MetaTrader 5 (MT5) is one of the most popular forex and CFD trading platforms. It has powerful features such as advanced charting tools, automated trading and multi-asset support. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned trader, the tools that MT5 has are the tools you need to succeed.
But no platform is perfect, sometimes MT5 users encounter problems such as connection errors, failed trades, or frozen charts. These errors can be frustrating, but the good news is that they are usually easy to fix.
In this guide, we will explain the most common MT5 errors and their error codes. We will guide you through step-by-step solutions and we will even share tips on how to prevent these problems from happening again.
What Are MT5 Error Messages?
When something goes wrong, MT5 gives error messages or codes. At first, these messages may not make sense, but they are there, hidden inside the problem, acting as clues that describe where the issue is located.
For instance:
- "No Connection" (Error Code 10009): The problem is that your platform can’t connect to the server.
- "Common Error" (Error Code 2): There is something wrong with your trade setup.
- "Invalid Account" (Error Code 3): The problem is with your login details or server.
These messages are the first step to solving problems on MT5 and understanding them is key.
Common MT5 Errors and How to Fix Them
1. Connection Problems
Error Codes:
- 10009: No connection to the trading server.
- 3: Invalid account (log in or server issue).
What Happens: MT5 can’t connect to your broker’s server. This means you won’t get live market data, and you can’t place trades.
Why It Happens:
- Your internet connection is slow or unstable.
- You entered the wrong server details during login.
- Your firewall or antivirus is blocking MT5.
How to Fix It:
- Check Your Internet Connection: Make sure your internet is working properly and restart your router or switch to a more reliable connection.
- Verify Server Settings: On the login screen, ensure you’ve selected the correct server. This information is usually in your broker’s welcome email.
- Log Out and Back In: Sometimes, logging out and re-entering your details can refresh the connection.
- Adjust Firewall or Antivirus Settings: Add MT5 to your firewall or antivirus "safe list." If MT5 is being blocked, it won’t connect to the server.
Pro Tip: If you trade frequently, consider using a Virtual Private Server (VPS). A VPS provides a stable, high-speed connection specifically for trading. It’s especially useful for automated strategies.
2. Charts Not Updating (Price Delays)
Error Code 10006: Price updates are delayed due to server issues or connection problems.
What Happens: Your charts stop moving, and prices freeze. You can’t see the latest market data.
Why It Happens:
- Your internet connection isn’t stable.
- The broker’s server might be experiencing delays.
- MT5 is overloaded with too many open charts or indicators.
How to Fix It:
- Refresh the Chart: Right-click on the chart and select "Refresh." This forces MT5 to reload the data.
- Restart the Platform: Close and reopen MT5 to clear temporary glitches.
- Check Your Internet Connection: Make sure your connection is strong. Consider using an Ethernet cable for a more reliable connection.
- Simplify Your Charts: Too many indicators or open charts can slow MT5 down. Close unnecessary charts and remove unused indicators.
3. Missing Trading Instruments
What Happens:
You log in to MT5 but don’t see all the forex pairs, stocks, or commodities you want to trade.
Why It Happens:
- Some instruments are hidden by default in MT5.
- Your broker doesn’t offer certain trading instruments.
How to Fix It:
- Show All Instruments: In the Market Watch window, right-click and select "Show All." This will display all available instruments.
- Contact Your Broker: If an instrument is still missing, ask your broker. They might need to activate it for your account.
4. Trade Execution Problems
Error Codes:
- 2: Common Error (general trade setup issue).
- 131: Invalid volume (wrong lot size).
- 136: Market closed (trying to trade outside trading hours).
What Happens: Your trades are rejected, or you see error messages when trying to place an order.
Why It Happens:
- You don’t have enough funds in your account to cover the trade.
- You’re trying to trade outside market hours.
- Your trade settings, like lot size, are incorrect.
How to Fix It:
- Check Your Balance: Make sure you have enough money to cover the margin for your trade.
- Verify Market Hours: Each instrument has specific trading hours. Check your broker’s website for the schedule.
- Correct Trade Settings: Double-check your lot size, stop-loss, and take-profit levels. These must align with your broker’s rules.
How to Prevent Errors on MT5
To make sure that the MT5 is running properly:
Update MT5 Frequently: Updates are necessary to fix bugs and enhance the performance of the software. Always use the most recent version available.
Depend on a Good Internet Connection: Most issues are easily avoidable with a good strong and stable Internet connection.
Opt for Minimal Charts and Indicators: A large number of charts or running Expert Advisors (EAs) can reduce the speed of the MT5 platform. Only use what you need.
Save Your Settings: Save your platform settings, profiles and templates. This way if something goes wrong you can easily restore them.
When to Ask for Help
If the problem isn’t fixed, then don’t worry about it. You can get help from others though. First of all, contact your broker. They can assist with such issues as server problems or account issues. If the issue is with the MT5 platform itself, then contact the MetaTrader 5 support team. They can help with tricky technical issues. Don’t hesitate to ask them they are there to help you!
Conclusion
Like any software, MT5 is a fantastic trading platform, but it can have its hiccups. Following simple troubleshooting steps and understanding what the error codes mean is the key to fixing these errors.
You should keep your MT5 up to date, use a reliable internet connection and manage your platform correctly to avoid many problems. And if you ever get stuck? Your broker or the MT5 support is always there to help.
If you have any other questions besides ‘How to fix Common MT5 trading Error message?’ or you know other ways to solve this issue, please don’t hesitate to contact us in the comments section below.