my phone says it detects moisture in the lightning adapter, it is bone dry.

Hi there, it sounds like that you're getting a liquid in lightning connector alert when the connector is not wet?

Please see this instructions in order to try and fix that, but your phone might be damaged and in need of service

If you see this alert every time you connect a certain cable or accessory, that cable or accessory might be damaged. Contact the manufacturer.

If you see this alert every time you connect an Apple Lightning cable or accessory, contact Apple Support.

See this link for further reference

If you see a liquid-detection alert on your iPhone - Apple Support