T-Mobile is a popular choice among the telecommunication services in North America. If you’re a T-Mobile user, you’re probably already familiar with all the perks and features that the application has to offer.
It is possible to encounter errors on T-Mobile that can dampen the quality of your experience. If you’ve ever come across error codes 38, 42 or 9230, you’re probably already on this guide for a reason.

We’ll show you what to do if you encounter any of these three codes. After following the provisions of the guide, you’ll never have an unsolvable problem with SMS error codes on T-Mobile.
On a normal day, it’s expected that your T-Mobile sim works as expected without any network interruptions or delays. Check out the steps below on how to resolve error code 38, 42 or 9230 on T-Mobile.
How to Troubleshoot Issues and Fix T-Mobile Error Code 38
If you’re currently encountering error code 38 as a T-Mobile user, it’s likely that you may be dealing with SMS problem. ‘Error 38: Unable to send SMS’ can be resolved in multiple ways, so try them out and see if they stick for you.
Check the Input Code
You can actually type in a specific set of numbers to your dialer in order to fix the issue. It’s not a guaranteed fix, but it’s still a solution that has worked for many users struggling with SMS errors.
- In your phone’s dialer, type in the following *#*#4636#*#* and you will be met with a pop-up menu.
- Choose the phone option to see the SMSC block.
- Insert your cellular company’s SMSC number then click on update.
- Get the SMSC number from the T-Mobile service center.
Remove Third-Party Messaging Applications on your Device
If you’re a fan of applications like Truecaller, you might want to try abandoning it for a while due to this error code. It’s possible that the SMSC (Short Message Service Center) is generating this error because it doesn’t have a default messaging app to relay information to.
Solutions to Resolve T-Mobile Error Code 42

Another SMS error, this one is one that prevents your phone carrier from sending SMS messages.
Turn On and Turn Off Airplane Mode
A simple restart may be the unlikely solution to fix this issue with your T-Mobile SIM.
- Go to your navigation bar and look for the Airplane icon.
- Tap it to turn on Airplane mode.
- Wait for at least 10 seconds.
- Turn off Airplane mode.
- See if the issue persists by attempting to send an SMS message.
How to Fix T-Mobile SMS Error Code 9230

Make sure to check credit sufficiency on T-Mobile. While this error can be frustrating, you need to check certain areas to fully ensure that you are not responsible for the error.
Simply open your T-Mobile app and see if you have enough credit on your device to use the SMS services.
T-Mobile has a solid customer service program, but they can’t account for every possible error. Thanks to our guide, you’ll be in a better position to tackle any future errors that pop up while using this carrier.