If your Android phone suddenly shows “No SIM,” “SIM Card Not Detected,” or “No Service,” don’t panic. This issue is very common across Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Realme, Motorola, OnePlus, Vivo, and other Android brands.
The good news? You can fix most SIM detection issues at home — no technician required.
This guide covers every cause and solution, from simple software refreshes to deep hardware troubleshooting.
Why Your SIM Card Is Not Detected
The problem is usually caused by:
- Incorrect SIM tray placement
- Damaged or dirty SIM card
- Loose SIM tray
- Airplane mode glitches
- Network configuration errors
- Corrupted carrier settings
- Damaged SIM reader (hardware)
- Outdated software
Follow each fix step-by-step.
Fix 1: Restart Your Phone
This refreshes SIM services and solves temporary glitches.
- Hold the Power button
- Select Restart
Fix 2: Turn Airplane Mode On and Off
Airplane Mode resets all network radios.
- Swipe down notification panel
- Enable Airplane Mode
- Wait 10 seconds
- Disable Airplane Mode
Fix 3: Reinsert the SIM Card
Your SIM may be misaligned or loose.
Steps:
- Turn off your phone
- Use the SIM ejector tool to open tray
- Remove SIM and inspect it
- Put it back correctly
- Turn the phone back on
Fix 4: Clean the SIM Card
Dirt, dust, or oxidation can block the SIM reading.
Clean it gently with:
- A soft cloth
- A pencil eraser (light rub on the gold contacts)
Fix 5: Try the SIM in Another Phone
Check whether the SIM card itself is defective.
- If it works on another phone → your phone has the issue
- If it doesn’t work → your SIM is damaged or deactivated
Fix 6: Check SIM Tray for Damage
A bent SIM tray can cause poor contact between SIM and the reader.
- Inspect tray for cracks or bends
- Replace tray if damaged
Fix 7: Disable and Enable SIM in Settings
Android may disable SIM services by mistake.
- Go to Settings → SIM Cards & Mobile Networks
- Turn SIM OFF
- Wait 10 seconds
- Turn SIM ON
Fix 8: Reset Network Settings
This resets all mobile, WiFi, and Bluetooth configurations.
- Open Settings
- Tap System
- Select Reset Options
- Choose Reset WiFi, Mobile & Bluetooth
Fix 9: Enable the Correct Network Mode
If your phone is set to a network type unsupported by your carrier, the SIM won’t work.
- Go to Settings → Mobile Network
- Select Preferred Network Type
Choose:
- 4G/5G Auto (recommended)
Fix 10: Update Carrier Services
- Open Google Play Store
- Search “Carrier Services”
- Tap Update
Fix 11: Update Your Android Software
Outdated software may contain bugs affecting SIM recognition.
- Go to Settings → Software Update
- Tap Download and Install
Fix 12: Select Correct APN Settings
Your carrier’s APN (Access Point Name) may be misconfigured.
- Go to Settings → Mobile Network → Access Point Names (APN)
- Select your carrier or reset APN
Fix 13: Check for SIM Lock
If the phone is locked to another carrier, your SIM may not work.
You can check this in:
- Settings → About Phone → Status
Fix 14: Wipe Cache Partition
Corrupted system cache can affect network modules.
- Boot into Recovery Mode
- Select Wipe Cache Partition
Fix 15: Factory Reset (Last Resort)
This solves deep software issues.
WARNING: This deletes everything.
- Open Settings → System → Reset Options
- Select Erase All Data
Fix 16: When It’s a Hardware Problem
If none of the above fixes work, your phone likely has a damaged SIM reader.
You will need a technician if you notice:
- No SIM works on your phone
- SIM tray feels loose
- Phone dropped recently
- Liquid damage
Conclusion
SIM Card Not Detected issues are usually caused by misalignment, dirt, software errors, or wrong settings — and most can be fixed at home. Work through the solutions above step-by-step, and your SIM should start working again.