How to Fix Fingerprint Sensor Not Working on Android

If you are dealing with a fingerprint sensor not working Android issue, you are not alone. Many Android users face this problem at some point. It can be frustrating when your fingerprint scanner issue stops you from quickly unlocking your phone or accessing apps. The good news is that most cases have simple fixes you can try at home.

How to fix fingerprint sensor not working on Android often starts with basic steps like cleaning the sensor or restarting your device. In this guide, we will walk you through easy, step-by-step solutions. These work for most Android phones, including popular ones like Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy.

Why Does the Fingerprint Sensor Stop Working on Android?

Before fixing the problem, it helps to know common causes. Here are the main reasons for Android fingerprint scanner issue:

Dirt, oil, or smudges on the sensor or your finger.
Dry or wet fingers that make it hard for the sensor to read.
A screen protector or case blocking the sensor.
Outdated software or bugs after an update.
Wrongly registered fingerprints.
Third-party apps causing conflicts.
Rare hardware damage.

Most issues are software-related and easy to solve. Let us start with the simplest fixes.

Quick and Easy Fixes to Try First

Start here—these steps solve many fingerprint not recognizing Android problems fast.

1. Clean the Fingerprint Sensor and Your Fingers

Dirt is the top reason for fingerprint reader not working Android. Oil from your skin or dust can block the sensor.

Steps to clean:

Use a soft, lint-free cloth (like a microfiber one) to gently wipe the sensor area.
Make sure your fingers are clean and dry. Wash your hands if needed, but dry them well.
Avoid harsh chemicals—just a dry or slightly damp cloth.

After cleaning, test the sensor. This simple step fixes many cases.

2. Restart Your Phone

A quick restart clears small glitches, causing the fingerprint unlock not working Android.

How to restart:

Press and hold the power button.
Tap “Restart” or “Reboot.”
Wait for the phone to turn back on, then try your fingerprint.

Easy and often effective!

3. Check for Software Updates

Updates fix bugs, including the Android system update fingerprint issue.

Steps:

Go to Settings > System > System Update (or Software Update on some phones).
Check for updates and install any available.
Restart after updating.

Keep your phone updated for the best performance.

How to fix fingerprint sensor not working on Android

Old fingerprints can cause fingerprint not recognizing Android problems, especially after adding a screen protector or updating.

Steps to Re-Register Fingerprints

This is a key way to how to reset fingerprint sensor on Android.

Open Settings > Security (or Biometrics and security) > Fingerprints.
Enter your PIN or pattern to continue.
Delete all existing fingerprints.
Tap “Add fingerprint.”
Follow on-screen instructions: Place your finger on the sensor multiple times, covering the center, edges, and tips.
Register the same finger 2-3 times for better accuracy.
Add backups like your other thumb.

Tips for success:

Press firmly but not too hard.
Use fingers without cuts or scars.
If dry, apply a tiny bit of lotion first.

This often solves the in-display fingerprint scanner problem.

Dealing with Screen Protectors and Cases

Many users face fingerprint scanner not working with screen protector.

Fixes for Screen Protector Issues

Remove the protector temporarily to test.
Re-register fingerprints after applying a new one.
Use compatible protectors (e.g., “Made for Google” for Pixel).
For Samsung, turn on “Touch sensitivity” in Settings > Display.

If issues continue, try a thinner or certified protector.

Check Your Phone Case

Some cases cover the sensor edges.

Remove the case and test.
Use cases designed for your phone model.

Boot into Safe Mode to Check for App Conflicts

Third-party apps can cause Android biometric authentication issues.

How to enter Safe Mode:

Press and hold the power button.
Long-press “Power off” on the screen.
Tap “OK” for Safe Mode.
If fingerprint works here, a recent app is the problem.
Exit Safe Mode by restarting.

Uninstall recent apps one by one.

Advanced Troubleshooting Steps

If basic fixes fail, try these.

Wipe Cache Partition (Samsung and Others)

Clears temporary files without losing data.

Turn off the phone.
Hold Volume Up + Power (varies by model).
In recovery, select “Wipe cache partition.”
Reboot.

Factory Reset as Last Resort

This erases everything—backup first!

Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data.
Set up the phone again and add fresh fingerprints.

Brand-Specific Tips

Google Pixel Fingerprint Sensor Not Working Fix

Pixel phones use under-display sensors.

Update Android fully.
Clean the screen well.
Re-enroll after the screen protector changes.
Use Face Unlock as backup.

See more at Google Support.

Fingerprint Unlock Not Working on Samsung Galaxy

Samsung has ultrasonic sensors.

Clean the sensor and fingers.
Avoid water or humidity.
Re-register the flat on the sensor.
Remove interfering cases.

Check Samsung Support.

General Android Fingerprint Troubleshooting

For other brands like OnePlus or Xiaomi:

Check biometric settings.
Clear app cache for security apps.
Test in different conditions (not too cold/hot).

Common Situations and Extra Tips

Fingerprint Not Working After Android Update

Updates sometimes cause the fingerprint scanner not working after Android update.

Wait for a patch update.
Re-register fingerprints.
Clear settings cache.

Fingerprint Sensor Not Detecting Finger

Try:

Moisturize dry hands.
Pressing firmly.
Avoid direct sunlight on the sensor.

Fingerprint Stops Working Randomly Android

Restarting often helps.
Check for overheating.
Disable then re-enable biometrics.

When to Seek Professional Help

If nothing works, it might be a fingerprint hardware vs software issue—likely hardware like damage or after screen replacement.

Visit the authorized service center.
Avoid if under warranty—do not open yourself.

FAQs

Why is my fingerprint sensor missing from settings on Android?

Your fingerprint sensor might be missing because of a software glitch or a recent update. Try restarting your phone first, then check for system updates in Settings. If it still doesn’t show up, a factory reset can often bring it back.

How to fix the fingerprint not working after screen replacement on Android?

After a screen replacement, the fingerprint sensor usually needs recalibration. The best way is to visit an authorized service center for proper setup. DIY fixes rarely work well, so professional help is safest.

Does safe mode on Android make the fingerprint work differently?

Yes, safe mode turns off third-party apps, which helps find the problem. If fingerprint works fine in safe mode, a bad app is likely causing the issue. This simple test saves time when troubleshooting.

Can I clean the fingerprint sensor with alcohol on Android?

Yes, you can clean it safely with diluted isopropyl alcohol. Use a soft cloth lightly dampened with alcohol—never pour it directly on the sensor. Wipe gently to remove dirt, oil, or smudges without damaging it.

Why does my fingerprint sensor stop working randomly on Android?

Random failures are often caused by overheating, a low battery, or a small software glitch. A quick restart usually fixes it and gets the sensor working again. If it keeps happening, check for updates or clear the fingerprint data in settings.

Conclusion

Fixing how to fix fingerprint sensor not working on Android is usually straightforward with steps like cleaning, restarting, updating, and re-registering fingerprints. Start simple and move to advanced if needed. Most users get their Android fingerprint problem fix without professional help.

Stay patient—try each step carefully. Your fingerprint unlock should work reliably again soon.

Have you fixed your fingerprint issue with one of these steps? Which worked for you? Share in comments!