 7 Plus, hold the power and volume buttons (including Volume Down and Sleep/Wake) simultaneously for a button press until you see the Apple logo.

For older models like the iPhone SE (1st generation), press and hold both the Home button and the Side or Top button until the Apple logo appears.

Charge Your iPhone

If your iPhone won’t restart due to a low battery, follow these steps:

  1. Ensure you’re using a genuine Apple Lightning cable and adapter.

  2. Connect your iPhone to a power source.

  3. Let it charge for at least an hour before attempting to turn it on again.

Seeing the Apple logo appear can be a reassuring sign that your device is receiving power. If it still doesn’t restart, try a force restart while it’s connected to the charger.

Update iOS Using iTunes

Updating iOS using iTunes can fix many software-related restart issues. Connect your iPhone to a computer, open iTunes or Finder, and select your device. Follow the prompts to update the iOS.

This method can also be useful if your device is stuck in recovery mode. Updating the operating system can sometimes resolve issues that a simple restart cannot.

Advanced Solutions if Quick Fixes Fail

If the immediate solutions fail, you may need to consider more advanced alternatives. These alternatives range from resetting your iPhone in recovery mode, utilizing third-party software, to performing a factory reset.

Resetting your iPhone in recovery mode can help when a force restart isn’t working. Third-party software like AnyFix or Dr.Fone can offer more specialized solutions without data loss. As a last resort, a factory reset can wipe your device clean and resolve any persistent issues.

Reset iPhone in Recovery Mode

Illustration of an iPhone in recovery mode

First, connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes. Then, put it into recovery mode to reset it. For iPhone 8 or later, quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down, and hold the Side button until the recovery mode screen appears.

For iPhone 7 models, hold the Top (or Side) and Volume Down buttons together until you see the recovery mode screen. For older models, hold the Home and Top (or Side) buttons until the recovery mode screen appears. Follow the prompts in iTunes to restore or update your device.

Use Third-Party Software

Third-party software like AnyFix, Dr.Fone, and Tenorshare ReiBoot can be lifesavers when it comes to fixing restart iPhone issues. These apps offer various system repair options that can resolve issues without causing data loss.

For instance, AnyFix can help fix iPhone restart issues by selecting the appropriate repair mode and downloading the necessary firmware. Dr.Fone’s Repair feature is another excellent tool for addressing iOS issues without data loss.

Factory Reset Your iPhone

Performing a factory reset can be a last resort to fix persistent restart issues. Before doing this, ensure you back up your data using iCloud or a computer.

To factory reset your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone, and choose ‘Erase All Content and Settings’. Alternatively, you can connect your iPhone to a computer and use iTunes to restore it to factory settings.

When to Seek Professional Help

If all the suggested solutions fail and your iPhone still doesn’t restart, professional assistance may be necessary. Sometimes, the problem is beyond what you can fix at home and requires expert attention.

Your first step should be to reach out to Apple Support. They can assist with further troubleshooting and arrange for repairs if needed. If your device exhibits unusual symptoms like frequent crashes or overheating, it’s best to consult with Apple Support.

Contacting Apple Support

Apple Support provides assistance in several ways, such as live chat, phone support, and online repair request setup. You can reach them through their official website or by using the Apple Support app.

For immediate help, you can also reach Apple Support through social media platforms like Twitter. If your iPhone remains unresponsive despite trying all recommended steps, professional help is necessary.

Visiting an Apple Store

An Apple Store visit gives access to advanced diagnostic tools typically not available to regular users. The technicians at Apple Stores are well-equipped to identify and fix hardware issues that might be causing your iPhone to be unresponsive.

If a diagnostic test at an Apple Store reports an issue, it usually indicates a real problem that needs professional repair. The expertise of Apple Store technicians can be invaluable in resolving difficult hardware problems.

Summary

In summary, there are multiple reasons your iPhone might not restart, ranging from software glitches to hardware malfunctions. Quick fixes like force restarting, charging, and updating iOS can often resolve the issue. If these don’t work, advanced solutions such as resetting in recovery mode, using third-party software, or performing a factory reset may be necessary.

Remember, if all else fails, seeking professional help from Apple Support or visiting an Apple Store can provide the expertise and tools needed to get your device back in working order. Don’t let a stubborn iPhone get you down – armed with this guide, you’re ready to tackle any restart issue that comes your way!

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my iPhone won’t restart after a software update?

If your iPhone won’t restart after a software update, try force restarting it. If that doesn’t work, update the iOS using iTunes or contact Apple Support.

How can I tell if my iPhone’s battery is causing restart issues?

Try charging your iPhone with a genuine Apple charger for at least an hour. If it still frequently restarts or struggles to hold a charge, the battery might be the issue.

What are the signs of hardware malfunctions causing restart problems?

If your device has physical damage, unresponsive buttons, and fails to restart even after quick fixes, it’s likely experiencing hardware malfunctions causing restart problems. Look into getting it checked as soon as possible.

Can third-party software really fix my iPhone without data loss?

Yes, third-party software like AnyFix and Dr.Fone can fix iPhone issues without causing data loss.

When should I visit an Apple Store for restart issues?

You should visit an Apple Store for restart issues when your iPhone remains unresponsive after trying troubleshooting steps. They can provide advanced diagnostics and professional repair services.

Author

  • Theresa McDonough

    Tech entrepreneur and founder of Tech Medic, who has become a prominent advocate for the Right to Repair movement. She has testified before the US Federal Trade Commission and been featured on CBS Sunday Morning, helping influence change within the tech industry.

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