Why Is Your WordPress Menu Not Showing?
Searching “WordPress menu not showing” or “fix WordPress menu issues”? A missing menu confuses visitors, making it hard to navigate your site and driving them away. For businesses, this can mean lost leads and sales. This guide explains why menus disappear, how to fix them, and how to prevent future issues, with WebsiteTrouble.com’s expert support available.
Causes of Missing WordPress Menus
Menus can vanish due to several issues. First, theme updates or switches can reset menu settings. Second, plugin conflicts, like page builders, can hide menus. Third, custom code errors in CSS or PHP can disrupt display. Fourth, incorrect menu assignments in WordPress settings can cause mismatches. Finally, database or server issues can break navigation.
For example, updating a theme like Astra might reset your primary menu, leaving only a blank header. Or, a plugin like WP Rocket might cache an outdated menu, hiding new links. These issues can cripple a site like a law firm’s, where clients need quick access to services.
How to Fix WordPress Menu Issues
Use these steps to restore your menu. WebsiteTrouble.com’s WordPress experts can assist if you’re pressed for time.
Step 1: Check Menu Settings
In **Appearance > Menus**, ensure your menu exists and is assigned to the correct location (e.g., Primary Menu). Create a new menu if missing, adding pages, categories, or custom links. Save and test. Verify in **Appearance > Customize > Menus** that locations match your theme.
Step 2: Switch Themes
Switch to a default theme like Twenty Twenty-Five via **Appearance > Themes**. If the menu appears, your active theme is the issue. Update or contact the theme developer. Revert to your original theme and test menu settings again.
Step 3: Deactivate Plugins
Deactivate all plugins via **Plugins > Installed Plugins** or FTP. Test the menu. Reactivate plugins one by one, checking after each. If a plugin like Elementor causes the issue, update it or find an alternative.
Step 4: Inspect Custom Code
Custom CSS or PHP can hide menus. In **Appearance > Customize > Additional CSS**, look for rules like “nav { display: none; }”. Remove or edit problematic code. Check theme files (e.g., header.php) via FTP for errors. Test in a staging environment.
Step 5: Verify Server and Database
Server or database issues can break menus. Contact your hosting provider to check server status. In phpMyAdmin, repair the wp_options table, where menu settings are stored. Back up your database first.
Preventing Menu Issues
Prevent problems with these practices. First, back up your site before theme or plugin updates. Second, test menus after changes using a staging site. Third, use reliable themes and plugins. Fourth, audit CSS and PHP changes carefully. Fifth, monitor navigation with tools like Google Analytics. Finally, assign menus correctly and document settings.
For instance, a blog updating its navigation for a new category should test links and back up settings to avoid disruptions. Regular maintenance keeps your site navigable and user-friendly.
Why You Need Professional Help
Fixing menu issues involves technical tasks like code editing and database repairs, which can be risky. For business owners, a missing menu can mean lost customers during critical times. Professional support ensures quick, safe resolutions.
WebsiteTrouble.com: Your Menu Solution
WebsiteTrouble.com’s WordPress experts restore your menu fast, from settings to code fixes. Our 24/7 emergency support minimizes downtime, while our maintenance plans prevent issues with regular audits. Contact us today to keep your site navigable and thriving.