Loose lightning connector?

Lately I have noticed that when using the earphones that came with my phone my music randomly stops, skips songs, Siri constantly interrupts, and my phone thinks I unplugged the earphones which requires me re-plugging it. I was about to buy a new pair of earphones but I actually narrowed the problem down to my earphones not being faulty (maybe a bit), but instead it is the lightning connector that doesn't hold the plugged in accessories properly.


The lightning connector holds the cable, so it doesn't fall out on it's own, but I am able to shake whatever cable is plugged in to the left and right, which makes my phone think I unplugged the current accessory, whether it be my earphones or my charger. This isn't a huge problem with my charger because my phone is stationary for most of the charging periods, but it renders my earphones unusable, since any movement, no matter how minimal it is, causes issues with whatever I am listening to/watching.


Does anyone know:

How much would repair costs?

Can it be due to the lightning hole being too dirty?

Can I attempt a repair myself?


Any tips and answers from people who experienced this before are highly appreciated!

iPhone 8 Plus, iOS 12

Posted on Apr 2, 2019 8:11 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 2, 2019 8:16 AM

If it's under warranty then it would be free. If your warranty has expired then they most likely wouldn't replace the lightning port but just replace your device with a refurbished unit for $399. I believe that replacement device would have a 90 day warranty. Before going that route however, use a light to shine into the port and see if there is any dust or debris. Use a toothpick and very carefully try to remove the dust and debris. I've been amazed at how much gets in there by keeping the phone in my pocket.


iPhone Repair - Official Apple Support

Similar questions

4 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 2, 2019 8:16 AM in response to gyorgy98

If it's under warranty then it would be free. If your warranty has expired then they most likely wouldn't replace the lightning port but just replace your device with a refurbished unit for $399. I believe that replacement device would have a 90 day warranty. Before going that route however, use a light to shine into the port and see if there is any dust or debris. Use a toothpick and very carefully try to remove the dust and debris. I've been amazed at how much gets in there by keeping the phone in my pocket.


iPhone Repair - Official Apple Support

Apr 2, 2019 8:21 AM in response to gyorgy98

gyorgy98 wrote:

......
Does anyone know:
How much would repair costs?
Can it be due to the lightning hole being too dirty?
Can I attempt a repair myself?
....

Yes, your charging port could be dirty. Gently clean it from debris/lint/dust using a toothpick, a soft brush, a strong flashlight and... a bit of patience.

If you get no improvements, do not try to change the charging port yourself.

Have your device inspected at an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider. After checking it, they'll give you all the available options and prices: Apple – Location Selector


Regards

Giulio

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Loose lightning connector?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.