What to Do If Face ID Isn’t Working

Face ID® is one of the most convenient features Apple® has ever created—until it suddenly stops working. Whether it’s refusing to unlock your phone or not recognizing your face, it’s frustrating when a feature meant to make life easier slows you down. At Pull Up® Phone Repair, we help iPhone users get back to seamless performance fast. Here’s how to troubleshoot Face ID issues—and if nothing works, you can count on us for fast, on-site iPhone repair in New York.

Why Your Face ID Might Not Be Working

There are several reasons Face ID might stop recognizing you, and not all of them are obvious. Here are the most common culprits:

• Your iPhone model doesn’t support Face ID (only iPhone X and later).
  
• The camera lens is blocked or dirty.
  
• You’ve recently changed your appearance (beard, glasses, or mask).
  
• You haven’t updated your iOS in a while.
  
• You’ve made five failed attempts to unlock with Face ID.
  
• Your phone hasn’t been unlocked for 48 hours.
  
• You recently pressed the power/volume buttons together (which disables Face ID temporarily).
  

Understanding why it’s not working makes it easier to fix—so let’s walk through the steps to get your Face ID working again.

How to Fix Face ID on Your iPhone

Restart Your iPhone

Start simple. Restarting your phone clears temporary software glitches that can affect Face ID. Once it reboots, enter your passcode, then test Face ID again.

Check for iOS Updates

Outdated software is one of the most common reasons Face ID malfunctions.

1. Plug your phone into a charger and connect to Wi-Fi.
   
2. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
   
3. If an update is available, tap Install Now.
   

Keeping your software current ensures Face ID runs smoothly.

Review Face ID Settings

Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and enter your passcode if prompted. Make sure Face ID is toggled on for unlocking your phone, app logins, and Apple Pay.

Check Your Camera and Face Visibility

Clean and Unblock the TrueDepth Camera

Face ID relies on the TrueDepth® camera—the small lens that projects thousands of invisible dots to map your face. If it’s dirty or obstructed, Face ID won’t work.

• Wipe the camera lens with a soft, lint-free cloth.
  
• Check if your screen protector or case covers the camera.
  
• Avoid blocking the lens with your hand while unlocking.
  

Face the Camera Directly

Hold your iPhone vertically about 12–20 inches from your face, just like you’re taking a selfie. The TrueDepth camera needs a clear, centered view to recognize you.

Don’t Hide Your Face

For accurate recognition, make sure your eyes, nose, and mouth are fully visible. Remove sunglasses, masks, or hats that may interfere.

Advanced Fixes for Persistent Face ID Issues

Add an Alternate Appearance

If you’ve changed your look—grown a beard, dyed your hair, or switched to glasses—Face ID might need a new reference.

1. Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
   
2. Tap Set Up an Alternate Appearance.
   
3. Follow the prompts to complete the face scan.
   

This gives Face ID a second version of your appearance to recognize.

Reset Face ID

If Face ID still doesn’t work, it may need a full reset.

1. Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
   
2. Tap Reset Face ID.
   
3. Then tap Set Up Face ID and redo the scan.
   

Factory Reset Your iPhone (Last Resort)

If none of these fixes work, there may be a deeper software issue. Before performing a factory reset, back up your data via iCloud or iTunes.
Then:

1. Open Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
   
2. Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
   
3. Confirm and wait for your device to reset.
4. After setup, re-enable Face ID and test again.
   

When to Call the Professionals

If you’ve tried everything and your Face ID still won’t respond, it might be a hardware issue. The sensors or camera module may have been damaged—especially if your phone’s been dropped or exposed to water. Our technicians at Pull Up® Phone Repair specialize in diagnosing Face ID and front camera problems, and we’ll come directly to your location in Queens or New York to get your phone working again.

Conclusion 

Face ID is meant to make your iPhone experience faster, not frustrating. If it stops working, try these quick fixes to get it back on track. And if your iPhone still isn’t responding or the camera needs professional care, Pull Up® Phone Repair is here to help. Book your appointment today for mobile phone repair in Queens—we’ll come to you and restore your device in no time.