Face ID Not Working? How to Fix It (Without Losing Data)

Did You Know?

Quick answer: Face ID failures are commonly caused by software issues, obstructions covering the TrueDepth camera, or hardware damage from drops. Clean the sensor area, check settings, and restart before assuming the hardware needs repair. If your camera isn't working either, these issues are often connected.

Face ID is one of the most convenient features on modern iPhones, but when it stops working, it affects unlocking, Apple Pay, app authentication, and more. If you've recently had screen repair, that could be the cause. This guide covers all the troubleshooting steps to restore Face ID functionality.

How Face ID Works

Face ID uses the TrueDepth camera system at the top of your iPhone screen. This includes:

• Infrared camera — Captures infrared images of your face
• Flood illuminator — Projects invisible infrared light
• Dot projector — Creates a 3D map using 30,000 dots
• Front camera — Works with other components

If any of these components are damaged or obstructed, Face ID won't work properly.

Common Causes of Face ID Failure

Software Issues

• iOS bugs affecting biometric authentication
• Face ID settings misconfigured
• Too many failed attempts (temporary lockout)
• Attention Awareness causing false rejections

Physical Obstructions

• Dirt, smudges, or debris on the TrueDepth camera
• Screen protector covering the sensor area
• Cases blocking the front camera notch
• Face coverings (masks, sunglasses) blocking recognition

Hardware Damage

• Drop damage to TrueDepth components
• Water damage affecting sensors
• Screen replacement that damaged Face ID flex cable
• Internal component failure

Troubleshooting Steps

Step 1: Clean the TrueDepth Camera Area

The TrueDepth camera is located in the notch (iPhone X-14) or Dynamic Island (iPhone 14 Pro and later). Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean this area. Remove any smudges, fingerprints, or debris.

Step 2: Remove Screen Protector and Case

Some screen protectors extend over the TrueDepth sensors and can interfere with Face ID. Remove any screen protector or case temporarily and test again.

Step 3: Check Face ID Settings

Go to Settings → Face ID & Passcode:

• Ensure Face ID is enabled for the features you need
• Check "Require Attention for Face ID" — disable if wearing sunglasses
• Turn on "Face ID with a Mask" if you need to unlock while masked

Step 4: Reset Face ID

Go to Settings → Face ID & Passcode → Reset Face ID. Then tap "Set Up Face ID" to enrol your face again. Make sure you're in good lighting and move your head slowly in a complete circle.

Step 5: Restart Your iPhone

A restart clears temporary software issues. Hold Side + Volume Down (iPhone X and later) until the power slider appears. Turn off, wait 30 seconds, turn back on.

Step 6: Update iOS

Face ID bugs are sometimes fixed in iOS updates. Go to Settings → General → Software Update and install any available updates.

Step 7: Reset All Settings

If software issues persist: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset All Settings. This won't delete data but resets system preferences including Face ID configuration.

Specific Face ID Scenarios

"Face ID is Not Available" Error

This message indicates Face ID hardware has been disabled:

• Often appears after a failed screen repair
• Can indicate TrueDepth camera flex cable damage
• May appear after significant drops
• Requires professional diagnosis to determine if repairable

Warning

Screen repairs: Face ID components are paired to your iPhone. Non-authorised screen repairs that damage or replace TrueDepth components will permanently disable Face ID. Always use qualified repair services.

Face ID Works Sometimes But Not Always

Intermittent Face ID issues are usually environmental:

• Poor lighting conditions (very bright or very dark)
• Significant appearance changes (new glasses, beard, makeup)
• Wet face or hands covering part of face
• Holding phone at unusual angles

Note: If your iPhone also has front camera issues, the problems may be related since they share TrueDepth components.

Face ID Stopped Working After Drop

Drop damage can affect Face ID in several ways. Even if the screen looks fine, internal components may be damaged. The TrueDepth camera system is sensitive and can be knocked out of alignment by impact.

Face ID Not Working After Screen Replacement

If Face ID stopped working after a screen repair, the TrueDepth camera flex cable may have been damaged during the repair. Only qualified technicians should perform screen replacements to avoid this issue. Some damage may be repairable by transferring the original Face ID components to a new screen.

Face ID Repair Options

Face ID repair is complex and not all damage is repairable. A professional diagnosis determines what's actually wrong and whether repair is possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Face ID be repaired or is it permanently broken?

Many Face ID issues can be repaired, depending on which component has failed. Flex cable damage and some sensor issues are repairable. However, certain types of damage (like dot projector failure on older models) may not be economically repairable.

Why did Face ID stop working after my screen was replaced?

Face ID uses components that are physically attached to the screen assembly. If these aren't carefully transferred to the new screen, Face ID will be disabled. Unfortunately, some repair shops don't have the expertise to perform this transfer correctly.

Is it worth fixing Face ID on an older iPhone?

This depends on the repair cost versus the phone's value. For iPhone X/XS models, repair may not be economical. For iPhone 11 and newer, Face ID repair is often worthwhile given the phones' remaining useful life.

Can I use my iPhone without Face ID?

Yes. If Face ID can't be repaired, you can still use your iPhone with passcode only. You'll lose convenient features like quick unlock and Apple Pay authentication, but the phone remains fully functional.