Istanbulkart Not Working? Common Fixes for Tourists

It’s frustrating — you’re at the metro gate or bus door, and suddenly your Istanbulkart is not working suddenly. Don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll explain the most common reasons why Istanbulkart fails and what you can do to fix it, especially if you’re a tourist with limited time.

From low balance to damaged cards, here’s everything you need to know to get moving again.

New to Istanbulkart? See the full guide: https://turkeytraveljournal.com/istanbulkart/

Check Your Balance First

The most common reason an Istanbulkart doesn't work is that it has no credit left.

How to check the balance:

• At top-up machines (before or after using).

• On metro turnstile screens after you tap.

• Using the Istanbulkart mobile app (if installed).

• Ask a metro or kiosk staff member to check it.

If your card balance is less than the required fare, it won’t work — even if it’s only 1 TL short.

 Learn how to top up here: [How to Top Up Istanbulkart – Step-by-Step for Tourists]

The Card Reader Might Be Broken

Sometimes, it’s not your card — it’s the machine!

Try the following:

• Move to another turnstile or gate.

• On buses, try the rear card reader.

• On ferries, use another entry gate or ask staff.

Card readers can stop working due to technical issues or maintenance — especially in busy stations.

Your Istanbulkart Is Damaged

If your card has been:

• Bent or cracked

• Exposed to water or heat

• Demagnetized by phones or magnets

…then it may stop working entirely.

 Solution:

• Unfortunately, damaged cards cannot be fixed.

• You’ll need to buy a new Istanbulkart.

• You cannot transfer balance from anonymous cards unless they’re registered (see below).

Your Card Was Blocked or Blacklisted

This is rare, but can happen:

• If your card was part of a system error

• If there’s suspicion of misuse (fake balance apps, etc.)

Tourists almost never face this unless they bought a card from an unreliable source.

Always buy your card from official machines or kiosks — especially at airports or metro stations.

Using One Card for Too Many People?

Yes, Istanbulkart can be shared, but there are limits.

For example:

• Only the first person gets full discount.

• Next riders may pay more, or not be allowed at all (especially during peak times).

• You can use 1 Istanbulkart up to 5 people max.

The Card Is Not Active (New Cards)

Some brand-new Istanbulkarts might not be fully activated right away.

 Solution:

• Tap the card once on a metro or tram validator to activate.

• Then top it up using a machine.

• If still not working, return to where you bought it and ask for a replacement.

Not Enough Time Between Taps

If you're trying to re-use the card too quickly (for multiple people), it may temporarily block.

Wait 30–60 seconds and try again, or move to another gate.

This helps prevent people from riding multiple times for free using one card.

What Should You Do Next?

If all else fails:

• Go to the ticket office at the metro entrance.

• Show your card and ask them to check or replace it.

• If they can’t fix it, you’ll have to buy a new card.

Cost  130 TL for a new card, plus your top-up.

If you're at Istanbul Airport and your card doesn't work right after buying, just return to the same Havaist desk or metro machine where you got it — they’ll usually replace it if it’s brand new.

Final Tips

• Always check your balance before using public transport.

• Keep a little extra credit on your card in case of emergencies.

• If you're staying longer, consider registering your card for balance protection.

• Don't buy cards from street vendors — they might be faulty or blocked.

You can also take the Havaist shuttle — here’s the guide.
If you prefer the metro, see our Istanbul Airport Metro tutorial.
Don’t forget, you’ll need an Istanbulkart to ride the metro or bus.