Physical & water damage

Microphone not working after a drop

A microphone that stops working after a drop can be a loose connector, a blocked mic port, or actual damage to the tiny mic component.

Difficulty
Moderate
Time
20–30 minutes to test
DIY cost
$0
Pro cost
$40–$100

Symptoms

  • Callers say they can't hear you
  • Voice memos or voice assistant don't pick up sound
  • Video recordings have no audio

Likely causes

  • CommonDebris blocking the microphone holeDust or lint covering the tiny mic opening muffles or blocks sound.
  • PossibleLoose internal connector from the impactA drop can jar the microphone's small connector loose.
  • CommonCase covering the mic holeA case that shifted after the drop may now block the mic port.

What to do

  1. Check that no case, sticker, or screen protector is covering the microphone hole.
  2. Test different apps — regular calls, voice memo, video — to see if the issue is app-specific or all microphones.
  3. Clean the microphone hole gently with a soft dry brush or a can of compressed air.
  4. Try a phone call on speakerphone versus normal mode, since some phones use different mics for each.
  5. Restart the phone in case it's a software glitch triggered by the impact.
  6. If no mic works in any mode after cleaning and restarting, it's likely a hardware issue from the drop.

Tools and parts

  • Soft brush
  • Compressed air
Replacement microphone componentSearch: “microphone flex replacement for your model”

When to call a pro

If cleaning and restarting don't restore the mic, a repair shop can check the connector and replace the microphone component if needed.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.