It is very annoying when Facebook Marketplace is not working or showing items to potential buyers. But there are ways to fix the error.
In most cases, the issue will be on your side -factors such as a poor internet connection, accumulation of cache, and an outdated app are the most common causes. But they aren’t the only ones.
Common reasons why Facebook Marketplace is not working
If you have encountered errors such as Facebook Marketplace not loading on Android or iPhone, not showing all pictures, or only loading a few items, here are the reasons why.
1. Poor internet connection or router
Data bundles or a router with a weak signal can affect how the Facebook Marketplace works.
In fact, poor network connectivity is the main cause of Facebook Marketplace not working. It can also lead to the app not loading items or not showing all pictures. Another common issue is the “unexpected error on Facebook Marketplace” message.
So, ensure to use a high-speed internet connection or reliable Wi-Fi in order to access the Marketplace without interruptions.
With a good internet connection, all images load instantly and correctly.
2. Technical glitches from Facebook’s side
Due to rapid changes in technology, Facebook is constantly upgrading their systems.
This can affect the functionality of Facebook Marketplace, leading to problems like items not loading. You may also be unable to view products or experience errors when sending messages to customers.
Since Facebook’s technical glitches are temporary, the best way to get around them is to give Facebook some time to resolve the problem.
Meanwhile, check on Facebook’s official social media accounts like Twitter for any updates.
3. The Facebook account is relatively new
If you are a new Facebook user, you are more like to experience challenges accessing the Marketplace.
As a measure of keeping off scammers, Facebook requires their users’ accounts to be verified before they can access the Marketplace platform.
The only way to resolve this issue is to use your Facebook account regularly for some time.
Also, ensure you abide by Facebook policies and that the account has not been banned for violating any rules.
4. Facebook users who are under 18 years
Facebook restricts users whose accounts indicate they are under 18 from accessing the Marketplace. This is to prevent instances where scammers can take advantage of minors.
You will need to wait until your account shows you are over 18 years to be able to use Facebook Marketplace. Otherwise, you’ll always get the “marketplace isn’t available to you” error.
5. Using an outdated version of the Facebook app
Device incompatibility issues may arise when you use an old version of the Facebook app or an unsupported Operating System.
Every time Facebook releases a new app they incorporate enhanced features such as fixing bugs and enhancing performance.
To have a seamless operation, always ensure that the Facebook app you are using is updated to the latest version.
To update the Facebook app, just go to Google Play Store if you are using Android or App Store if you are using iPhone and update it from there.
Also, you can try uninstalling the Facebook app and reinstalling it again, then log in to see if the problem was resolved.
6. Low storage space due to cache and data build-up
Facebook and other apps store cache and cookies data on your phone storage.
If this data is left to accumulate, it can take up all the space on your phone causing Facebook Marketplace to load slowly, or not show all pictures.
To ensure smooth operation, clear both the cache and cookies of your Facebook app regularly as follows.
- Launch the Facebook app
- Tap Settings
- Tap on Account Settings > Browser.
- Select the Clear Data icon to finish the process.
It is advisable you restart your phone or switch it off and then on, to allow the changes to take place. Then you can in to see if the issue was resolved.
7. Failure to allow location settings
In order for Facebook Marketplace to display relevant products in your location, it requires the location feature on your phone to be enabled.
So, not granting Facebook permission to access your location or this feature is disabled in your phone can affect the functionality of the Marketplace.
To rectify this issue check location accessibility both for your phone and Facebook app, and turn it on. For both Android and iPhone:
- Launch the Settings app
- Go to Settings and Privacy
- Tap Location
- Tap Facebook
- Select Always or While Using the App.
Facebook Marketplace is currently available in 70 countries worldwide. So, ensure your country is correctly set and Facebook Marketplace is accessible in your region.