Quick answer
Why are my Facebook Marketplace messages not working?
Usually it is one of four things: the app or Messenger needs updating or restarting, notifications are turned off, replies are landing in the hidden message-requests folder, or your connection dropped mid-send. Update and restart the app, check notification permissions, open Marketplace and Messenger message requests, and confirm your network. Because native Marketplace messaging and alerts can be slow or inconsistent, many buyers also run Outpost Alerts so they still see fresh listings and can reach out the moment something matches, even when the app is being flaky.
The fix checklist
| Symptom | Most likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Messages won't send | Network or app glitch | Check connection, force-close and reopen, update the app |
| Replies not showing | Message requests folder | Open Marketplace > Inbox and Messenger > Message requests |
| No notifications | Permissions off | Enable notifications for Facebook and Messenger in phone settings |
| Can't message at all | Account or listing removed | Confirm the listing is live and your account is in good standing |
Step by step
- Force-close Facebook and Messenger, then reopen them.
- Update both apps in the App Store or Play Store.
- Check message requests in both Marketplace and Messenger — replies from people you are not connected to often land there.
- Enable notifications for Facebook and Messenger in your phone settings.
- Test your connection; switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
- Try Marketplace in a browser to rule out an app-specific problem.
If the wider problem is notifications rather than messages, see Marketplace notifications not working. If listings themselves are missing, use Marketplace not showing listings.
Do not let flaky messaging cost you deals
Even with messaging working, native alerts can be too slow for fast-moving listings. Outpost Alerts keeps cloud watchlists running with keyword, price, and location filters, so you see fresh matches immediately and can message the second something good lists — instead of finding out hours later. Compare setups in the best alert apps guide.
FAQ
Why can I not send messages on Facebook Marketplace?
The most common causes are a dropped connection, an app that needs restarting or updating, or an account or listing that has been removed. Restart and update the app, check your network, and confirm the listing is still live.
Where do missing Marketplace replies go?
Often into the message-requests folder. Check Marketplace Inbox and Messenger message requests, since replies from people outside your network are filtered there.
Why am I not getting message notifications?
Notifications are usually disabled at the phone or app level. Enable notifications for Facebook and Messenger in your device settings and inside each app.
Does Marketplace messaging work in a browser?
Yes. If the app is failing, try Marketplace on a desktop or mobile browser to keep conversations going and to isolate whether the problem is app-specific.
How can I avoid missing deals when messaging is flaky?
Use a watchlist tool like Outpost Alerts that surfaces fresh listings fast, so you can reach out immediately rather than relying on inconsistent native alerts.
Sources checked
- Messenger Help Center — messages and message requests.
- Facebook Marketplace Help Center — contacting buyers and sellers.
Marketplace features, fees, and policies change. Confirm current rules in Facebook's Help Center before relying on specific details.
Never miss a fresh listing
Run cloud watchlists that surface new matches instantly, so a flaky inbox never costs you the deal, with Outpost Alerts.