Xiaomi approximation sensor does not work: reasons and 7 working solutions

Have you noticed that when you call, Xiaomi's screen doesn't go off when you hold your phone to your ear? Or vice versa, the display suddenly shuts down when you try to dial? These are classic symptoms of a malfunction of the proximity sensor - a small but critical sensor that is responsible for automatically turning off the screen when you talk. The problem is found on all models of the brand, from the budget Redmi Note 12 to the flagship Xiaomi 14 Ultra.

In 80% of cases, the problem can be solved independently without contacting the service center. In this article, we will look at all possible causes (from software failures to physical damage), offer step-by-step instructions for diagnosis and repair, and tell you when to really carry your phone to the workshop. MIUI, which are not written in official manuals.

How the proximity sensor works and why it breaks

The proximity sensor in Xiaomi smartphones is an infrared sensor that measures the distance between the screen and an object (like your ear).

• 🔦 Infrared LED (IR LED) — emits light invisible to man
• 👁️ Photodiode – captures the reflected signal and converts it into a digital signal for the processor

When you hold your phone to your ear, it's reflected. IR-The signal changes intensity, and the system understands that you need to turn off the screen and touchscreen to avoid accidental pressing. If the sensor fails, this logic is broken — the screen either does not go out at all or turns off at the wrong time.

The main causes of malfunction:

Interesting fact: on some models (for example, Xiaomi Mi 11), the proximity sensor is combined with the light sensor in one module, and if the automatic brightness control stops working, the problem is precisely in the hardware.

How to check the proximity sensor on Xiaomi: 3 reliable methods

Before you start repairing, you need to make sure that the problem is really in the sensor, not the software.

1. Test through the engineering menu (code ##6484##)

This is the most accurate method that shows real data from the sensor:

1. Open the Phone app and enter the combination ##6484##.
2. Select Proximity Sensor (Proximity Sensor).
3. Put your hand to the top of the screen (where the speaker is).

🔹 Norm: the value should change from 5.0 cm (far) to 0.0 cm (close).

🔹 Problem: If the readings are not changed or displayed N/A, sensor malfunction.

Verification through the Sensor app

If the engineering menu is not available (some firmwares block it), install the Sensor Test or Phone Doctor Plus app from Google Play:

• 📱 Run the proximity sensor test.
• 🖐️ Close the upper part of the phone with your palm.
• ✅ If the screen goes out, the sensor works. If it doesn't, the problem is confirmed.

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On Xiaomi models with AMOLED-The proximity sensor can be placed under the display, in which case the test is better done in a dark room, so the infrared signal will not be distorted by external light.

3.Manual check during call

The simplest, but least accurate method:

1. Call another phone (or use Dial mode).
2. Put the machine to your ear.
3. See if the screen goes out.

⚠️ Attention: if the screen does not go out, but at the same time in the engineering menu the sensor shows the correct values - the problem may be in the firmware or settings MIUI, Not in the sensor itself.

Software solutions to the problem

In 60% of cases, the proximity sensor stops working due to failures in the MIUI Or you can try these methods in order:

1. Phone reboot

It's trivial, but it often helps. The proximity sensor is controlled by a separate driver in the system, and sometimes it freezes. Just hold the power button and select Reboot.

2. Reset sensor settings

V MIUI There is a hidden function of resetting sensor calibration:

1. Go to Settings. → The phone.
2. Press 7 times on the version MIUI, activate the developer menu.
3. Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
4. Find the item Reset sensors and confirm the action.

3. Firmware update

If the problem has occurred after the update, check if a new fix has come out. → Update the system and install the latest version MIUI.

🔹 The Poco and Redmi models with global firmware are less likely to receive updates than the Chinese versions. If you have an older model (like the Redmi Note 8 Pro), support may have already stopped.

4. Cleaning the system cache

A cluttered cache can interfere with the proper operation of sensor drivers to clean it up.

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Press Volume Up + Power to Enter Recovery.
3. Select Wipe Cache Partition (use volume buttons for navigation).
4. Confirm the action and restart the device.

5. Reset to factory settings

An extreme measure if nothing worked. Remember, this will delete all the data from your phone!

How to reset:

1. Settings → About the phone → Resetting settings.
2. Select Delete all data.
3. Wait 5-10 minutes (the phone will reboot several times).

⚠️ Note: on Xiaomi models with a blocked bootloader (Redmi) 9A, Poco M3) Reset may result in a requirement to enter a Mi Account.Make sure to remember the username and password!

Hardware repair methods

If the software didn't work, the problem is probably with the sensor itself or with the sensor.

1.Mud-cleaning sensor

The proximity sensor is located next to the front camera (usually at the top of the screen), and over time it gets clogged with dust, potassium fat deposits or residues of protective film.

• 🧹 Use a soft brush (for example, for camera lenses).
• 💨 Blow the hole with compressed air (a canister for cleaning equipment).
• 🚫 Do not use cotton swabs, alcohol or wet wipes – this can damage the sensor!

On models with a notch under the screen (for example, Xiaomi Mi Mix 4), the sensor is hidden under the glass. In this case, cleaning will not help - you need repairs.

2. Checking the sensor plume

If the phone was falling or under mechanical stress, the plume connecting the sensor to the motherboard could move away to check this out.

1. Remove the back cover (need a mediator and a hair dryer to soften the glue).
2. Disconnect the battery (required!).
3. Find the plume running from the top of the screen to the board (usually signed as PROXIMITY).
4. Check if it's sitting tight in the connector. If necessary, gently press it.

⚠️ Note: on Xiaomi models with frameless design (for example, Xiaomi) 12S Ultra) sensor plume is often integrated into the screen module. If it's damaged, you'll need to replace the entire display.

Replacement of the proximity sensor

If the sensor is physically broken (for example, after falling or getting moisture), it needs to be replaced.

🔧 You'll need a replacement:

• 🔨 Set of screwdrivers (star, cross).
• 🔥 Hair dryer or thermo-air station (for softening glue).
• 🧲 Screen suction cup.
• 📱 New sensor (only order from trusted sites, such as AliExpress with a seller rating of 98%+).

Frequent errors in the repair of the proximity sensor

Many users make the problem worse by trying to fix the phone themselves, and here are the most common mistakes and their consequences:

1. Use of non-original spare parts

Sensors from unknown manufacturers often have incompatible sensitivity. 8 The original sensor is activated at a distance. 3-5 See, and cheap analogue - only with direct touch.

Damage to the plume during disassembly

Xiaomi's plumes are very thin and fragile, and if you pull the tape too hard or bend it too much, the contacts can break, and you'll need to replace the entire plume, which will cost you a lot of money. 2-3 more expensively.

3. Wrong ration

When replacing the sensor, it is important:

• 🔥 Use a soldering iron with a temperature not higher than 350°C (otherwise the fee will melt).
• 🧲 Apply flux on a water basis (alcohol can damage contacts).
• ⚡ Ground the soldering iron to avoid static discharge.

4. Forget to calibrate the new sensor

After replacement, the sensor must be calibrated in the engineering menu:

1. Enter ##6484##.
2. Select Proximity Sensor Calibration.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen (usually hold and remove your hand 3-5 times).

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If the screen goes out too early after the sensor is replaced (for example, when you just hold the phone in your hand), then the sensor is too sensitive. Try to reduce the sensitivity in the engineering menu or install another driver.

When to contact the service center

Not all breakdowns can be repaired by yourself.

• 💧 The phone fell into the water or was exposed to severe humidity (even if a few days later).
• 🔧 The sensor is integrated into the screen module (for example, on the Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra).
• ⚡ After your manipulations, the phone stopped turning on or artifacts appeared on the screen.
• 🔄 The problem comes back after each update. MIUI.

Cost of repair in the service center:

🔍 How to choose a service:

• 📍 Preference is given to authorized service centers Xiaomi (the list is on the official website).
• ⭐ Check reviews on Yandex.Maps or 2GIS (especially pay attention to the photo repairs).
• 💰 Compare prices: if it costs 800 to replace a sensor in one center ₽, And the other one is 3,500. ₽, That's a reason to be wary.
• 📋 Require a warranty for repairs (minimum 3 months).

Prevention: how to prolong the life of the sensor approach

To avoid sensor problems in the future, follow these guidelines:

1. Use high-quality protective glass

Cheap, thick glue-coated glass can block infrared signals, and choose sensor-cut glass or ultra-thin glass (no more than 0.2 mm thick).

2. Avoid overheating the phone

The proximity sensors are sensitive to high temperatures.

• 🚗 On the dashboard of the car under direct sunlight.
• 🔥 Near heaters or batteries.
• 🎮 During long gaming sessions without interruptions (especially relevant for Poco F and Black Shark).

3. Regularly update the firmware

In the new versions MIUI They often fix sensor bugs:

1. Settings → Updating the system → Settings (⚙) → Auto-update.
2. Select Download over Wi-Fi and Install automatically.

4. Don't drop your phone.

Even a small impact can displace the sensor or damage its mount. If the phone falls, immediately check the sensor through the engineering menu.

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On Xiaomi models with a mechanical front camera (such as the Xiaomi Mi Mix 3), the proximity sensor often suffers from dust entering the mechanism.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi's proximity sensor