Experiencing your Samsung phone restarting by itself It can be one of the most frustrating situations, especially if it occurs in the middle of important tasks, during a call, or even when the device is idle. This problem can be caused by software or physical component failures, but fortunately, the vast majority can be resolved if the proper steps are followed and the source of the failure is clearly understood.
Main reasons why a Samsung phone restarts by itself
There are various causes that can cause Automatic restart on Samsung phonesTo find a definitive solution, it's key to identify, through symptoms and context, which of them is responsible:
- Overheating: One of the most common causes, as the device restarts as a protective measure.
- Errors in system or application updates: A bad update can cause instability and reboots.
- Poorly optimized or incompatible third-party applications: Unofficial software or malicious apps can force automatic restarts.
- Defective, swollen or damaged battery: Poor power can cause shutdowns and reboots, which is very common as your phone ages.
- Power button damaged or accidentally pressed: Either a damaged physical button or a case that presses on the button can be responsible.
- Corrupt or damaged files: Usually after a failed update.
- Defective SIM or microSD card: A bad connection can cause reboot loops.
- Malware or virus:Malicious software can deeply affect system stability.
- Failure after modifying the system (root, ROMs, etc.): Unofficial manipulations can cause critical incompatibilities.
- Lack of storage space: When there is no free space, the system may behave erratically and reboot.
Overheating
Overheating is one of the most common causes of automatic restarts. The system has protection mechanisms and, when temperatures rise, it restarts to preserve its components. This can be due to intensive use (gaming, videos, editing), operation under the sun or in hot environments, as well as apps malfunctioning in the background.
If your phone overheats and restarts, it's best to turn it off and let it cool in a cool place, avoiding direct heat sources and not placing it in humid environments or under air conditioning, to prevent condensation.
Software errors: updates, ROMs, and corrupted files
A common mistake occurs when performing a failed operating system updateThis can cause the phone to enter a reboot loop, especially if the update was interrupted or an incompatible ROM was installed. Corrupt files generated during this process can also cause serious stability issues.
In other cases, installing custom ROMs or manipulating the system (rooting) can cause incompatibilities. If, after manipulating the software, the phone won't boot and keeps restarting, this is likely the problem.
Faulty or incompatible third-party applications
The unoptimized or malicious applications can force the device to restart automatically. Installing apps outside the Google Play Store or apps that aren't adapted to the system version can overload internal resources, forcing restarts. Even legitimate but outdated apps can conflict with the system and cause unstable behavior.
In these cases, the best thing to do is identify and uninstall the problematic app. If the restarts stop after deleting a specific app, it's best not to reinstall it or look for an updated version.
Bad battery
With the passage of time, Batteries lose capacity and stabilityA swollen or damaged battery can cause sudden shutdowns and automatic restarts, even if the apparent charge is sufficient.
Common symptoms of a failing battery include unexpected restarts, sudden changes in charge level, or shutting down even though the battery percentage indicates sufficient battery. If you experience these signs, it's a good idea to check the battery status by looking in the power usage settings and, if necessary, contact a service center to have the battery checked and replaced.
Power button defective or accidentally pressed
El power button can trigger reboots If it's damaged or if a case, stand, or other accessory accidentally presses on it. It could also be due to accumulated dirt or a mechanical failure after a knock or fall.
It's recommended to remove the cover and check if the button is working properly, as well as gently clean it with a cotton swab moistened with isopropyl alcohol. If the problem persists, it's a good idea to have the hardware checked by a professional.
Corrupt files after system crashes
Sometimes, corrupted files after an interrupted update or a failed data restore can cause reboot loops. These files are often difficult to identify manually, but the symptom is clear when the reboot loop begins immediately after updating the device.
Defective SIM or microSD card
A damaged or improperly inserted SIM or microSD card can cause connectivity issues or internal short circuits, triggering spontaneous reboots. To rule out this cause, remove both cards and check if the phone keeps rebooting. If the problem disappears, replace the SIM or microSD card.
Lack of storage space
El Insufficient space can saturate working memory system, causing crashes and reboots. If your storage is full, it's essential to free up space by deleting unnecessary files, app cache, photos, old videos, or data from apps you no longer use.
Malware or virus
El malware and viruses Not only do they slow down your device, they can also cause random reboots by consuming resources or interfering with critical processes. If you've installed apps from suspicious sources or your phone is exhibiting strange behavior, run a security scan with a reliable antivirus and consider resetting your system if the infections can't be removed.
How to fix the reboot problem on a Samsung mobile
The solutions to fix your Samsung phone's automatic restart depend directly on the cause. Here's a step-by-step method to identify and solve the problem:
1. Update the operating system
The first step should always be to make sure that your Samsung mobile It has the latest version of Android and security patchesBugs and vulnerabilities that can cause automatic reboots are usually fixed in new versions of the system.
- Accede to Settings> Software update.
- Check for new versions available and install them.
- Manually reboot your device after updating.
2. Clean up phone storage
A full storage may block normal operation, so:
- Go to Settings> Storage to check the available space.
- Delete photos, videos, files, and apps you don't use.
- Use the function storage cleaner from Samsung (in Device care).
- Consider using cloud storage or microSD for your files and free up your phone's internal memory.
3. Boot the device into Safe Mode
El Safe Mode Allows the phone to boot with only essential apps. If the phone stops rebooting in this mode, a third-party app is almost certainly the culprit:
- Switch off the mobile phone.
- Turn it on by holding down the power button and, after the Samsung logo appears, hold down the power key. lower volume.
- You will see “Safe Mode” on the screen.
- In this mode, remove recently installed or updated apps, especially those outside of Google Play or with excessive permissions.
- To exit safe mode, restart your phone normally.
This step also allows you to access the Google Play Store and update all your apps, prioritizing those that have errors.
4. Update or remove conflicting applications
Outdated or incompatible apps can cause reboots. From the Google Play Store, go to Manage apps and device, review recently updated or installed apps, and update or remove them if they are suspected to be the cause of the problem.
5. Free up RAM by closing unnecessary processes
Keeping too many apps open or processes running in the background will saturate the RAM, causing slowdowns and reboots. Use the task manager or the optimizer. Device care to close applications that you are not using.
6. Clear the system cache from Recovery Mode
A corrupt cache can destabilize the system. To clean it:
- Turn off the device.
- Press the power button and the volume up button simultaneously until you enter the Recovery mode.
- Use the volume keys to select wipe cache partition and confirm with the power button.
- Restart your phone and check if the problem persists.
7. Check the SIM and microSD cards
A faulty SIM or microSD card can cause short circuits, forcing a system reboot. Remove both, carefully clean the contacts, and reinstall them. If the problem disappears, try replacing the one causing the problem.
8. Scan your phone for viruses or malware
Use functions like Device Maintenance > Security or a trusted antivirus to scan your phone for malware or suspicious apps. If any dangerous items are detected, follow the system's prompts to remove them.
9. Restore factory settings
If the above measures do not work, the most radical but effective option is to reset your phone to factory settings:
- First, make a full backup of your data (photos, contacts, documents, etc.).
- Go to Settings > General Manager > Reset > Factory Reset.
- Follow the on-screen steps to complete the procedure.
Please note that all content on the phone will be erased and returned to its original factory state.
10. Check your phone's hardware
If, even after restoring to factory settings and trying safe mode, the reboots persist, The origin may be a physical failure in the hardwareAmong the most common causes are:
- Swollen or defective battery
- Power button faulty
- Liquid or drop damage
- Problems with the motherboard or internal components
In any of these cases, the best thing to do is to consult a specialized technical service. Take advantage of the warranty if the phone is still covered, or seek out professionals with experience in Samsung phone repair.
11. Check if an external accessory is causing the problem
Cases, selfie sticks, mounts, or accessories can accidentally press buttons or make poor contact with your phone's ports. Remove all accessories and check if your phone keeps restarting. Even a faulty charging cable or charger can cause restarts while your phone is connected.
12. Physically clean the ports and power button
Dust and lint can accumulate in ports (USB, headphone jacks) and around the power button, causing short circuits or mechanical blockages that cause reboots. Turn off your phone and use a cotton swab, compressed air, or a wooden toothpick to gently clean these areas.
13. Use the Samsung Members diagnostic feature
On recent mobiles, you can access the app Samsung Members to perform advanced device diagnostics. This feature can detect hardware and software errors and offer additional recommendations.
Beware of hardware and signs that you need to see a technician
Sometimes, despite all attempts, the source of the failure cannot be solved by softwareClear signs that you should see a professional technician are:
- The phone restarts when it is off or without a case
- The reboot occurs even after restoring factory settings and without any apps installed.
- Deformed, swollen, or leaking battery (dangerous and requires immediate attention)
- Visible damage to the charging ports or housing
- Restarts after serious falls or contact with liquids
In these cases, do not attempt to disassemble the device yourself, as this could void the warranty or worsen the damage.
Tips to prevent automatic reboots on Samsung phones
- Keep the system and applications always up to date from official sources.
- Avoid installing apps outside of the Google Play Store unless they are completely trustworthy.
- Performs Regular cache and storage cleanups.
- Don't overload your phone with open apps or multitask excessively on low-end phones.
- Protect your phone from bumps, drops, and liquids by using quality cases and avoiding risky environments.
- Use genuine Samsung chargers and accessories to avoid overheating or battery damage.
- Scan regularly for viruses or malware, and keep your antivirus software up to date if possible.
- Make sure you have enough free space in your internal memory.
Dealing with automatic reboots on Samsung phones primarily requires a thorough identification of the cause. Most of the time, the origin will be related to conflicting software, updates, or applications, which can be solved by following the detailed steps. If after all the solutions the problem persists, we are probably facing a physical failure of the hardwareIn that case, it's essential to call a specialized technician and not delay the repair to avoid further damage. Keeping your system up-to-date and adopting responsible usage habits is the best way to prevent your Samsung phone from experiencing unexpected reboots in the future.
