
iPhone 13 Won’t Turn On? Try These Fixes

Experiencing an iPhone 13 that won’t turn on can be frustrating, especially when you rely on your device for daily communication and tasks. If you woke up to a dead screen despite charging it overnight, you’re not alone. This article will explore potential reasons behind this issue and provide step-by-step troubleshooting methods to help you revive your iPhone 13.
Understanding the Problem
The iPhone 13 is designed to be reliable, but like any electronic device, it can occasionally encounter issues. Common scenarios that lead to an unresponsive phone include:
- Battery Drain: Sometimes, the battery may deplete unexpectedly.
- Software Glitches: A crash or bug in the operating system can cause the phone to freeze.
- Hardware Issues: Physical damage or defects can prevent the device from turning on.
- Charging Problems: Faulty chargers or cables may not provide sufficient power.
Understanding these possibilities can help in diagnosing the issue effectively.
Initial Troubleshooting Steps
Before diving into more complex solutions, there are a few basic steps you should try:
- Charge Your iPhone:
- Connect your iPhone to a charger and leave it plugged in for at least 30 minutes. Ensure that the charger and cable are functioning properly by testing them with another device if possible3.
- Try a Different Power Source:
- Plug the charger into a different outlet or use a computer USB port to rule out outlet issues1.
- Inspect the Charging Port:
- Check for debris or lint in the charging port that might be obstructing the connection. Clean it gently with a toothpick or a soft brush if necessary.
Performing a Hard Reset

If your iPhone still won’t turn on after charging, performing a hard reset may help clear temporary software issues:
- Hard Reset Instructions:
- Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
- Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
- Press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo (this may take 10-15 seconds).
This process forces your device to restart and can resolve minor software glitches.
Recovery Mode
If a hard reset does not work, entering Recovery Mode could be the next step:
- Enter Recovery Mode:
- Connect your iPhone to your computer using a Lightning cable.
- Open iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later).
- Follow the same button sequence as in the hard reset but keep holding the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen (a computer icon with a cable) 3.
Once in recovery mode, iTunes/Finder will prompt you to either update or restore your iPhone. Choose “Update” first; this attempts to reinstall iOS without erasing your data.
DFU Mode for Advanced Issues
If Recovery Mode fails, you might need to use DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode, which is more comprehensive:
- Entering DFU Mode:
- Connect your iPhone to your computer.
- Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
- Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
- Hold down the Side button until the screen goes black (about 10 seconds).
- While holding the Side button, press and hold Volume Down for 5 seconds, then release the Side button while continuing to hold Volume Down for another 10 seconds.
If done correctly, your screen will remain black while iTunes/Finder recognizes your device in DFU mode. You can then restore your iPhone, but be aware this will erase all data.
When All Else Fails
If none of these troubleshooting methods work, it may indicate a hardware issue. Here are some steps to consider:
- Contact Apple Support: Reach out to Apple Support for guidance or visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider for professional help. Since your iPhone is about a year old, it may still be under warranty or eligible for AppleCare+ coverage.
- Consider Repair Options: If hardware issues are confirmed, repair costs may vary depending on warranty status and damage extent.
Conclusion
Having an iPhone 13 that won’t turn on can be disheartening, but understanding potential causes and troubleshooting steps can help resolve most issues. Start with basic checks like charging and inspecting connections before moving on to resets and recovery modes. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance from Apple support. Remember that keeping your software updated and regularly checking battery health can help prevent future problems.
By following these guidelines, you can hopefully get your device back up and running smoothly!