My Samsung phone intermittently says it can't detect the SIM card, so I can't make calls or send texts. I replaced the SIM about three weeks ago, but the problem still happens occasionally. Restarting the phone and leaving it powered off for around five minutes sometimes makes the SIM work again, although the issue keeps returning. Could this be a software problem or a failing SIM reader? The phone is about five years old, and I'm also wondering whether limited storage could be involved. The model is SM-G781U.
4 Answers
If this has happened with more than one SIM card, the phone is the more likely culprit. The SIM tray, contacts, or internal reader may be loose, dirty, or damaged—especially if the phone has been dropped or the tray no longer fits tightly. Have a repair shop inspect it if the carrier confirms the SIM is fine.
Your available storage is very unlikely to cause the phone to stop detecting a SIM. The age of the phone alone isn't proof of failure, but a five-year-old device can develop worn contacts or other hardware problems. You can gently inspect the tray and SIM for damage, but avoid bending the card or inserting homemade spacers.
Since the SIM was recently replaced and the problem continues, contact your mobile carrier and explain that the phone is repeatedly losing the SIM connection. They can check the line, confirm the replacement SIM is properly provisioned, and advise whether the phone or account needs further testing.
Yes. A new SIM doesn't rule out a carrier-side issue, and they can also test the SIM before you spend money repairing the phone.
The temporary fix from powering down suggests the phone may be losing contact with the SIM reader or having a modem/software glitch. Install any available system updates and try resetting network settings, keeping in mind that this removes saved Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections. If it still happens afterward, the carrier or a technician should test the phone.
So I should contact my carrier directly and ask them to troubleshoot it?