When your phone suddenly shows “No Service” or “Emergency Calls Only”, you can’t make calls, send messages, or use mobile data. This issue is common on Android phones and is usually related to network settings, SIM problems, or temporary carrier issues—not a damaged phone.
I personally faced this issue after traveling to a different area where my phone stayed stuck on “No Service” even though others had signal. After resetting network settings and reselecting the network manually, the signal returned without replacing the SIM or phone.
In this article, I’ll explain why phones show “No Service” and share fixes that actually work.
How “No Service” Problems Usually Appear
You may notice:
- No signal bars at all
- “Emergency calls only” message
- Signal appears and disappears
- Mobile data completely unavailable
- Calls fail immediately
These symptoms usually point to network or SIM-related issues.
Common Reasons Phone Shows No Service
1. Temporary Carrier Network Issues
Network towers may be down or congested.
2. SIM Card Not Detected Properly
Loose or old SIM cards cause signal loss.
3. Network Mode Set Incorrectly
Forcing only one network type may block service.
4. Network Settings Corruption
Saved network configuration may be broken.
5. Roaming or Region Issues
Network selection may fail when traveling.
Fixes That Actually Work
Method 1: Toggle Airplane Mode
This refreshes network connection.
- Turn on Airplane mode for 30 seconds
- Turn it off
- Wait for signal to reconnect
This simple step fixes many temporary issues.
Method 2: Restart the Phone
This was the fix that worked for me.
Restarting:
- Reconnects to the nearest network tower
- Refreshes SIM connection
- Clears temporary signal bugs
Always try this early.
Method 3: Remove and Reinsert SIM Card
SIM contact issues cause no service.
Steps:
- Turn off phone
- Remove SIM card
- Clean gently
- Reinsert SIM properly
- Restart phone
This often restores signal instantly.
Method 4: Check Network Mode Settings
Wrong mode blocks service.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Mobile network
- Set network mode to Auto (2G/3G/4G/5G)
- Avoid forcing only LTE or 5G
This improves compatibility.
Method 5: Select Network Manually
Automatic selection may fail.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Mobile network
- Tap Network operators
- Turn off Automatic
- Select your carrier manually
This fix helped me when traveling.
Method 6: Reset Network Settings
This fixes corrupted network config.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → System
- Tap Reset options
- Select Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth
- Restart phone
This does not delete personal data.
Method 7: Check SIM on Another Phone
This helps identify SIM issues.
- Insert SIM in another phone
- If signal doesn’t appear, SIM may be faulty
- Contact carrier for SIM replacement
Why Phone Shows Emergency Calls Only
This happens when:
- Phone can’t register with carrier
- SIM authentication fails
- Network is temporarily unavailable
Fixing network registration usually solves it.
What You Should Avoid
- Assuming phone hardware is damaged
- Locking phone to one network type
- Ignoring SIM replacement for old SIMs
- Factory reset without testing fixes
These delay the real solution.
FAQs
Can software updates cause no service?
Yes, sometimes network settings reset.
Does roaming affect signal?
Yes, network selection may fail while roaming.
Is this a SIM problem?
Often yes, especially with old SIMs.
Should I contact my carrier?
If none of the fixes work, yes.
Final Thoughts
If your phone shows “No Service” or “Emergency Calls Only”, the issue is usually related to SIM connection, network mode, or carrier registration—not phone hardware.
From my experience, manually selecting the network and resetting network settings fixed the issue instantly. Always try software and SIM fixes before replacing your phone.
Vaishnav Singh is the founder and primary author of TechHary.com. Based in Mumbai, he brings hands-on professional experience to his writing, having worked extensively as a Windows expert within the IT industry. His practical background in solving complex technical issues fuels his passion for creating clear, helpful, and relevant content. At TechHary.com, Vaishnav dedicates himself to publishing in-depth articles, guides, and insights aimed at demystifying technology for enthusiasts and professionals alike. His mission is to build a trusted resource where readers can find reliable information to navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape.