Are you looking to fix US Cellular error code 408 when calling? We got you covered! In this article, you will learn what error code 408 is, its causes, and the best solutions to fix it.
Many US Cellular mobile users reported seeing the error on their phone’s screen. It usually happens when they have low or no signal.
As a result, they can’t make calls, send text messages, or use mobile data services.
Let’s get to the steps to solve this error.
Check your Internet connection to fix US Cellular error code 408 when calling. Either toggle Airplane Mode or restart your phone to refresh your network connection. Reset your phone’s network settings if these don’t clear the issue.
Before moving on to the troubleshooting steps, let us discuss what error code 408 means and its causes.
What is Error Code 408 US Cellular and Its Causes
Error Code 408 means that your mobile phone has no connection or has not received an answer from the server.
It is common with new installations or switching to a different network connection.
You can also say it’s a geo-restricted error as it usually happens on devices in a specific location.
The error generally occurs for a little while. So, you can say it happens due to the following reasons:
1. Network Outage
You can say the error happened due to a down server or temporary service outage.
2. Misconfigured Network Settings
Your phone should connect to a network automatically. If you use the wrong settings, the error occurs.
3. Temporary Bugs and Glitches
In some cases, a glitch in your phone’s software can cause the issue. Your device can’t find your network.
4. Outdated Phone Software
Older software can pose a lot of problems, including error code 408. Update your device if there’s one available.
Now that you know the most common causes of Cellular Error Code 408. Let us proceed to the surefire solutions you can do at home.
How to Fix US Cellular Error Code 408
Before you take advanced actions, check for network outages first. Visit Downdetector to know about the status of the server.
If there are no service outages in your area, try restarting your phone to refresh connections.
To restart your Android phone, hit the Power button until you see the menu. Select Restart to turn off and turn on your device automatically.
If you own an iPhone, restart it by pressing and holding the side button until the power-off slider appears. Drag the slider and wait 30 seconds for your phone to shut down.
If the issue persists after a restart, try the following surefire solutions.
Solution #1: Toggle Airplane Mode to Refresh Connections
Airplane mode disables many of the battery-draining features of your phone, so it performs only the basic functions.
It turns off all wireless communications, including WiFi, cellular, and Bluetooth. Toggling this mode refreshes your device’s connection with them.
Android:
- Go to Settings and tap Network & Internet.
- Tap the toggle next to Airplane Mode.
Tip: You can also activate Airplane Mode by swiping down from your home screen and select the icon.
iPhone:
- Go to Settings.
- Move the Airplane Mode slider to ON/green.
- Repeat the steps to turn it OFF/white.
Tip: Alternately, open the Control Center and tap the Airplane icon in the top left corner to turn on the Airplane Mode.
Note: If toggling the Airplane Mode does not clear the issue, try changing your phone’s network connections.
Solution #2: Change Your Phone’s Network Options
Your mobile phone is designed to connect to the fastest data connection available automatically.
However, in some cases, you need to change your phone’s network options manually.
Follow these steps.
From the home screen, navigate to Settings, then Cellular. If you don’t see it, then you’ll have to go through your App Library to select Cellular Data to switch it on.
If you have an eSIM, you’ll be able to enable Cellular Data on your preferred line.
- Select the Cellular Data Options menu.
- If you are using an eSIM, select the default eSIM line.
- Tap Voice & Data.
- Choose 3G/4G/5G.
Note: Switch to a lower network mode and see if this clears the problem.
Solution #3: Reset Your Phone’s Network Settings
If your WiFi isn’t connecting or the signal keeps dropping, try resetting your phone’s network settings.
It will affect your Bluetooth, WiFi, cellular, and even VPN connections. So, you have to set them up all over again from scratch.
- Go to Settings and tap General Management or System.
- Tap on Reset or Reset Options.
- Select Reset Network Settings.
- Confirm that you want to reset the settings.
Note: Your mobile phone will restart. Once it does, your settings will have been cleared and reset.
Solution #4: Update Your Phone’s Software
If toggling the Airplane Mode and resetting your phone’s network settings do not work, the problem may be with the software.
Outdated software can have bugs and glitches that can cause Error Code 408.
- Go to Settings.
- Scroll down to Software Update.
- If an update is available, tap on it to download the new version.
- Tap Install.
Note: Your phone will restart automatically once the update is complete. Hopefully, this fixes the issue.
Solution #5: Connect to the US Cellular Network Manually
Your phone should connect to the network automatically. All the instructions it needs are already on your SIM card so there’s nothing to worry about.
However, there are instances when your phone won’t proceed with the connection.
If this is the case, it’s your current network setting is the culprit, try connecting to the US Cellular network. You have to do it manually, though.
Here’s how to connect to the network manually:
- From a Home screen, tap Settings.
- Tap Cellular.
- Tap Cellular Network or Network Selection.
- Tap the Automatic switch, then wait up to 2 minutes.
- Tap on US Cellular network once it becomes available.
Tip: Check for active signal bars and the US Cellular name on your phone’s top display.
Note: The steps may vary depending on the iOS version, device model, and location.
Solution #6: Reset Your Phone to Default Settings
If none of the solutions above works, it is time to reset your phone to default settings. Note that doing so will erase all your downloaded apps and their data.
Android:
- Tap Settings from your home screen.
- Scroll down to the bottom and tap System.
- Tap Reset Options and select Erase All Data.
- Go to Reset Phone, and tap on it.
- Enter your PIN, tap Continue and Erase Everything to delete all data.
iPhone:
- Tap on Settings and go to General > Reset.
- Select Erase All Content and Settings.
- Type in your passcode to proceed.
- Select Erase iPhone.
- Enter your Apple ID password to start the reset process.
Note: The first step in resetting any device is to create a backup of all important data.
You might want to back up using your Google Account (Android) or iCloud (iPhone).
If nothing works, maybe the problem is on US Cellular’s end. Contact US Cellular’s customer service to solve the issue. Call them at 888-944-9400.
Read Next: US Cellular Data Not Working?
Bottom Line
Now you know how to fix US Cellular Error Code 408 when calling. Once you figure out the culprit, you can easily select the best solution.
We hope our guide helps you solve the issue on your end before you contact US Cellular customer support.
Finn Wheatley holds a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from UCL, London. He helped small data science consultancy firms, helping large corporations to grow their data capabilities, deploy advanced machine learning-based analytics and troubleshoot tech-related issues. Check out more about him here.