iPhone Call Failed 13 Simple Steps To Fix It Now

My iPhone keeps showing ‘Call Failed’ whenever I try to make a call, even though my signal is strong. I restarted my phone, but it still doesn’t work. Does anyone know how to fix this?

This is a common issue for many iPhone users. If your calls go silent or people can’t hear you, see our iPhone Microphone Not Working guide. Here’s what you can do to solve call failures.

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What Does a Call Fail Mean on iPhone?

Sometimes, when you try to make a call, your iPhone shows “call failed.” This can also happen mid-call. It often points to weak reception, but sometimes the SIM card or settings can be the culprit.

Ways To Fix The iPhone Call Failed Error

1. Toggle Airplane Mode

Turning Airplane mode on and off can refresh your connection.

• Swipe down from the top-right of your screen (on newer iPhones).
• Tap the Airplane icon to enable, wait a few seconds, then tap again to disable.

2. Change Date & Time

Make sure the date and time are right, especially if you traveled recently.

• Connect to Wi-Fi.
• Go to Settings > General > Date & Time.
• Turn on Set Automatically.

3. Dial *#31#

This code disables outgoing caller ID blocking in case you set your number to be hidden. Just open the Phone app and dial *#31#.

You can also check manually:

• Open Settings > Phone.
• Tap Show My Caller ID.
• Make sure Show My Caller ID is on.

4. Check Your Blocked Contacts

Maybe the number you’re calling is blocked.

• Go to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts.
• If the contact is on that list, unblock it.

5. Restart Your iPhone

A quick restart can solve many issues.

• Press and hold Power + Volume Down (on newer devices) until you see the red slider.
• Slide to turn off.
• Wait 20 seconds, then press the same button to turn it on again.

6. Ensure Cellular Data and Roaming Is On

Go to Settings > Cellular and turn on Cellular Data. If you’re traveling abroad, enable Data Roaming under Cellular Data Options.

7. Carrier Settings Update

Sometimes your carrier settings need an update.

• Connect your iPhone to the internet.
• Go to Settings > General > About.
• If an update is available, you’ll see a prompt.

8. Temporarily Disable LTE

LTE can sometimes cause call issues.

• Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Option > Voice & Data.
• Choose 3G and see if calls go through.

9. Reinsert Your SIM Card

Take out your SIM and check for damage or dirt. Even a tiny amount of debris can disrupt the connection. If you have a spare SIM card from your carrier, try swapping it to confirm if the original SIM is at fault.

• Use a SIM-eject tool or paperclip to open the tray carefully.
• Remove the SIM, wipe it gently with a soft cloth, then reinsert it.
• If possible, test the SIM in another phone. If it doesn’t work there, you’ll need a replacement from your carrier.

10. Call Your Carrier

If you suspect a SIM or network problem, contact your carrier. They can check for outages or provide a new SIM if needed.

11. Update Your iOS

Bugs in older iOS versions can cause call problems.

• Make sure you’re on Wi-Fi with good battery life.
• Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
• Tap Install Now if an update is available.

12. Reset All Network Settings

This resets Wi-Fi, cellular, and VPN settings but not your data.

• Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
• Tap Reset.
• Choose Reset Network Settings.

13. Erase iPhone

If all else fails, you can erase your iPhone to reset everything. Back up your data first.

• Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
• Enter your passcode if needed.
• Tap Erase iPhone to confirm.

If you still can’t make calls, contact the Apple Genius Bar or an authorized service provider.

FAQs

Why does my iPhone keep saying “Call Failed”?

This happens when you have a weak signal or software glitch. Try toggling Airplane mode, checking carrier updates, or restarting your phone.

Do I need to replace my SIM card?

Only if it’s damaged or not recognized. Test the SIM in another phone or call your carrier to see if you need a replacement.

How do I disable call blocking?

Open the Phone app and dial *#31# to disable outgoing caller ID blocking. You can also turn on Show My Caller ID in Settings.

Can poor date and time settings cause this error?

Yes. If your date and time are not set automatically, it can lead to network problems. Enable “Set Automatically” in Settings.

Will erasing my iPhone delete everything?

Yes. It removes all data and resets the phone to factory settings. Back up your data first if you plan to erase your iPhone.