Do SIM Cards Go Bad? SIM Card Not Working Explained

Can a SIM Card Stop Working?

Yes, SIM cards can stop working. While they are designed to be durable, they can experience physical damage or software-related issues that cause them to fail.

How Long Do SIM Cards Last?

A well-maintained SIM card can last up to 7 years. However, some SIM cards may fail within months due to manufacturing defects. If you haven't activated your SIM card yet and it’s no longer working, the issue might not be the card itself—there could be an expiration on the activation window.

The activation window varies by carrier. Some require activation within 30 days, while others may allow up to a year or more. It's essential to check the carrier’s policy before purchasing a SIM card.

Do SIM Cards Expire or Get Deactivated?

Yes, SIM cards can expire or become deactivated, but not due to physical wear. Here's why:

• Inactivity: If a prepaid SIM card isn't used (no calls, texts, or data usage) or topped up within a specific period set by the carrier, it can be deactivated. This period can range from 30 days to a year or more.
• Expiration Dates: Some SIM cards, especially those for temporary use like travel SIMs, have an expiration date. Once this date passes, the card will no longer work.
• Postpaid Account Issues: If you fail to pay your monthly bill or violate the terms of service, your account can be suspended or terminated, deactivating the SIM card.
• Network Changes: With mobile networks evolving (e.g., 3G to 4G/LTE or 5G), older SIM cards may become incompatible and need to be replaced.

Why Do SIM Cards Stop Working?

SIM cards can stop functioning due to various reasons. They are fragile and can be damaged physically, suffer from software or network issues, or become incompatible with newer devices. Below are the main causes of SIM card failure.

Physical Damage or Corrosion

SIM cards are sensitive to physical damage. Here are the key reasons for physical failure:

• Cracks, Bends, or Breaks: The chip in the SIM card can break or crack from physical stress like sitting on your phone, dropping it, or mishandling the SIM tray. Even small cracks can disrupt the electrical pathways.
• Scratches on the Gold Contacts: The gold contacts on the back of the SIM card are essential for establishing a connection with the phone’s pins. Scratches can impair this connection, causing the phone to fail to read the SIM card.
• Corrosion: Exposure to moisture or high humidity can cause the metal contacts to corrode. This corrosion forms an insulating layer, blocking the signals. Rain, spills, or prolonged humidity can lead to this issue.
• Wear and Tear from Insertion/Removal: Repeatedly inserting and removing the SIM card can wear down the gold contacts or weaken the connection between the chip and the card’s plastic casing.
• Heat Damage: Extreme heat, such as leaving the phone in direct sunlight or near a heat source, can warp the SIM card’s plastic and damage its internal circuits.

Software or Network Issues

Sometimes, SIM card issues are not related to the physical card but to the software or network. Here are the common causes:

• Software Glitches: Your phone’s operating system manages the SIM card connection. Temporary bugs or glitches can prevent the phone from recognizing the SIM card. A simple restart can usually resolve this issue.
• Outdated Software: An outdated operating system can cause compatibility problems with newer SIM cards or network protocols. Regularly updating your phone’s software is recommended.
• SIM Lock Issues: If your phone is locked to a specific carrier, it may not accept SIM cards from other providers. Using a SIM from a different carrier could cause the phone not to recognize it.
• Account Suspension or Termination: Failure to pay bills or violating the carrier's terms of service may result in your account being suspended or terminated, making the SIM card inactive on their network.
• Network Outages or Issues: Occasionally, network issues in your area may temporarily prevent your phone from connecting, making it appear as though the SIM card is malfunctioning.
• Incorrect APN Settings: Incorrect Access Point Name (APN) settings can block mobile data, although the SIM card may still work for calls and texts.

Incompatibility With New Phones

With the constant evolution of mobile technology, older SIM cards may not always work with newer phones:

• Different SIM Card Sizes: SIM card sizes have changed over the years, from Standard to Mini, Micro, and Nano. If your old SIM card doesn’t match your new phone's tray size, it won't work without an adapter.
• Network Technology Incompatibility: Older SIM cards may not support newer network technologies like 5G. While they might still work for basic calls and texts, you may experience limitations or no service on newer networks. Carriers recommend upgrading to a newer SIM for the latest features.
• SIM Card Age and Protocol Support: Newer phones may require updated SIM card protocols for enhanced security and features. Very old SIM cards may not comply with these newer standards, leading to compatibility issues.

How Do I Know If My SIM Card Is Damaged?

If your SIM card is damaged, you may notice the following symptoms:

• Unable to send or receive text messages, make calls, or use cellular data
• Continuous network searching with no connection to a network
• “No SIM” or “No Service” error messages
• Poor signal quality or intermittent signal drops

In more severe cases, your phone might not even detect the SIM card, and you’ll receive notifications or alerts.

• On Android devices, you’ll be notified if the SIM card isn’t detected, and you can check its status by going to Settings > About phone > Status. If there’s no data or service, it may indicate the SIM is damaged.
• On iPhones, you’ll see a “No SIM” alert in the status bar when the SIM card is malfunctioning. You can also go to Settings > General > About to check the SIM status. If there’s no information next to Network or Carrier, the SIM might be faulty.

When the SIM card stops working, you will only be able to make emergency calls. Routine tasks such as sending messages, making calls, or accessing mobile data will not be possible. In less extreme cases, network service may be unreliable, causing missed calls, delayed text messages, or difficulty accessing the internet.

What Should I Do If My SIM Card Stops Working?

If your SIM card suddenly stops working, it can disrupt your ability to call, text, or use mobile data. Here are several simple steps you can take to identify and possibly fix the issue.

SIM Card Not Working on iPhone

iPhones may encounter SIM issues due to software glitches, hardware problems, or issues with the SIM card itself. Common error messages include "No SIM" or "Invalid SIM". To troubleshoot:

• Restart the device.
• Check for available iOS updates.
• Reset network settings.

If the problem persists, you may need to reach out to Apple Support or your carrier for further assistance or to replace the SIM card.

SIM Card Not Working on Android

Android users can face similar SIM card issues, such as seeing messages like "SIM Card Not Detected" or "No SIM Card". To troubleshoot:

• Restart your phone.
• Check the SIM card’s placement.
• Clear the cache partition.
• Perform a factory reset if necessary.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, contact your device manufacturer or mobile carrier to determine if a SIM replacement or hardware fix is needed.

How to Fix SIM Card Failure

To address SIM card failures, follow these steps:

• Reinsert the SIM card: Carefully remove and reinsert the SIM card.
• Clean the contacts: Gently wipe the metal contacts with a soft, dry cloth.
• Restart your device: This can help resolve minor issues.
• Check for updates: Ensure your device’s software is up to date.

• Test the SIM in another device: Verify whether the issue is with the SIM card or your phone.
• Reset network settings: This will remove saved Wi-Fi passwords but can fix network-related issues.

If none of these steps work:

• Contact your service provider: For further assistance or SIM replacement.
• Request a new SIM card: Your provider may replace the SIM or update your account information.

What Does SIM Failure Mean?

SIM failure occurs when the SIM card is unable to connect with the device or cellular network. This can happen for various reasons, including physical damage, software issues, or network-related problems. When a SIM failure happens, the device may show error messages or fail to connect to the cellular network completely.

When SIM Cards Fail Abroad: How eSIM Saves Your Travel Plans

Dealing with a SIM card failure during international travel can be a real challenge. Without mobile service, it becomes harder to navigate, stay in touch with local contacts, or access essential travel details. Replacing a physical SIM card in a foreign country can also be inconvenient and time-consuming.

eSIMs provide a much more reliable option for travelers. They allow you to switch between mobile plans or activate a local plan remotely—no need to hunt down a physical SIM. This convenience ensures that even if your main SIM encounters issues, you stay connected without delay. Plus, because eSIMs are built into the device and don’t suffer from physical wear and tear, they’re far less likely to fail.

Platforms like The BitJoy offer eSIMs that eliminate many of the common problems associated with physical SIM cards, especially during travel—making it easier to stay online, wherever you are.

In short, while traditional SIM cards can go bad, understanding how to recognize and handle SIM failures helps reduce disruptions. And with technology like eSIMs, you're better equipped to avoid connectivity issues altogether.

eSIM Advantages: Solving previous SIM Card Issues

eSIMs (embedded SIMs) offer several benefits over traditional physical SIM cards, particularly in addressing common SIM card issues:

• Already integrated directly into the device's hardware and can be activated totally online
• Eliminates the risk of physical damage to the card
• Reduces wear and tear from frequent removal and insertion
• Less susceptible to environmental factors like moisture and extreme temperatures
• Can be easily updated or changed remotely
• Minimizes the need for physical replacements in case of failure
• Allows multiple cellular plans to be stored on a single device
• Provides greater flexibility and convenience

Read more:

SIM Card Sizes Explained: Standard, Micro, Nano & eSIM

How to Buy the Best Greece SIM Card

Platforms like The BitJoy offer eSIMs that eliminate many of the common issues with physical SIM cards, especially when traveling. Overall, eSIMs are a more durable, versatile, and convenient alternative to traditional physical SIM cards.