Symptoms
- No sound through wired headphones
- Sound only in one ear
- Phone thinks headphones are plugged in when they aren't
Likely causes
- CommonLint or debris in the jackPocket lint can block the contacts inside the jack.
- CommonDamaged headphone cable or connectorA bent or frayed plug is a very common cause mistaken for a phone problem.
- PossibleMoisture triggering headphone modeSome phones lock into 'headphones detected' mode after water exposure until dried.
What to do
- Test a different pair of headphones to rule out a bad cable.
- Look into the jack with a flashlight for lint or debris and remove it gently with a wooden toothpick.
- If the phone thinks headphones are plugged in with nothing inserted, this can indicate moisture — let it dry fully and restart.
- Clean the jack with a short burst of compressed air.
- If a known-good pair of headphones still doesn't work after cleaning, the jack itself may need repair.
Tools and parts
- Flashlight
- Wooden toothpick
- Compressed air
- Known-good headphones
Headphone jack flex cableSearch: “headphone jack replacement for your model”
When to call a pro
If a different pair of headphones and cleaning don't fix it, a repair shop can replace the headphone jack assembly.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.