How to Fix LTE Not Working on Android: A Step-by-Step Guide

LTE (Long Term Evolution) is designed to deliver fast, reliable mobile internet. So when LTE suddenly stops working—or your phone drops to 3G, H+, or no data at all—it can be frustrating, especially when you rely on mobile data for work, navigation, or communication.

If your LTE is not working on Android, this guide walks you through all the proven fixes, from simple checks to advanced network settings.

Common Signs LTE Is Not Working

Before troubleshooting, here’s how the issue usually shows up:

• LTE/4G icon disappears or switches to 3G or H+
• Mobile data is on, but there’s no internet
• Very slow internet speeds despite good signal bars
• LTE works in some locations but not others
• LTE stopped working after a software update or SIM change

Why LTE Stops Working on Android

Several factors can cause LTE issues, including:

• Poor network coverage in your area
• Incorrect APN (Access Point Name) settings
• SIM card problems
• Network mode misconfiguration
• Software bugs or outdated firmware
• Carrier-side outages or restrictions

Let’s fix them one by one.

1. Check Network Coverage in Your Area

LTE availability depends heavily on location.

What to do:

• Move to an open area or near a window
• Check your carrier’s coverage map
• Ask someone using the same network if LTE works for them

If LTE doesn’t work in that area at all, the issue is likely coverage-related.

2. Turn Airplane Mode On and Off

This refreshes your phone’s connection to nearby cell towers.

Steps:

1. Swipe down to open Quick Settings
2. Turn Airplane mode ON
3. Wait 30 seconds
4. Turn it OFF

This simple step often restores LTE instantly.

3. Restart Your Android Phone

A restart clears temporary system glitches that can affect mobile data.

Tip: If LTE stopped working after long uptime or heavy usage, a restart is especially effective.

4. Ensure LTE Is Enabled in Network Settings

Your phone may be set to prefer lower network modes.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings
2. Tap Network & Internet or Connections

3. Select Mobile Network

4. Tap Preferred network type or Network mode

5. Choose LTE/4G/3G/2G (Auto) or LTE preferred

Avoid selecting 3G-only or 2G-only modes.

5. Enable Mobile Data (Not Just Wi-Fi)

Sometimes LTE appears inactive simply because mobile data is off.

Check:

• Swipe down to open Quick Settings
• Turn Mobile data ON

Also, turn Wi-Fi OFF temporarily to test LTE directly.

6. Reinsert or Replace Your SIM Card

A faulty or improperly seated SIM can block LTE access.

Try this:

• Power off your phone
• Remove the SIM card
• Clean it gently
• Reinsert it properly
• Power the phone back on

If possible, test the SIM in another phone.

7. Reset Network Settings

This fixes deep configuration issues without deleting personal data.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings
2. Tap the search icon

3. Type Reset Network

4. Tap Reset Network Settings 

5. Confirm reset

Note: This will erase saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth connections.

When LTE Still Doesn’t Work

If LTE remains unavailable after all fixes:

• Your device may not support your carrier’s LTE bands
• The phone could have antenna or hardware damage
• The issue may be a long-term network outage

In this case, professional repair or carrier replacement may be necessary.

Tips and Best Practices

• Ensure your phone’s software is up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues.
• Regularly clear your phone’s cache to improve performance.
• Consider using a signal booster if you frequently experience weak signal areas.
• If you’re traveling, verify your roaming settings to ensure LTE connectivity.
• Contact your carrier for assistance if problems persist after troubleshooting.

Common Issues and Fixes

• Problem: LTE suddenly stops working. Solution: Restart your device and check for any available software updates.

• Problem: Slow LTE speeds. Solution: Ensure no active data caps and check for background apps consuming bandwidth.

• Problem: LTE not available in certain areas. Solution: Check your carrier’s coverage map and consider a network extender.

• Problem: Frequent disconnections. Solution: Reset network settings and verify SIM card placement.

Ensuring Reliable LTE Connectivity

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to resolve most LTE connectivity issues efficiently. Consistent LTE performance is crucial for staying connected in today’s fast-paced world, and with the right approach, you can ensure your device remains reliable. If issues persist despite troubleshooting, don’t hesitate to reach out to your service provider for further assistance.