If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you’re facing the infamous Vodafone error 38. Don’t worry, you’ve landed on the right page! It’s important to understand that this is a common problem among Vodafone users and therefore, there is no need to panic.
Vodafone is a well-known and reliable network service provider, and fortunately, most of its errors are simple to fix. This article will provide you with a detailed analysis of the problem, as well as six possible solutions.
Error 38 is often associated with problems in Vodafone’s network connectivity, and can occur due to a number of reasons such as network congestion or technical issues. However, it can be resolved using simple solutions such as restarting your phone, checking your network settings, ensuring that your account has enough balance, and many others.
This article will guide you through each of these solutions, providing a step-by-step process to help you fix the issue as quickly and efficiently as possible. So, take a deep breath, relax and let’s get started on fixing the Vodafone error 38!
What Is the Vodafone Error 38?
When you encounter the Vodafone Error 38, it means that the network operator (Vodafone) is unable to send the SMS at that moment. This error is usually indicated by a red exclamation mark displayed next to the SMS that you attempted to send.
What Causes The Vodafone Error 38?
A significant number of Vodafone users worldwide have reported the same issue, indicating that it is a widespread problem among Vodafone service providers. Reports have come from various parts of the world, highlighting that it is a recurring problem. Upon investigation, three primary causes of this error have been identified.
A Problem With Your Network Settings
This problem may arise when there is a discrepancy between your pre-set network settings and the settings that your network carrier sends to your device.
SIM Card issue
To resolve this issue, it is recommended that you check your SIM card slots as the SIM card may have shifted or be experiencing other issues.
How to Fix The Vodafone Error 38
To resolve the Vodafone Error 38, the most effective approach is to use an elimination method to identify and rule out possible causes before proceeding with the main fixes. There are several ways to do this, including the following suggestions:
- Remove your SIM card and put it in another phone to check if the problem is from your device.
- Use the Vodafone status checker status checker to check for the network status of masts around you.
- Use this help thread that has a template to guide users through network issues.
- Check the receiver’s number and make sure it is correct.
If these methods don’t seem to give results, here are other methods.
Restart your phone
Restarting your phone is a simple yet effective solution for most technical issues, including the Vodafone Error 38. Although it may seem like a basic or generic solution, a hard restart often resolves the problem. The process of restarting your phone is effortless, and you are probably already familiar with it. However, if you are not, we have provided a guide for you to follow.
- Press the Power button and hold it down for a few seconds until the boot screen is displayed.
- On the boot screen, you’d see a prompt to “restart” or “reboot” your device(depending on which device you have).
- Click on or swipe the “restart” or “reboot button.
- Your device will automatically reboot then you, check to see if the SMS service has been resolved.
Keep reading for more possible solutions.
Lack of Vodafone Network
Have you ever picked up your phone and realized that your service bars are not displayed, or that you are having difficulty using basic services even though the bars are present? This may be the case as network providers can experience connectivity issues occasionally, or you may be in a location within your region that does not receive Vodafone coverage.
Reset Network Settings
If none of the recommended solutions work, the last resort is to reset your network settings to default. This option clears all saved settings for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data. Resetting your network settings can often resolve the Vodafone Error 38 when other methods fail.
- Go to Settings on your phone.
- Select either “General management” or “System,” depending on your device type
- Click on “Reset” or “Reset options.”
- Tap the option that says “Reset network settings.”
- Confirm
- When you do this, your device will reboot itself and when it’s back on, settings will be reset. You can then try again.
Select Vodafone Network Manually
The settings menu provides a multitude of methods to troubleshoot connectivity issues. You can manually access it by following these steps:
Go to your “Settings” on your phone.
Look for the “SIM & Network” or “Connections” option and click on it
If you have a dual SIM phone, select the Vodafone SIM so that you can toggle the settings of that one.
Scan for the “network operators” option from the list and open.
Tap the on/off switch next to “Choose automatically” to turn it off.
Hold on while your phone searches for available networks and then tap on Vodafone go set it as the primary network carrier.
If you are an iPhone user, the process is similar. The only difference is that instead of clicking on “SIM & network” or “Connections” in the settings, you need to select “Mobile Data”.
Update your Messages app
If your Messages app is outdated, it may cause messages to lag or glitch. To address this issue, you can follow these steps:
Open your Play Store or App Store
Search for “Messages” to find the application on the store.
There will be an icon that either indicates “Open” or “Update”.
If it shows ”Update”, this means there is a newer version of the app. If not, it means that the application is not the problem.
Replace your SIM Card
If you have attempted the previous solutions with no success, it is possible that the issue lies with a faulty SIM card. To eliminate other possible causes, you can try inserting the SIM card into another mobile device to see if the error persists.
If the error continues on the new device, this suggests that the SIM card is faulty and needs to be replaced. You can order a new SIM card and replace the old one. Alternatively, you can visit a Vodafone store where they can assist you with the SIM replacement process.
Set The SMSC Manually
Typically, your network provider would handle the process of setting the SMS service center number. However, if you are experiencing issues, you may need to manually set it yourself. To do this, you will need to obtain the correct SMSC number for your region or location by contacting your Vodafone network operator. You can click here to reach a network operator. Once you have obtained the number, follow these steps:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vodafone Error 38?
Vodafone Error 38 is an error message that appears when Vodafone users try to send SMS messages. It is indicated by a red exclamation mark next to the SMS.
Why does Vodafone Error 38 occur?
Vodafone Error 38 can occur due to various reasons such as network connectivity issues, outdated messaging apps, incorrect network settings, faulty SIM card, etc.
How common is Vodafone Error 38?
Vodafone Error 38 is a common occurrence amongst Vodafone users globally.
What are the solutions to fix Vodafone Error 38?
The solutions to fix Vodafone Error 38 are:
Restart your phone.
Toggle airplane mode on and off.
Reset network settings.
Update messaging apps.
Check SIM card slot and try another device.
Manually set SMS service center number.
How do I manually set the SMS service center number?
To manually set the SMS service center number, you will need to obtain the correct SMSC number for your region or location by contacting your Vodafone network operator. Once you have obtained the number, you can follow the steps mentioned in the article.
What if none of the solutions work?
If none of the solutions work, you can contact Vodafone customer support for further assistance.
Conclusion,
Experiencing the Vodafone Error 38 can be frustrating, but it is a common problem amongst Vodafone users that can be resolved quickly and easily. We have provided six possible solutions for this error, which include restarting your phone, checking your SIM card, resetting network settings, manually selecting network settings, updating your messages app, and setting the SMS service center number.
It is important to note that the Vodafone Error 38 can be caused by various factors, including network connectivity issues, conflicts between preset network settings and those received by your network carrier, outdated apps, and faulty SIM cards. By ruling out the possible causes of the error, you can quickly identify the best solution.
If you have tried all the solutions and are still experiencing the error, it is recommended that you contact Vodafone customer support for further assistance. They can provide more specific solutions based on your location, device, and network settings.
