Rear Camera (main camera / middle)

Question

Samsung Galaxy S21 FE

Samsung Galaxy S21 FE (Fan Edition) is a variant of the S21 model and was released on January 11th 2022. The phone has a few changes from the main S21 model, making it slightly cheaper.

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James @james17114

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crwdns2931729:0crwdne2931729:0: Mha 19, 2025

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Rear Camera (main camera / middle)

Has anyone come across this issue. We have been repairing phones for 8 years and this is a first for us.

Galaxy S21 FE 5G (SM-G990E) We replaced the main camera as exposed when back lens cracked and was damaged.

We have replaced 3 cameras and none work. they are Samsung Service centre parts

Camera app, says Camera Failed and closes down
*#0*# test menu won't load the camera test
Samsung Members app test says send to Samsung service centre.

We have checked the serial number on the original camera is the same number on the replacement. As some charging ports the U / B model is important for function. But Original and New same serial on the part.

the Samsung Self Repair Assistant App, is not available in Australia. We have downloaded the Apk file from US version. and won't run the calibration.

Have I been extremely unlucky and just had 3 faulty cameras or is there some new software issue stopping it from functioning.

Safe mode I have tried
all software is up to date

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score 0 · Answer 1 · 2025-08-19T01:22:06-07:00

Hi @james17114

Check the status of the LDI (liquid damage indicator) to see if any water/liquid has entered the phone through the cracked camera lens and has caused any damage.

If it is OK or even if not, the service manual will help to find out what's wrong.

I couldn't find a free download online (you may have better luck) but here's a link to a download for a model variant that is not too expensive.

The manual has troubleshooting flowcharts for most of the functions of the phone as well as board layout diagrams. Use the search function of your browser to find the location of the components mentioned in the relevant flowchart. You may have to zoom in a lot to see them ;-)

I don't know about this particular manual, but most also have a comprehensive parts list as well i.e. includes board components e.g. capacitors, resistors, inductors etc as well.

If there is a parts list and if you find the problem and it's a faulty part that needs replacing, search online for Samsung (insert wanted part number) to find suppliers that suit you best.

Samsung Galaxy S21 FE

Rear Camera (main camera / middle)

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