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How to Fix an iPhone That Keeps Losing Signal or Drops Calls

July 31, 2025
Magnifying glass highlighting a smartphone screen with no signal or disconnected Wi-Fi icon

Is your iPhone constantly losing signal or dropping calls at the worst possible moment? Whether you’re on a business call, checking in with a loved one, or trying to order food—poor signal can turn a smart device into a frustrating brick.

Network reliability is essential, and frequent disconnections often signal more than just a coverage issue. At TPK Wireless, our expert technicians have helped thousands troubleshoot these signal problems with successful long-term fixes. This guide walks you through every potential cause and solution—backed by Apple’s support documentation and trusted sources.


Why Is My iPhone Dropping Calls or Losing Signal?

Let’s start by understanding the problem. Several factors can impact signal stability:

1. Weak Carrier Coverage

Even the best smartphones are at the mercy of carrier signals. If you're in a dead zone or an area with poor tower distribution, signal loss is inevitable.

2. SIM Card Issues

A worn, damaged, or improperly placed SIM card can cause signal dropouts. It's like trying to drive with a flat tire—it just doesn’t work right.

3. Software Bugs or Outdated iOS

Glitches in iOS updates or failing to update your phone at all can interrupt how the device communicates with networks.

4. Physical Damage to the Antenna

Dropped phones or liquid damage can break internal antennas. If your phone recently took a fall, this might be the root cause.

5. Background App Interference

Apps that run location services constantly can interfere with signal management, especially if they're misconfigured.

6. Carrier Settings Not Updated

Your iPhone also gets invisible updates called carrier settings. If these are outdated, your phone may not fully connect to the network.


Step-by-Step Fixes for iPhone Signal Loss

Let’s dive into practical solutions. Start from the top and move down until your issue is resolved.


📱 1. Restart Your iPhone

This may sound simple, but it's incredibly effective. Restarting clears minor bugs and refreshes your device’s connection to the carrier.

Press and hold the power button → Slide to power off → Wait 30 seconds → Turn it back on.


🔄 2. Toggle Airplane Mode

Quickly disable and re-enable signal reception by doing this:

  • Go to Settings > Tap Airplane Mode ON
  • Wait 10 seconds
  • Turn Airplane Mode OFF again

This forces the phone to reconnect with the network.


🧩 3. Update iOS and Carrier Settings

  • Head to Settings > General > Software Update
  • Also check Settings > General > About (wait 5 seconds to see a Carrier Settings Update popup)

📎 Apple Support – Update your iPhone


💾 4. Reinsert or Replace Your SIM Card

  • Power off the phone
  • Use a SIM ejector or paperclip to remove the SIM tray
  • Wipe the SIM gently
  • Reinsert and restart the device

If the issue persists, consider replacing the SIM at your carrier store.


🔁 5. Reset Network Settings

This resets Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, VPN, and cellular settings:

  • Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings

📍 6. Disable Wi-Fi Calling & LTE (Temporarily)

  • Go to Settings > Cellular > Wi-Fi Calling > Turn OFF
  • Then go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Enable LTE → Select Data Only

This helps if your phone is struggling to decide between LTE and Wi-Fi.


🛠️ 7. Check for Physical Damage

Inspect your iPhone for cracks, water damage signs, or warping. Internal antennas can be affected even if your screen seems fine. If damaged, visit TPK Wireless’s iPhone Repair for a full inspection.


🌐 8. Try in Different Locations

If the signal improves outside or in another city, it's a coverage issue. Consider switching carriers if your area isn’t supported.


📲 9. Run Apple Diagnostics

Visit Apple's Support Page and select Start Diagnostics. You’ll need your Apple ID.


🔄 10. Restore Your iPhone (Factory Reset)

Only do this as a last resort:

  • Backup via iCloud or iTunes
  • Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings

This resolves stubborn software-level issues.


When to Seek Professional Help

If you've tried all the above and still experience dropped calls or weak signals, it’s time to visit the pros. At TPK Wireless, we specialize in identifying:

  • Antenna replacement needs
  • Logic board issues
  • Liquid damage corrosion
  • Faulty baseband processors

Book an appointment or walk in—we provide fast diagnostics and affordable iPhone Repair Services.


Other Devices Can Have Similar Issues

If you’re having the same problem with a Samsung or Android phone, you might want to explore:

We handle a wide range of devices beyond iPhones.


Trade-In or Upgrade?

Sometimes, your phone might be beyond repair. Instead of tossing it, check out our Sell Your Device program to get credit towards a new one.


About TPK Wireless

With years of experience and thousands of successful repairs, TPK Wireless has become a go-to spot for mobile device fixes. We offer screen repair, battery replacement, water damage recovery, signal troubleshooting, and more.

Check out our full range of services and helpful blog guides for more expert content.


FAQs

❓Why does my iPhone lose signal even with full bars?

Full bars don’t always mean quality signal. You could be connected to a congested or malfunctioning tower. Reset your network settings and check if others nearby are facing the same issue.


❓How do I know if it’s a hardware issue?

If your signal only improves with an external antenna or SIM change doesn’t help, the internal antenna or logic board could be faulty.


❓Will a factory reset fix signal problems?

Sometimes, yes. If the issue is software-related—like corrupt settings—it can resolve the issue. But always back up your phone before resetting.


❓Can I still make emergency calls with no signal?

Yes. Most iPhones allow emergency calls through any available network, even without service.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only. If you're experiencing signal issues or dropped calls, consult a licensed repair technician or your network provider before attempting any hardware fixes.

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