Xiaomi screen does not turn on: what to do if the display is out and does not respond to buttons

The situation is familiar to many: you take Xiaomi out of your pocket, and the screen stays black, no backlight, no reaction to touch, no vibration when you press the buttons. The first thought is that the smartphone broke. But don't panic: 60 percent of the time, the problem is solved without repair, and the causes range from a trivial battery discharge to serious hardware failures.

Black screen on Redmi Note 12, POCO X5 Or Mi 13 can come after a crash, a system update, or even for no apparent reason, and the key is to properly diagnose the source of the malfunction, for example, if the phone vibrates when you call, but the screen is dead, that's one scenario. If the device doesn't show any signs of life, another one, and in this article, we'll look at all the possible causes and give you clear instructions on what to do in each case.

πŸ“Š What kind of smartphone you Xiaomi?
Redmi (Note/Pro series)
POCO (F/X/M)
Mi (flagship series)
Black Shark (game)
Another brand

Important: before any manipulation, check whether the warranty period has expired. If the smartphone is warranty, you should contact the Xiaomi service center. Self-repair attempts can cancel the warranty.

1.Diagnostics: Why Xiaomi's screen isn't turning on

The first step is to determine if your smartphone is alive, and then you can do some simple tests.

πŸ”Ή Response test:

  • πŸ”” Calling from another phone – if you hear a call sound or vibration, the problem is exactly in the screen or backlight.
  • πŸ”‹ Connect to charge - will the charging indicator (red/green light bulb) appear? on new models (Redmi Note 13 Pro)+) The indicator may not be available.
  • 🎧 Connect headphones – if you press the volume buttons you hear system sounds, the phone works.

πŸ”Ή Visual examination:

  • πŸ” Check the screen for cracks, dents, or dents (especially after falling or getting moisture).
  • πŸ’‘ Hold the phone to bright light at an angle - if the image is barely noticeable, the problem is in the backlight.
  • πŸ”Œ Inspect the charging connector for oxidation or damage.

⚠️ Warning: If your phone falls into water or is in a wet environment, don’t plug it into charging, it may cause a short circuit. First, dry the device in rice or silica gel for at least 24 hours.

πŸ”Ή Test for hardware failure:

1. Press the power button + volume up for 10-15 seconds.


2 If the phone vibrates and reboots, the problem is software.




3. If there is no reaction, the power controller or battery may fail.

Symptoms.Probable causeCan I correct myself?
The screen is black, but the phone vibrates / sounds are thereGraphics driver failure, damage to display plumeYeah (reset, reflash)
No response to buttons, no chargeBattery discharged, power controller failurePartially (try "lighting")
The screen flashes or flickersProblems with illumination, damage to the matrixNo (repair needed)
The phone is warming up, but it won't turn on.Short circuit, firmware failure.No (risk of making the breakdown worse)

2. Software glitches: how to bring the screen back to life without repair

If the phone is showing signs of life (vibration, sounds), but the screen is still black, it's probably the software that's to blame.

πŸ”Ή Reset (Hard Reset) Reset (Hard Reset):

  • πŸ”„ Press the power button. + volume up 15-20 seconds.
  • πŸ“± If you see the Mi logo, release the buttons. The phone reboots.
  • ⚠️ If the screen goes out again after the reboot, move on to the next step.

πŸ”Ή Reset via Recovery Mode:

1. Turn off the phone (clip the power + volume up 10 seconds).


2. Hold <power button + volume up> until the Recovery menu appears.




3. Select "Wipe Data" β†’ "Wipe All Data" (use volume buttons for navigation, power for confirmation).




4. After reset, select "Reboot".

Get out. SIM and SD-map|Connect to charging (minimum 30% battery)|Download the firmware for your model (in case of flashing)|Remember your Mi Account (if you were tied)-->

πŸ”Ή Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot (for Advanced Fastboot Fastboot):

If the reset didn't work, you'd have to go through the Fastboot and do it by:

  • πŸ–₯️ Computer with installed Xiaomi drivers and Mi Flash Tool.
  • πŸ”— Official firmware for your model (download from Xiaomi website).
  • πŸ”Œ USB-cable (preferably original).

Step-by-step instructions for firmware through Fastboot
1. Turn off the phone and switch to Fastboot mode: pinch <power-up + volume>. 2. Connect to a PC – should be defined as a β€œFastboot device". 3. Launch the Mi Flash Tool, select the downloaded firmware (file with the extension.tgz). 4. Press "Refresh" β†’ "Flash. It's gonna take a while. 5-10 minute. 5. Once completed, the phone will restart automatically. ⚠️ Do not turn off the cable during the firmware!

⚠️ Note: Fastboot flashing erases all data, including photos and contacts. If the phone was enabled Mi Account, after firmware you will need to enter the username / password.

3. Hardware breakdowns: when without repairs can not do

If the software methods didn't work, it's hardware. Let's look at the typical cases.

πŸ”Ή Damage to the display plume:

  • πŸ“± Most often occurs after a fall or a strong press on the screen.
  • πŸ”§ Symptoms: The screen flickers, stripes appear, or the image is there, but there is no backlight.
  • πŸ’° Cost of repair: from 1,500 to 4,000 β‚½ (model).

πŸ”Ή Matrix failure:

  • πŸ’₯ Occurs when impacted, overheated or moisture hits.
  • πŸ” Signs: The screen is completely black, but the phone is working (sounds, vibrations).
  • πŸ› οΈ Solution: Replacement of the matrix only (3,000 to 10,000) β‚½).

πŸ”Ή Failure of the power controller:

  • ⚑ The phone does not respond to charging, does not turn on, sometimes warms up.
  • πŸ”‹ Reason: voltage surge, battery wear, factory marriage.
  • πŸ”§ Diagnostics: Connect to charging - if the indicator doesn't burn, the problem is in the controller.

πŸ’‘

If the phone falls into water, don't dry it with a hair dryer! Hot air can damage the chips. Better use silica gel (boxes of shoes) or leave it in rice on the chips. 24-48 hours.

BreakdownAverage cost of repairs (β‚½)Duration of repairs
Replacement of the display plume1 500 β€” 3 5001-2 hours
Replacement of the matrix (OLED)5 000 β€” 12 0002-4 hours
Repair of the power controller2 000 β€” 6 0001-3 days
Battery replacement1 000 β€” 2 50030-60 minutes.

⚠️ Warning: If the phone warms up when you connect to a charger, but it doesn't turn on, it's a sign of short circuit. Don't try to repair yourself.

4. discharged battery: how to light up Xiaomi

One of the most common causes of black screens is that the battery is too low, so if the phone has been lying on for a long time without charging, the controller can block the power supply.

πŸ”Ή Method 1: Charging through another source

  • πŸ”Œ Connect your phone to a charger from your laptop (USB 3.0) or power bank.
  • ⏳ Leave on the charge at least for 30-60 Minutes – sometimes the indicator does not light up immediately.
  • πŸ”„ If there is no reaction, try another charger (preferably original).

πŸ”Ή Method 2: Lighting from another phone

1. Take a working smartphone and an OTG cable.


2. connect your Xiaomi to another phone via OTG.




3. Hold for 5-10 minutes – sometimes it is enough to wake up the battery.




4. Then connect to the normal charge.

πŸ”Ή Method 3: Direct battery charging (for advanced)

If the phone does not respond to charging, you can try to apply the voltage directly to the battery:

  • ⚑ You'll need a lab power supply (3.7-4.2V) or charger for Li-ion batteries.
  • πŸ”§ Carefully disassemble the phone, disconnect the battery plume and connect the wires from the power supply to it (observe polarity!).
  • ⏳ Charge. 10-15 Then, take the phone and try to turn it on.

πŸ’‘

If the battery is swelling, don't try to charge it. It's dangerous: it's a risk of fire or explosion. In that case, only a replacement.

5. Moisture hit: what to do if Xiaomi "sinks"

Moisture is one of the most insidious causes of black screens, and even if the phone hasn't fallen into the water, condensation or high humidity can cause contacts to corrosion.

πŸ”Ή First action:

  • 🚫 Turn off the phone immediately (press the power button for 10 seconds).
  • πŸ”Œ Turn off all cables (charging, headphones).
  • πŸ“± Get it. SIM-card and flash drive (if available).

πŸ”Ή Phone drying:

  • 🌾 Place your phone in dry rice or silica gel on 24-48 hours.
  • 🚫 Don't use a hair dryer, microwave or battery! - Dramatic heating will speed up corrosion.
  • πŸ’¨ You can use a fan at minimum speed (do not direct the air flow directly to the connectors).

πŸ”Ή Post-drying check:

1. Turn on your phone. If the screen is up, back up the data right away.


2. Check the operation of all functions: camera, speakers, microphone, sensors.




3 If the screen doesn't turn on, but the phone makes sounds, the problem is in the plume or the matrix.

πŸ’‘

After getting moisture for a week, watch the phone. Even if it is running, corrosion can manifest later. It is recommended to disassemble and clean the contacts with isopropyl alcohol (90%+).

⚠️ Warning: If you see any stains or stripes on the screen after moisture is injected, the matrix is damaged, and then drying won't help, you need to replace it.

6.When to contact the service: signs of a serious breakdown

Not all problems can be solved by yourself. Here are the red flags for carrying your phone for repair:

πŸ”Ή Symptoms of critical breakdowns:

  • πŸ”₯ The phone is still warmed even when it is off.
  • πŸ’₯ There is a smell of smoke or smoke.
  • ⚑ When connected to charging, the cable sparks or heats up.
  • πŸ“΅ The screen flickers, twitches or shows artifacts.
  • πŸ”• Phone is not defined by computer (even in Fastboot mode).

πŸ”Ή How to choose a service center:

CriteriaWhat to check.
Official statusXiaomi’s website should be labeled β€œAuthorized Service Center.”
Warranty for repairsAt least 3 months for replaced parts.
ReviewsCheck on Yandex.Maps or 2GIS (pay attention to the latest reviews).
Cost of diagnosisIn good services, the diagnosis is free or costs no more than 500 β‚½.

πŸ”Ή How much will it cost to repair:

  • πŸ“± Redmi Note 11/12: screen-replacement β€” 4 000-7 000 β‚½, plume β€” 1 500-2 500 β‚½.
  • πŸ“± POCO X5 Pro: Replacement of the matrix β€” 6 000-9 000 β‚½, power-controller β€” 3 000-5 000 β‚½.
  • πŸ“± Mi 13/14: repair of flagships is more expensive - from 8 000 before 15 000 β‚½.

πŸ’‘

If the phone is warranty, don't open it yourself! Opening the case will void the warranty. Contact only official Xiaomi service centers.

7 Prevention: How to Avoid Black Screens in the Future

To minimize the risk of re-breaking, follow these guidelines:

πŸ”Ή Protection against physical injury:

  • πŸ›‘οΈ Use a durable case (such as Spigen or Ringke) and tempered glass.
  • 🚫 Avoid carrying your phone in the back pocket of your pants – when you fall, the screen almost always beats.
  • πŸ’Ό In a backpack or bag, keep your phone in a separate compartment so that it doesn’t scratch with your keys.

πŸ”Ή Moisture protection:

  • 🌧️ Even if the phone is protected IP53/IP68, Do not immerse it in water intentionally.
  • 🚿 Do not use your phone in the shower or in the rain.
  • πŸ’¦ If your phone is wet, turn it off and dry it as quickly as possible.

πŸ”Ή Battery care:

  • πŸ”‹ Keep the charge between 20% and 80% – this will prolong the life of the battery.
  • ⚑ Don't use cheap charging, it can damage the power controller.
  • πŸ”Œ Turn off charging after 100% if you don’t plan on using your phone right away.

πŸ”Ή Programme prevention:

  • πŸ“± Regularly update the firmware (in new versions, bugs with the display are fixed).
  • πŸ”„ Make a soft reset once a month (in settings: About the phone) β†’ Resetting settings).
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Install an antivirus (such as Avast or Bitdefender) to avoid malware crashes.

πŸ’‘

If the screen flickered spontaneously or colored stripes appeared, that's the first sign of a matrix malfunction. Don't drag on the repair: the longer you put off, the more expensive it will be to fix.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the black screen on Xiaomi

❓ Phone's down, screen's gone, but touch's working?
It's probably a damaged plume of the display or a backlight of the matrix. Try to light the screen with a flashlight -- if you can barely see the image, the problem is in the backlight. Both of these require repairs (replacement of the plume or the matrix) Cost: 1,500 to 10,000. β‚½ model-wise.
❓ After updating MIUI The screen stopped turning on?
If the phone responds to buttons (vibrates, makes sounds), but the screen is black, try resetting via Recovery: Turn off the phone (press the power). + Volume up. Hold power. + Volume up until the Recovery menu appears. select Wipe Data β†’ Wipe All Data. After reset, search the phone through the Mi Flash Tool (download the firmware from the official website). If this does not help, contact the service.
❓ Xiaomi doesn't turn on or charge.What to check?
The reasons may be: Battery is discharged to zero – try to light up from another phone or high-current charger (2A)+). Broken power controller -- phone doesn't respond to charging, can warm up. Need diagnostics in service. Damaged. USB-connector, check if there's any debris or oxidation inside, try cleaning with alcohol, faulty cable/charging, try another charger, if you don't have any reaction after all the checks, take it to the service.
❓ Can I replace the screen with Xiaomi?
Theoretically yes, but there are nuances: πŸ› οΈ For Redmi/POCO Medium price range (for example, Redmi Note) 12) Replacing the screen yourself is possible if you have experience of soldering plumes. 🚫 On the flagships (Mi) 13 Ultra, Black Shark screen glued to body, and to replace need special glue and tools. ⚠️ Risks: damage the plume, leave dust under the screen, break the tightness (on models with a IP-certification). πŸ’° Cost of the matrix for self-replacement: from 2 000 before 8 000 β‚½ (Advice: If you've never repaired your phones, you should go to the service. It can cost you more to make a mistake.
❓ After the screen was replaced, the service appeared stripes?
This is a typical problem when using unoriginal matrices or unskilled repairs. Your actions: Return to the service and require warranty repairs (if it was provided); If there is no warranty, check if the original matrix was installed (the original Xiaomi screens have a hologram); Try to reflash the phone - sometimes the stripes disappear after updating the display drivers; if nothing helps, contact another service for diagnostics (possibly a damaged plume or screen controller).