9 Ways To Fix a Call Failed Message on Your iPhone in 2024

Resolve iPhone call failures with easy steps: check connections, update software, reset network settings, and contact carrier or Apple support.

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By Abhishek Chandel in PC
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9 Ways To Fix a Call Failed Message on Your iPhone

9 Ways To Fix a Call Failed Message on Your iPhone

Are you also facing a "Call failed message on your iPhone"? Don't panic. A call failure notice can pop up for various reasons - but it doesn't mean your phone is busted. Most call issues can be resolved with simple troubleshooting. In this post, I'll outline the top 9 ways to fix a call failed message on your iPhone. Follow these straightforward troubleshooting steps to get rid of that pesky "Call Failed" message for good. Your iPhone's call functions will be back up and running in no time.

1. Check Your Cellular Data/WiFi Connection

The most common reason for call failures is weak cellular or WiFi signal. Follow these steps to check your connection:

  1. Open the Settings app and tap "Cellular" or "Wi-Fi" depending on your calling mode.

  2. Check the signal strength indicator in the upper right corner. 1-2 bars indicates a weaker signal.

  3. If signal is low, move closer to a window where reception may improve.

  4. For WiFi calling, get closer to your wireless router or access point.

  5. Disable WiFi and toggle to make test calls over cellular data instead.

  6. Run a speed test to verify you have adequate bandwidth for calls.

If the signal strength appears fine, move on to the next fixes below. But a weak cellular or WiFi network is the number one culprit for call failures.

2. Toggle Airplane Mode On/Off

Toggling Airplane mode is an easy way to reset all network connections on your iPhone. Follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings and tap on "Airplane Mode" to toggle it On.

  2. Wait 30 seconds with Airplane Mode enabled to let connections reset.

  3. Now tap Airplane Mode again to turn it Off.

  4. This will refresh your cellular data, WiFi, Bluetooth, and other connections.

  5. Make a test call to see if it works properly after the reset.

3. Update iOS Software

Apple releases iOS updates to fix bugs, including issues that may interfere with calling. Here's how to update:

  1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.

  2. Download and install any iOS updates showing as available.

  3. Connect to power and WiFi to install quickly without data overages.

  4. The latest update may have a fix for any call connectivity bugs.

  5. Restart your iPhone after the update completes.

4. Reset Network Settings

Resetting network settings essentially renews all network connections on your device. Here are the steps:

  1. Go to Settings > General > Reset.

  2. Tap "Reset Network Settings" - this will not erase any data.

  3. This resets WiFi, cellular data, Bluetooth and other connections.

  4. It will forget saved WiFi networks so you'll need to rejoin your home/work WiFi.

  5. Make a test call after it finishes restarting.

5. Remove and Reinsert SIM Card

Sometimes reseating the SIM card properly can fix connectivity issues:

  1. Locate the SIM card slot on your iPhone.

  2. Use the SIM tool to gently pop out the SIM card.

  3. Check the card and slot for any damage or debris.

  4. Use a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol to clean the SIM contacts.

  5. Allow it to fully dry before carefully reinserting the SIM card.

  6. Make a test call to see if the issue is resolved.

6. Try a Different SIM Card

Determine if the problem is isolated to your SIM card or phone number:

  1. Obtain a different SIM card from another device or carrier.

  2. Power off your iPhone and insert the spare SIM card.

  3. Power your phone back on and make a test call.

  4. If calls work fine, then your original SIM is likely defective.

  5. Contact your carrier for a free SIM replacement.

7. Contact Carrier Support

Since call failures are often network-related, calling your carrier support can pinpoint and fix the issue:

  1. Contact your carrier's technical support line.

  2. Inform them of the call failure issues you're experiencing.

  3. Provide any troubleshooting steps you've tried so far without success.

  4. They can run diagnostics tests from their end to spot network problems.

  5. Support can reset network settings associated with your account if needed.

8. Backup and Restore iPhone

If all else fails, completely erasing and setting up your iPhone as new may resolve persistent call failures:

  1. Backup your iPhone data via iTunes or iCloud beforehand.

  2. Go to Settings > General > Reset and choose "Erase All Content and Settings".

  3. This will wipe your device back to factory settings - and fix any software issues.

  4. Once it restarts, go through the setup process from scratch.

  5. Download your backup to restore your data and apps.

  6. Make test calls to see if the problem is fixed after the full restore.

9. Contact Apple Support

If call failures persist across all troubleshooting, you may need to contact Apple Support:

  1. Make an appointment at an Apple Store Genius Bar for in-person troubleshooting.

  2. Or call Apple Support to speak to a representative by phone for help.

  3. They can run diagnostic tests to spot any iPhone hardware defects causing call issues.

  4. Apple Support can facilitate a replacement phone if they determine hardware failure.

Conclusion

Call-failed problems may require patience but are solvable in most cases. Try these troubleshooting steps one by one until the normal calling function returns. Don't hesitate to leverage carrier or Apple support if needed - that's what they're there for! With diligence, you can get your iPhone connecting calls reliably again.

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