Help! My Xperia fingerprint sensor doesn’t work or stopped working

First off, you can run a quick diagnostic test in the Support app on your Xperia phone:

1. Open the Support app.
   • Find and tap Settings → Support.
2. If this is the first time you're using the Support app, tap ACCEPT to accept the privacy policy.
3. Tap Xperia Tests () at the bottom right. 
4. Tap Fingerprint sensor. 
5. If you don't have a fingerprint registed on your Xperia, tap Register.
6. Enter your phone PIN or password to proceed.
7. On the Set up your fingerprint screen, read the text carefully, then select I agree.
8. Read the tips on the Before starting screen, then tap Next.
9. Follow the on-screen instructions on the Register your fingerprint screen.
10. Once your fingerprint has been added, tap Done.
11. You will be prompted to place your fingertip on the sensor to check for a response.
    • If Yes, you will see the message Test passed.
    • If No, you will see recommended actions you can take to resolve the issue.

1. Clean the fingerprint sensor gently with a clean and dry cloth.
2. Restart your phone.
   • From the Support app:
     1. Open the Support app.
     2. Scroll down to Recommended actions.
     3. Tap Restart your device.
   • Using the Power and Volume Up (+) buttons:
     1. Press and hold the Power button and Volume Up (+) button at the same time. 
     2. Tap Restart.

From the Support app

1. Open the Support app.
2. Scroll down to Recommended actions.
3. Tap Update your software.

From the Settings menu

1. Find and tap Settings.
2. Tap System.
3. Tap Software update.
4. Tap the SYSTEM tab.
5. Tap the software update version (if available).

1. Find and tap Settings.
2. Tap Security.
3. The next steps will depend on your Android version:
   • Tap More security settings → Trust agents.
   • Scroll down the Security screen → tap Trust agents.
4. Tap Smart Lock / Extend Unlock to turn it OFF.
5. Restart your phone.
6. Revisit the Trust Agents setting and turn Smart Lock / Extend Unlock ON.

Tip: Update your phone's software before re-registering your fingerprint.

1. Clean the fingerprint sensor gently with a clean and dry cloth.
2. Find and tap Settings → Security → Fingerprint Manager.
3. Re-enter your PIN or password.
4. Delete all registered fingerprints by tapping the trash can icon beside each profile.
5. Tap Add fingerprint and follow the on-screen instructions to register your fingerprint.

You can register up to five fingerprints. If the issue still occurs, try to add the same finger to Finger 2, 3, 4, or 5, but tap in a slightly different location on the sensor.

How to place your finger for optimal registration  

Warning: A factory reset will erase all data from your phone's internal storage and return your phone to factory conditions.

1. Go to Settings.
2. Tap System.
3. Select Reset Options.
4. Choose Erase all data (factory reset).

After the factory reset, you will be able to re-register your fingerprint.