When phone vibration stops working or becomes very weak, it’s easy to miss calls, messages, and alerts—especially when the phone is on silent mode. This issue is common on Android phones and is usually caused by settings, software glitches, or simple hardware blockage rather than a serious fault.
I personally faced this issue when my phone stopped vibrating for notifications even though vibration was enabled. After checking vibration settings and restarting the device, the vibration started working normally again.
In this article, I’ll explain why phone vibration doesn’t work properly and share practical fixes that actually work.
How Vibration Problems Usually Appear
You may notice:
- No vibration at all
- Vibration works for calls but not notifications
- Very weak vibration
- Vibration stopped after an update
- Vibration works only sometimes
These symptoms usually point to settings or software issues.
Common Reasons Phone Vibration Stops Working
1. Vibration Disabled in Sound Settings
Vibration may be turned off accidentally.
2. Do Not Disturb or Silent Mode Settings
Some DND modes disable vibration completely.
3. App-Specific Vibration Turned Off
Individual apps may have vibration disabled.
4. Software Glitches
Temporary system bugs can affect vibration motor control.
5. Physical Obstruction or Case Issue
Thick phone cases can reduce vibration strength.
Fixes That Actually Work
Method 1: Check Vibration and Sound Settings
This was the fix that worked for me.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Sound & vibration
- Enable Vibrate on ring
- Enable Vibrate on silent
- Set vibration strength to Medium or High
Make sure vibration is enabled system-wide.
Method 2: Check Do Not Disturb Settings
DND may block vibration.
What to do:
- Go to Settings → Do Not Disturb
- Disable DND or check its schedule
- Allow calls and notifications if DND is needed
Method 3: Check App Notification Settings
Apps may control vibration individually.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Apps
- Select the affected app
- Tap Notifications
- Enable Vibration for notifications
Repeat for important apps like calls and messaging.
Method 4: Restart the Phone
Restarting clears temporary system glitches.
This simple step fixes many vibration issues.
Method 5: Remove Thick Phone Case
Cases can dampen vibration.
- Remove the phone case
- Test vibration
- Use a thinner case if needed
This often improves vibration strength.
Method 6: Update Phone Software
Vibration bugs are often fixed in updates.
- Go to Settings → Software update
- Install pending updates
- Restart phone
Method 7: Test Vibration Using Hardware Diagnostics
Some phones include vibration tests.
What to check:
- Use built-in diagnostic tools (if available)
- Test vibration motor directly
If vibration doesn’t work in diagnostics, hardware repair may be needed.
When It’s a Hardware Problem
Vibration motor repair may be required if:
- Vibration doesn’t work at all
- Phone doesn’t vibrate even during boot
- Issue started after a drop or water damage
- Diagnostics test fails
In such cases, professional repair is needed.
What You Should Avoid
- Using extremely thick or heavy cases
- Ignoring DND schedules
- Assuming vibration motor is dead immediately
- Factory reset without trying simple fixes
These delay the real solution.
FAQs
Can updates disable vibration?
Yes, settings may reset after updates.
Does silent mode disable vibration?
Depends on phone settings.
Is vibration motor repair expensive?
Usually affordable.
Should I factory reset?
Only if software corruption is suspected.
Final Thoughts
If your phone vibration is not working or feels too weak, the issue is usually caused by sound settings, DND mode, or software glitches—not a faulty vibration motor.
From my experience, enabling vibration in sound settings and restarting the phone fixed the issue instantly. Always try simple fixes before visiting a service center.
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.