Biometrics & Attendance · Troubleshooting

ZKTeco F18 Fingerprint Not Working? Fixes

Fingers not recognised, 'please try again' or a machine that won't respond: what to check.

Every day this stays broken costs you more than the repair would.

Read on: it takes a few minutes and could save you a lot more than that.

In this guide you will see:
  • Clean the sensor glass gently.
  • Re-enrol with the finger flat and centred.
  • Dry or worn fingers: enrol a different finger or use face/card.
By Qyvea LimitedPublished 2026-10-03Updated 2026-10-032 min read
On this page01. Symptom guide02. Machine not working at all?03. FAQ
ZKTeco F18
Quick answer

Most fingerprint failures come from the finger or the enrolment, not the machine: a dirty or scratched sensor, dry, wet or worn fingers, or a fingerprint enrolled badly. Clean the sensor, re-enrol two fingers carefully, and consider face or card for staff with worn prints. If nothing reads at all, check power, settings and the sensor itself.

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Key takeaways

  • Clean the sensor glass gently.
  • Re-enrol with the finger flat and centred.
  • Dry or worn fingers: enrol a different finger or use face/card.
  • Nothing reads at all: power, firmware or sensor fault.
  • Check verification mode wasn't changed.

01Symptom guide

SymptomLikely causeFix
One person fails oftenPoor enrolment or worn fingersRe-enrol two fingers; add card or face
Everyone failsDirty or damaged sensorClean; replace sensor if scratched
Sensor doesn't lightPower or hardware faultCheck adapter; service
Asks for card or PINVerification mode changedReset verification mode for the user

02Machine not working at all?

  • Try another power adapter
  • Restart the machine
  • Check it isn't in a menu or locked by an admin
  • Check the date and time (punches look missing if wrong)
When to call a professionalMachine locked, not syncing or lost its data? Qyvea services ZKTeco attendance and access devices: resets, admin recovery for the verified owner, software setup and staff re-enrolment, on site or remotely where possible. Call 0113 301 244 or WhatsApp us.

03Frequently asked questions

Why does my fingerprint not register?

Usually a dry, dirty or worn finger, or a poor original enrolment. Re-enrol with the finger flat and centred.

Can I clean the fingerprint sensor?

Yes, gently with a soft dry cloth; avoid scratching it.

Why customers choose Qyvea

Genuine brandsManufacturer warranty on what we sell, so you are not gambling on the box.
One team, start to finishThe people who advise you also install and support it.
Fast answersWhatsApp replies usually within 30 minutes, and delivery within 24 hours in Nairobi.
Easy to buyPay by M-Pesa, bank transfer or card. Free delivery in Nairobi on orders over KES 5,000.
Risk taken off you7-day returns and exchanges on products, and a workmanship warranty on installations.
Customers say soRated 4.6/5 from 57 Google reviews.

Your next step takes one minute: send us a photo of the place on WhatsApp and we will tell you what it needs.

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