The proximity sensor in Xiaomi smartphones is a small but critical element that is responsible for automatically turning off the screen during a phone call. When it fails, you get "ghost" taps, spontaneously completing calls, or a constantly burning display near your ear, POCO Xiaomi 13 has started to behave like this β most likely, this sensor is to blame.
The cost of replacing it varies from 500 to 3500 rubles depending on the model, type of service center and region.
- π How to accurately diagnose a sensor malfunction (rather than confusing it with firmware or glass problems)
- π° Current prices for 2026 for popular models - from Redmi Note 12 to Xiaomi 14 Ultra
- π§ Should you change your own β risks, tools and where to buy spare parts?
- π’ Comparison of services: official centers vs private workshops vs "garage" repairs
Spoiler: 80 percent of the time, the solution is to clean the connector or flash it over, not to replace the sensor, but if the sensor is really dead, we can figure out how to save up to 50 percent on repairs without losing quality.
How to tell if the sensor is broken: 5 key symptoms
Before you run to the service, make sure that the problem is in the sensor, not the software or mechanical damage.
- π± The screen does not go out during the call, even when the phone is pressed to the ear, and the settings include the function Automatically turn off the screen.
- π» "Ghostly" presses: the smartphone opens the application, dials numbers or returns to the home screen without your participation.
- π Frequent call breaks when the screen accidentally presses the "Finish Call" button with the cheek.
- π οΈ The sensor test in the engineering menu shows the values 0 or 1 Whether the sensor is closed or not (normally: 0 β closed, 5-10 β open-minded).
- π‘οΈ Problems after falling or getting moisture: The proximity sensor often fails when hitting the top of the screen (where it is located).
β οΈ Note: If the screen doesn't go out only in certain apps (like WhatsApp or Telegram), the problem is more with the software settings than the hardware. β Annexes β Permits.
To exclude software failure, reset the sensor settings:
- Open the Phone app and type ##6484## (or #4636## on older models).
- Select the Test Proximity Sensor.
- Check the response to the hand closing/opening sensor, if the values do not change, the sensor is defective.
Cost of replacing the proximity sensor in 2026: comparison by model
The price of repair depends on three factors:
- Smartphone model β in flagships (Xiaomi) 13/14, Mix Fold sensors are more expensive and harder to replace.
- Type of service - official centers are taken 30-50% more than private workshops.
- Region - in Moscow and St. Petersburg repairs for 20-25% more expensive than in the regions.
The table below shows the current prices for June 2026 for popular models (including work and parts):
| Xiaomi model | Official service (β½) | Private workshop (β½) | Self-sustaining replacement (β½, just a spare part) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 12 / 12 Pro | 1 200 β 1 800 | 800 β 1 300 | 300 β 500 |
| POCO X5 / X5 Pro | 1 500 β 2 000 | 900 β 1 400 | 400 β 600 |
| Xiaomi 12T / 12 Lite | 1 800 β 2 500 | 1 200 β 1 800 | 500 β 800 |
| Xiaomi 13 / 13 Pro | 2 500 β 3 500 | 1 800 β 2 500 | 800 β 1 200 |
| Xiaomi Mix Fold 2/3 | 3 000 β 4 500 | 2 500 β 3 500 | 1 200 β 1 800 |
β οΈ Note: In official services, Xiaomi often insists on a complete replacement of the display module (even if only the sensor is broken), which increases the price to 5,000-10,000. β½. This is not always justified β in 90% of cases, the sensor can be replaced separately.
If you are offered a "comprehensive repair" without a detailed diagnosis, this is an excuse to look for another workshop. AMOLED-screens (Xiaomi) 12/13), Where glass replacement is expensive.
Where to replace the proximity sensor: comparison of services
The choice of workshop directly affects the final cost. Let's consider the pros and cons of each option:
1. Official Xiaomi Service Centers
- β 6-12 months guarantee for work and spare parts.
- β Original details (but not always β see below).
- β Diagnosis is free (if you repair them).
- β Prices are 30-50% higher than in private workshops.
- β Often imposed unnecessary services (e.g., replacing the entire display).
2. Private service centres
- β Prices are 20 to 40 lower%.
- β Faster time (often repairs in 1-2 hours).
- β You can agree on used parts (savings up to 50%).
- β Risk of unoriginal parts (check before repair!).
- β Warranty is usually 1-3 months (less often - 6 months).
βGarageβ workshops and home repairs
- β The lowest prices (sometimes 2 times cheaper than official centers).
- β Masters often take on complex cases (for example, after unsuccessful self-repair).
- β No guarantee or it is symbolic (1-2 weeks).
- β Risk of damage to other components (e.g., screen plume).
π‘ Tip: Before choosing a service, check:
βοΈ How to Choose a Reliable Workshop
If you are in Moscow or St. Petersburg, pay attention to the proven networks:
- π§ iFix β Average prices, 6 months warranty.
- π§ Service-Ya β there are often promotions (e.g. 20% discount on Redmi repairs).
- π§ Xiaomi repairs (specialized workshops) β usually cheaper than universal services.
Can I replace the sensor by myself?
Technically, yes, but it's not easy to repair, especially for beginners.
- π οΈ Tools: set of screwdrivers (cross, flat, torx) T3/T4), plastic blades, tweezers, hair dryer (for unplugging the screen).
- π± Part: proximity sensor for your model (you can buy on AliExpress, Maizu or in local parts stores).
- πΉ Disassembly Guide: Look for videos specifically for your model (e.g. Redmi Note 12 Pro disassembly on YouTube).
- π§² Magnetic mat for screws (so as not to lose).
π΄ The difficulties you will face:
- Risk of damage to the screen plume or battery (especially in models with adhesive display, such as Xiaomi 13).
- Hard-to-reach location of the sensor β in some smartphones it is hidden under a metal frame.
- The need to reglue the screen (you will need a new glue, for example, B-7000).
- Calibration after replacement - without it, the sensor may not work properly.
If you do, here is a step-by-step instruction (on the example of the Redmi Note). 10/11/12):
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the sensor
β οΈ Attention: In Xiaomi models 12/13/14 The proximity sensor is often soldered into a flexible plume along with the front camera, and replacing it requires a soldering station and experience with microelectronics. Without skills, you risk damaging the camera or microphone.
π‘ Alternative: If the sensor is not completely dead, but just contaminated, try cleaning the connector with alcohol and a soft brush, which solves the problem 30 percent of the time without replacing it.
Where to buy a proximity sensor for Xiaomi: a review of trusted sellers
If you decide to replace the sensor yourself or find a spare part for the master, here are reliable sources (prices are current for June 2026):
| Salesman | Average price (β½) | Pluses | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| AliExpress | 200 β 800 | The lowest prices, the greatest choice | Long delivery (2-4 weeks), risk of counterfeiting |
| Maizu (meizu.com) | 400 β 1 500 | Original and high-quality analogues, fast delivery | Prices are higher than on AliExpress |
| Local parts stores | 500 β 2 000 | You can take it right away, sometimes you give a guarantee. | Limited range, not always available |
| Avito/Yula | 300 β 1 200 | You can find used sensors cheaply. | High risk of buying a faulty part |
π How to Choose the Right Sensor:
- Check out the exact model of your smartphone (e.g. Redmi Note 12 Pro) 5G Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G have different sensors!).
- Look for the phrases in the description: Proximity Sensor, Approach Sensor or Approach Sensor.
- Compare the sensor photos to your original one (if youβve already taken your phone apart).
- Pay attention to reviews β often sellers indicate whether the part is suitable for your model.
β οΈ Note: In some models (Xiaomi Mi 11, 12), the proximity sensor is assembled with a lighting sensor (for automatic brightness control). If you buy only the proximity sensor, the brightness of the screen will be lost!
Frequent errors when replacing the proximity sensor and how to avoid them
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to re-repair or additional breakdowns.
- π Undisconnected battery β if you forget to disconnect the battery plume, you can burn the motherboard when manipulating the sensor.
- π§² Magnetic interference β do not use metal tools near the sensor (it is sensitive to magnetic fields).
- π Incorrect installation β if the sensor is shifted even by 1 mm, it will not work correctly (for example, the screen will go out too early).
- π₯ Overheating when soldering β in models with soldered sensor (Xiaomi 13) you can not overheat the board above 300Β°C, or other components will be removed.
- π§Ό Connector contamination β if you donβt clean the contacts with alcohol before installing a new sensor, it may not work.
π‘ Tip: After replacement, be sure to calibrate the sensor:
- Dial ##6484##.
- Select Proximity Sensor Calibration.
- Follow the instructions on the screen (usually close the sensor with your hand and wait 5-10 seconds).
If the sensor does not work after replacement:
- Check the integrity of the plume - it may be damaged.
- Update the firmware - sometimes sensor glitches are associated with bugs MIUI.
- Reset the settings to factory (but do backup first!).
π‘
If you change the sensor, the screen stops responding to touch, or if you see colored bands, you're likely to have a damaged plume on the display. Turn off your phone immediately and call the service!