Why is the lock button on my iphone 4s stuck?

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Why is the lock button on my iphone 4s stuck?

Earlier today(without any interactiong from me) my phone went from the lock screen to a black screen. This kept up until I attempted to get out of the lock screen, but the bar would only move a few centimeters and then go back. There appeared to be no way for me to use the phone. I eventually did a soft reset and the phone came back as normal, but only to repeat this process.

A few soft resets later and the phone appeared to be working normally. However, I noticed my lock button did not work. Everything else on the phone functioned normally. I would press the lock button with no response. If I held the button in, it would lock the phone. About a minute or so after pressing the lock button, my phone either goes to the normal lock screen or I receive the "slide to power off" screen. It would appear there's a problem with the lock button, since my phone functions normally, otherwise. I am using iOS 6.1.3 and the phone is an iphone 4s 32 GB.

update:

The lock button appears to not work at all now. Even if I press and hold it.

iPhone 4S, iOS 6.1.3

Posted on Apr 17, 2013 8:42 AM

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Answer 1

Apr 17, 2013 10:51 AM in response to Beeps85

Assuming you mean the sleep/wake button(on top),

Try doing a hard reset: Press and hold both the Home button and the Sleep/wake button simultaneously for about 15 seconds and release when the Apple logo appears. Maybe this is what you meant by a soft reset.

If that doesn't solve the issue, you could also try backing up the device and restoring the device as new.

In that case, follow the steps in: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4137

NB: set up as a NEW device because a software issue will be in the backup. If the issue persists after restoring as new, you should offer the device for service.

If you're not able to restore the device, this one might help: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1808

Using his article will erase everything on the device, so make sure you have a backup!

Good luck 🙂

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Answer 2

brad805

Level 5

7,397 points

Apr 17, 2013 11:03 AM in response to Beeps85

Your iPhone seems to have several bad issues going on. The Lock Button is most likely damaged at the internal portion of the switch, there is a small plastic piece the size of this ( * ) that has most likely moved slightly or come loose. If there is Warranty or AppleCare this will be covered, make Genius resevation or set up service and take or send to Apple for resolution.

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Answer 3

Beeps85 Author

Level 1

0 points

Apr 17, 2013 11:08 AM in response to brad805

Since I'm the opposite of a genius, an idiot, without insurance, what would the aforementioned service cost? I will attempt to restore the phone as well, but given the fact the lock button performed a slow death this morning, going from workign fine to working sometimes to freezing and now simply not working at all, it seems like a hardware problem. :/

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Answer 4

brad805

Level 5

7,397 points

Apr 17, 2013 11:11 AM in response to Beeps85

With Apple this is handled with Replacement iPhone 4S, cost is $199. You can try Virtual Lock Button. Settings App > General > Accessibility > Assistive Touch > ON > tap new white screen button > Device > Lock Screen. This can even be used to turn iPhone OFF. To turn ON connect to power, charger or USB of computer.

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