iPhone X Common Issues & Fixes

The iPhone X, released in 2017, introduced Face ID and an edge-to-edge OLED display, but owners commonly report problems like screen ghosting, Face ID failure, and unexpected shutdowns. Most of these issues can be resolved with software updates, recalibration, or simple settings changes, though a few require hardware repair. This guide covers the most frequent iPhone X problems and the practical steps to fix them.

Background: Why the iPhone X Has Unique Faults

The iPhone X was the first model to drop the home button and Touch ID, relying entirely on Face ID and gesture navigation. Its OLED display, while vibrant, is prone to burn-in and image retention—a trait shared with other OLED phones. The stainless steel frame and glass back are durable but can complicate battery replacements. Additionally, early units had a known issue where the display would become unresponsive to touch after a sudden temperature change, which Apple addressed with a recall program. Understanding these design choices helps explain why certain fixes differ from older iPhone models.

Screen Issues: Ghosting, Green Lines, and Unresponsive Touch

The most reported screen problems on the iPhone X include:

Ghosting or image retention: Faint outlines of previous content remain on screen. This is common on OLED panels. Try lowering brightness, enabling auto-brightness, and using a dark wallpaper. If it persists, a display replacement may be necessary.
Green or pink vertical lines: Often caused by a faulty display connector or a damaged OLED panel. A restart may temporarily fix it, but the screen usually needs service.
Unresponsive touch (cold weather issue): Some iPhone X units had a defect where the screen stopped responding to touch after a rapid temperature drop. Apple offered free display module replacement for affected devices. Check Apple’s support page for eligibility.

Before seeking repairs, try a force restart: press and quickly release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears. This clears temporary software glitches.

Face ID Not Working: Causes and Solutions

Face ID failure is one of the most frustrating iPhone X issues. If the screen says “Face ID is not available” or “Face ID has been disabled,” try these steps in order:

Clean the TrueDepth camera: Gently wipe the top of the screen with a soft, dry cloth. Dirt or oil can block the sensors.
Check for obstructions: Remove any screen protector or case that may cover the sensor area.
Reset Face ID: Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and tap “Reset Face ID,” then set it up again.
Update iOS: Ensure your iPhone runs the latest iOS version, as software bugs can disable Face ID.
Hardware failure: If none of the above works, the TrueDepth camera may be damaged. This requires repair, and third-party repairs may not restore Face ID due to Apple’s component pairing.

Battery Drain and Unexpected Shutdowns

Many iPhone X users notice rapid battery drain or sudden shutdowns at 20-30% remaining. This is often due to battery health degradation. Check your battery health under Settings > Battery > Battery Health. If “Maximum Capacity” is below 80% or the system reports a “significant degradation,” consider a battery replacement. Before that, try:

Check background app refresh: Settings > General > Background App Refresh and disable it for apps that don’t need it.
Enable Low Power Mode when needed.
Turn off unnecessary location services.
Reset all settings: Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings (this doesn’t delete your data).

If shutdowns persist even after a battery replacement, a logic board issue may be the culprit—rare but possible.

Connectivity Problems: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Cellular

Connectivity issues are common on older iPhones. For Wi-Fi or Bluetooth dropping, try forgetting the network/device and reconnecting, or resetting network settings (Settings > General &em>Reset > Reset Network Settings). For cellular issues, ensure the carrier settings are updated (Settings > General > About—if an update is available, a prompt will appear). If you have poor signal, try toggling Airplane Mode on and off. If these don’t help, the antenna or baseband chip may be failing, which requires hardware service.

Camera and Speaker Malfunctions

The rear camera may fail to focus or show a black screen. First, clean the lens with a microfiber cloth. If the issue persists, force restart the phone. For a black screen in the camera app, close the app and reopen it. If the front camera or speaker sounds muffled, check for debris in the speaker grille and clean it gently with a soft brush. If audio is distorted during calls, disable noise cancellation in Settings > Accessibility > Audio/Visual—this has helped some users.

Software Glitches and Freezing

Many iPhone X problems stem from software bugs. If your phone freezes or apps crash frequently, try these steps:

Update iOS to the latest version.
Free up storage space (Settings > General > iPhone Storage).
Reset all settings as described earlier.
Restore the iPhone via a computer (backup first).

If the phone becomes completely unresponsive, force restart it. If it still won’t boot, put it into recovery mode and restore via a computer.

Costs and Repair Options

Repair costs vary widely. Apple’s out-of-warranty battery replacement is around $69, while screen replacement is roughly $279. Third-party repair shops may charge less, but quality varies. For Face ID issues, third-party repairs often can’t fix it because the sensor is paired to the logic board. Always check if your device is covered by AppleCare+ or any recall programs before paying. For DIY repairs, remember that opening the iPhone X is complex and risks damaging the display or Face ID components.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my iPhone X screen turn off randomly?

This can be caused by a faulty proximity sensor or a software glitch. Try updating iOS, resetting all settings, or checking if a screen protector is covering the sensor. If it persists, a hardware issue is likely.

Can I replace the battery myself?

Yes, but it’s risky. The iPhone X uses adhesive and delicate ribbon cables. If you’re experienced, use a high-quality battery and follow a guide. Otherwise, professional service is safer.

How do I know if my iPhone X is affected by the display recall?

Apple’s recall applies to units manufactured between November 2017 and April 2018 that exhibit touch issues after temperature changes. Enter your serial number on Apple’s support page to check eligibility.

Will a factory reset fix Face ID?

No. A factory reset won’t repair physical damage to the TrueDepth camera. It may help if the issue is software-related, but if the hardware is faulty, resetting won’t help.

Is it worth repairing an iPhone X in 2025?

It depends on the cost. If the repair is under $150 and the phone is otherwise in good condition, it may be worth it. However, the iPhone X won’t receive major iOS updates much longer, so consider the long-term value.

Why does my iPhone X get hot during charging?

Mild warmth is normal, but excessive heat may indicate a faulty battery or charger. Use Apple-certified chargers and avoid using the phone while charging. If it gets too hot, stop charging and seek service.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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