Nexus One "error searching for networks" messsage

[andrewcorser]

I have had a N1 for 21 months, running mostly problem-free with Vodafone in UK. Phone currently running Android 2.3.4 (System updates says it's up to date). The phone has started giving an error when it is searching for a signal on the (rather variable) mobile networks in rural Cornwall: whether I am in an area that normally has a signal or not, the signal icon shows, but in white (normally green when registered on a network) and when I do a search for available networks (through settings) i get an error message saying something like "error searching for networks".

If I restart the phone (which takes several minutes) this does not always clear the error. Taking out the battery seems to be more successful.

Do I need to do a factory reset? If so, is there any way I can save my settings and downloaded apps on my SD card? And how do I do a factory reset?

Many thanks!

Andrew Corser

[rugmankc]

i have been rooted a long time--so hard to remember, but factory reset is in recovery and also an option somewhere under settings

did you pull sim card or contact your carrier

try MyBackUp Pro from Market, has free trial

copy your sdcard contents to pc

[andrewcorser]

Thanks Rugmankc.

I wonder if it is related to the SIM card: it was dislodged when I last took the battery out to reset the phone, and when I took it out (for the first time since I put it in 21 months ago) it looked rather dented on each contact: do SIM cards wear out, so to speak?

[rugmankc]

wouldn't hurt to try a new one