Two-way radios often do more work than people realize. Day after day, they keep crews talking clearly—whether on a busy job site, inside a manufacturing plant, out on patrol, or during a public event. With that kind of use, it’s natural for parts to wear down, and sooner or later, they need some professional care to stay reliable.
Maybe you’ve already run into little problems—static that cuts into conversations, a battery that seems to die too fast, or signals fading where they once came in strong. If these issues are ignored, they can develop into significant setbacks that hinder progress and even compromise safety.
That’s why it pays to know the warning signs early. If you’ve been asking yourself, “What are the signs that I should get my two-way radios serviced?” the answer may be closer than you think. Let’s break down the most common signs you should get your two-way radios serviced.
Common Signs It’s Time to Get Your Radios Serviced
Even the most rugged two-way radios eventually show wear and tear. While they’re built for demanding environments, minor issues can accumulate over time and severely impact performance. Knowing what to look for helps you catch issues early and keep your team connected. Below are some of the most common signs that it may be time to get a little two-way radio service.
Static or Distorted Audio
A common red flag is sound that just doesn’t come through right. Maybe voices are harder to make out, the audio is fuzzy, or static cuts in and out. Those problems can stem from worn speakers, a microphone that’s starting to fail, or something more serious within the radio. Since clear audio keeps teams safe and efficient, it’s worth having some certified two-way radio service performed on the unit before the issue gets worse.
Reduced Battery Life
Nothing slows a shift down like a battery that dies too quickly. All batteries wear out eventually, but if yours suddenly drains faster than usual, something could be wrong. Swapping in a fresh battery might help, but if the problem persists, the charger or internal components may require some qualified two-way radio service. On the job, you can’t afford a battery that can’t keep up.
Frequent Signal Dropouts
Do you notice your radios dropping out in spots that used to be fine? That’s a sign something’s off. It could be the antenna, the internal transmitter, or just interference from the environment. Getting them serviced at a certified two-way radio service facility can restore the full range and keep your team communicating when it really matters.
Buttons or Knobs That Don’t Respond
Two-way radios are designed for rugged use, but constant handling eventually wears down buttons, knobs, and keypads. When volume controls stop working correctly or push-to-talk buttons stick, it’s more than an annoyance—it can prevent clear communication in high-pressure moments. Servicing the unit restores these functions before they fail.
Overheating During Use
If your radio gets hotter than usual, something might be wrong inside. Overheating is not an issue when a two-way radio is properly working. Overheating will slow it down and cause it to wear out faster. An experienced two-way radio service technician can inspect the battery, circuits, or other components to identify the issue.
Physical Damage or Wear
Cracked housings, loose belt clips, or damaged antennas might seem cosmetic, but they often lead to more serious issues. Water or dust intrusion through even the smallest of cracks can damage sensitive internal components. Professional repair can replace these parts before damage spreads.
Unusual Noises or Feedback
If your radio starts making strange sounds—like buzzing, humming, or high-pitched squeals—it’s a sign something isn’t right. It could be a grounding problem or a worn internal part. Having it checked and repaired, if necessary, at a certified repair center keeps the radio working reliably and prevents it from becoming a distraction on the job.
Why Regular Servicing Matters
Radios aren’t just tools—they are investments. They keep your team safe and ensure your operations run smoothly. Taking care of them before problems grow can save you both time and money. When you use regular checkups at an approved two-way radio service facility, you are helping to keep your two-way radios optimized and reliable.
Partner With SJM Industrial: Professionals That You Can Trust
Radios keep your team connected, and every call matters. SJM Industrial Radio can take care of repairs, maintenance, and servicing for radios in all kinds of workplaces. From construction sites to factories, our technicians help make sure your equipment works when it’s needed most.
For more than 30 years, SJM Industrial has been serving the Los Angeles area with expert two-way radio support, maintenance, and repair. Our certified Motorola technicians are trained to identify and resolve issues quickly, whether it’s an individual radio or a complete system. Every repair is backed by professional service and full Motorola warranty coverage, ensuring your equipment is restored to peak performance with minimal downtime.
Even after the warranty period ends, we make radio servicing affordable and straightforward. With flat-rate repair options, fast turnaround times, and flexible drop-off or shipping arrangements, getting your equipment fixed has never been easier. Just complete our repair request form and let our team handle the rest—so your radios are back in service and ready for the job.
Download Our Repair Request Form