Approximation sensor on Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro: why it does not work and how to fix

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro is one of the most popular mid-range smartphones, but even it is not immune to hardware failures. One of the common problems that owners face is the incorrect operation of the proximity sensor. This small but important sensor is responsible for turning off the screen during a phone conversation, preventing accidental tapping of the cheek or ear. When it fails, calls turn into torture: the screen does not go out, the keys are pressed arbitrarily, and sometimes completely stop responding to touch.

In this article, we will look at all possible causes of malfunction, from software failures to physical damage, and give step-by-step instructions for diagnosis and repair. You will learn how to check the sensor without special tools, reset it, refashion the smartphone and even replace the module with your own hands (if you are ready for this).

How the proximity sensor works and why it breaks

The proximity sensor in the Redmi Note 10 Pro is an infrared sensor that emits invisible light and picks up its reflection from objects. When you hold the phone to your ear, the sensor picks up the obstacle and sends a signal to the system to turn off the screen. The Redmi Note 10 Pro uses a combined module that also includes a light sensor (for automatic brightness adjustment).

The main causes of malfunction:

📱 Software failures: firmware errors, conflicts after the update MIUI or customization ROM.
🔧 Sensor pollution: Dust, grease, or protective film/glass can block infrared signal.
💥 Physical damage: Falls, bumps, or moisture often disable the sensor.
⚡ Failure of the plume: oxidation of contacts or break of the connection between the motherboard and the sensor module.
🔄 Calibration failure: After replacing the screen or battery, the sensor may require re-tuning.

Fun fact: In the Redmi Note 10 Pro, the proximity sensor is located to the right of the speaker for conversation (if you look at the screen), it is easy to identify from the small circular hole next to the front camera. If you look closely, you can see two of these holes — one for the infrared emitter, the second for the receiver.

📊 Have you experienced a failure of the proximity sensor?

Yes, on the Redmi Note 10 Pro.

Yes, on another Xiaomi model.

No, but I've heard about this problem.

No, first time I'll know.

How to check the proximity sensor without special tools

Before you start repairing, make sure the sensor is the problem. There are some simple tests to do this:

Call the phone and hold the Redmi Note 10 Pro to your ear. If the screen doesn't go out or doesn't turn on after you've turned your phone away, the sensor is faulty.
Manual check: open the Phone app, dial ##6484## (or #4636### → "Equipment Testing"). In the menu, find the Proximity Sensor and cover the sensor with your hand. The value should change from 5.0 cm to 0.0 cm. If the numbers don't change, the sensor doesn't work.
Visual inspection: put a flashlight on the sensor, and if you see any contamination or scratches on the security glass, that might be the problem.

If the sensor doesn't respond to any of the tests, go to the cause of the diagnosis. If there is a reaction but it is unstable (for example, the screen goes out with a delay), try calibrating the sensor.

💡

In some MIUI firmware, the sensor test is hidden. To open it, install the MTK Engineering Mode app from Google Play (for MediaTek-based devices only).

Calibration of the proximity sensor: step-by-step instructions

Often, the problem is solved by simple calibration, which does not require root rights or special knowledge.

Enable the Developer Mode (Settings) → The phone. → 7 times tap on "Version" MIUI")|

Open Settings → More → For developers → Quick testing of equipment |

Select "Proximation Sensor" and follow the prompts on the screen |

Reboot your phone after calibration

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If standard calibration doesn’t help, try resetting the sensor settings via the engineering menu:

Open the Phone app and type ##36446337##.
Go to Hardware Testing → Sensor → Proximity Sensor.
Press Calibrate and wait for the process to be completed.
Reset the device.

Important: After calibration, do not stick a new protective film or glass for 24 hours - the sensor needs time to "get used" to new conditions.

Software solutions to the problem

If the sensor is physically functional but it's not working properly, it could be the firmware.

🔄 Resetting Settings: Go to Settings → The phone. → Setting reset. Select "Reset All Settings" (without deleting data) to return the sensors to the factory settings.
📲 Update MIUI: Check for updates in Settings → System update. Sometimes bugs get fixed in new firmware versions.
🛠️ Install custom software: if the problem appeared after the update, rollback to the old version MIUI Or installing custom firmware (e.g. Pixel Experience) can help.Caution: this is a risky move that could lead to loss of warranty.
🚫 Disable optimization: in the settings for developers (Settings) → Additionally. → For developers, disable the optimization option MIUI and reboot the phone.

If after a reset or update, the sensor worked, but after a while the problem returned, most likely, the conflict with the installed applications is to blame.

⚠️ Warning: Installing custom firmware on the Redmi Note 10 Pro requires unlocking the bootloader, a process that erases all data from the device and can lead to encryption issues if you don't back up in advance.

Cleaning and repairing the sensor with your own hands

If the software methods didn't work, the problem could be physical contamination or damage to the sensor.

🧴 Alcohol wipes (70% isopropyl alcohol).
🔍 Loupe or magnifying glass.
🪛 Plastic blade (for careful slashing of glass).
💨 Compressed air container (optional).

Step-by-step instructions for cleaning:

Turn off the phone and remove it. SIM-map.
Carefully apply the protective glass over the sensor (if any). If the glass is glued tightly, warm it with a hair dryer at a minimum temperature of 1-2 minutes.
Wipe the sensor area with an alcohol napkin. Don't push hard, it's fragile!
Blow the sensor holes with compressed air to remove the dust.
Let the phone dry for 10-15 minutes before turning on.

If the sensor is damaged (for example, cracked glass or visible oxidation of contacts), it will have to be replaced. For the Redmi Note 10 Pro, a module with the article MDY11-EG-16SP or MDY11-EG-26SP (depending on the version of the device) will suit the module with the article MDY11-EG-26SP (depending on the version of the device).

How to check the sensor for oxidation?

The oxidation of the sensor contacts can be detected by disassembling the phone and examining the plume connecting the module to the motherboard. Signs of oxidation: - Green or white plaque on the contacts. - Darkening of the tracks on the plume. - Unstable operation of the sensor when the position of the phone changes (for example, only works in the horizontal position).

When to contact the service center

Not all breakdowns can be repaired by yourself.

🔌 The sensor does not work even after the module is replaced (may be a problem with the motherboard).
💦 The phone fell into the water or was subjected to severe humidity (diagnosis for corrosion is required).
⚡ After replacing the screen, the sensor stopped working (possibly damaged plume or incorrectly connected connector).
🔧 You are not sure about your skills in soldering or disassembling phones.

Cost of repairs in service centers:

Type of work	Cost (₽)	Implementation time
Sensor diagnostics	300–500	15-30 minutes
Cleaning/repairing contacts	800–1 500	1-2 hours
Replacement of the proximity sensor	1 200–2 000	2-4 hours
Replacement of sensor plume	1 500–2 500	3-5 hours
Repairs after moisture	2 000–5 000	1-3 days

In official Xiaomi service centers, repairs will cost more, but you will get a guarantee for work. In informal workshops, prices are lower, but the risk of poor repairs is higher. Always ask what parts will be used (original or analogue).

⚠️ Warning: If the phone is warranty, don't open it yourself! In this case, only contact authorized service centers.

Frequent errors in the repair of the proximity sensor

Many users compound the problem by trying to fix the sensor in the wrong way.

🔨 Pressing hard on the sensor when cleaning – this can damage fragile contacts.
🔥 Use acetone or solvents for cleaning – they destroy the protective coating of the sensor.
⚡ Try to solder the plume without experience - improper soldering can disable the motherboard.
📱 Install protective glasses with an opaque coating above the sensor – this blocks the infrared signal.
🔄 Resetting settings via Fastboot without backup – this can result in loss IMEI.

Another common mistake is to ignore the check after repair. After any manipulation of the sensor (cleaning, replacing, calibrating), be sure to test it on the engineering menu and during the actual call. If the problem persists, then the cause is deeper (for example, in the firmware or motherboard).

1. Correct connection of the plume (the connector must be clicked with the characteristic sound).

2. no contamination at new contacts.

3. Part compatibility with your version of Redmi Note 10 Pro (modules for the global and Chinese versions may differ!).-->

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

Can I use my phone if the proximity sensor is not working?

Yes, but it's inconvenient. The screen won't go out when you're calling, so you'll have to manually lock it with a power button or use headphones, and you'll also have the risk of accidentally tapping it while you're talking.

Why does the sensor only work in a horizontal position?

This is a sign of unstable contact of the plume or its partial oxidation. Try reconnecting the plume (if you disassemble the phone yourself) or contact the service to clean the contacts.

After the screen was replaced, the sensor stopped working.

Most likely, the masters did not connect the sensor plume or damaged it when installing a new display. Go back to the workshop and demand free repair of the defect (if the warranty for repair is still valid).

Can I turn off the proximity sensor altogether?

Technically, yes, but that won't solve the problem. In the engineering menu (#36446337###), you can turn off the sensor, but then the screen won't go out during calls, better fix the sensor or use alternative methods (for example, headphones).

How much does it cost to replace the sensor in the official Xiaomi service?

In authorized service centers, replacing the proximity sensor with the Redmi Note 10 Pro will cost 1,500-2,500 rubles (including spare parts and work), the price depends on the region and the availability of shares.