How do I fix a Samsung Galaxy S5 that says No SIM card?
Answer
On a Galaxy S5, No SIM card usually means the SIM is dirty, upside down, not fully seated, or damaged. Because this model has a removable back and battery, powering off, reseating the SIM, and checking the SIM status under Settings often resolves it before any carrier account work.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Power the phone off before removing the battery or SIM to avoid damaging the device.
- Do not share account passwords or pay strangers who offer to unlock a deceased person's phone or accounts.
Follow these steps
Power off and open the back
Turn the Galaxy S5 off, remove the back cover, and take out the battery so you can reach the SIM slot safely.
You should see: The phone is off and the SIM slot is accessible.
Reseat the SIM card
Slide the SIM out, wipe the gold contacts gently with a dry lint-free cloth, then reinsert it firmly in the correct orientation until it sits flat.
You should see: The SIM is fully seated and does not wobble in the slot.
Reassemble and check for the error
Reinstall the battery and back cover, turn the phone on, and see whether No SIM card still appears.
You should see: The phone either detects the SIM or still shows the same message for the next checks.
Read the SIM status screen
Open Apps > Settings > About device > Status and look for SIM status, mobile network state, and the IMEI fields.
You should see: You can see whether the phone reports a SIM present, absent, or network-rejected.
Test with another SIM or ask the carrier
If it still says No SIM card, try a different compatible SIM. If another SIM works, contact the carrier about the original SIM or line. If no SIM is detected, the SIM reader may need service.
You should see: You know whether the problem is the SIM, the line, or the phone's SIM reader.
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Extra tips
What to look for: The exact No SIM card message, whether the SIM tray or slot holds the card firmly, and the SIM status fields under Settings > About device > Status.
Before you change anything: Power the phone off before removing the back cover or battery. Handle the SIM by the edges and avoid scratching the gold contacts. Write down the IMEI from the label under the battery if you need carrier help. If this phone belonged to someone who passed away, use official carrier or Google account processes for service or account changes; do not use unlock services from strangers.