The USB-C port on my iPhone 16 Pro Max is not working for charging or data transfer.

Question

The USB-C port on my iPhone 16 Pro Max is not working for charging or data transfer.

I am experiencing an issue with the USB-C port on my iPhone 16 Pro Max, which is not working for charging or data transfer.

I brought my iPhone to the service center in Thailand. They investigated and found that it may have a problem caused by humidity or dust. However, after cleaning, it still does not work properly. They advised me to claim for repair because the phone is under warranty. At the same time, they informed me that if the defect was caused by humidity, it would not be covered under the warranty.

I am confident that my iPhone has never been dropped in water. There were only a few occasions when I had to walk through the rain while carrying it.

As far as I understand, the iPhone 16 Pro Max has an IP68 rating in accordance with IEC 60529. While Apple notes that water and dust resistance may decrease over time and with use, and that liquid damage is not covered by the warranty, my iPhone has only been used for around 9 months. I would like to clarify how this applies to my case.

iPhone 16 Pro Max

Posted on Sep 2, 2025 2:27 AM

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Answer 1

LotusPilot

Level 10

306,003 points

Sep 2, 2025 8:44 AM in response to Wanna.Mankarndee

Your iPhone reportedly has multiple LCIs (Liquid Contact Indicators) - these being located both internally and within specific openings. These are tiny chemical indicators that change colour if they make contact with water. LCIs are not obvious, being located in positions that may require optical aid or special tools to observe.

While your iPhone 16 Pro is technically water resistant, if any of the LCIs show contact with water, Apple may still reject a warranty claim.

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Answer 2

LD150

Level 10

103,838 points

Sep 2, 2025 3:14 AM in response to Wanna.Mankarndee

Apple will always check for moisture and if found will reject any warranty claim.

It is really advisable with such a valuable asset to buy AppleCare+ at the time of purchase as such repairs are usually 2/3 the cost of a new phone.

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Answer 3

Sep 2, 2025 3:34 AM in response to LD150

Thank you very much for sharing. I am clear now. Under the IP68 standard, moisture should not be present inside the device. If it is found, it indicates a product quality issue. In that case, I believe Apple should not reject my warranty claim.

Do you think my understanding is correct?

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Answer 4

Bob Timmons

Level 10

188,434 points

Sep 2, 2025 6:10 PM in response to Wanna.Mankarndee

I believe Apple should not reject my warranty claim.

Apple will reject any claim if they detect water damage.....unless you have AppleCare+.

Unfortunately, users tend to forget that water resistance does not imply waterproof.

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Answer 5

LD150

Level 10

103,838 points

Sep 2, 2025 4:05 AM in response to Wanna.Mankarndee

understandable but naïve in the current situation, sorry. Apple have put in enough small print to cover themselves.

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The USB-C port on my iPhone 16 Pro Max is not working for charging or data transfer.

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