Summary: Your MT4 EA is attached but not trading. This guide covers the four most common causes: AutoTrading button off, DLL import disabled, another EA on chart, or demo restrictions.
Step 1: Check the AutoTrading Button in MT4
Look at the top toolbar of MT4. Find the “AutoTrading” button (green play icon or a face icon). If it is red or crossed out, click it once to enable. The icon should become green or solid. Screenshot: toolbar with AutoTrading button highlighted before and after.
Step 2: Verify EA Settings in Options
Press Ctrl+O to open Options. Go to the “Expert Advisors” tab. Make sure these boxes are checked: “Allow automated trading” and “Allow DLL imports”. Uncheck “Confirm DLL function calls” only if you trust the EA. Click OK. Screenshot: Expert Advisors tab with correct settings.
Step 3: Remove Other EAs from the Same Chart
Only one EA can run per chart. Right-click on the chart → “Expert Advisors” → “Remove”. Then re-attach your desired EA by dragging it from the Navigator window. Screenshot: right-click menu showing Remove option.
Step 4: Check for Demo Account Restrictions
Some broker demo accounts disable EA trading. Contact your broker or open a new demo from a broker that allows EAs. Alternatively, test the EA on a real account (use very small lot size). Screenshot: broker’s account settings page.
Step 5: Restart MT4 and Re-attach
Close MT4 completely. Open it again. Drag the EA from Navigator onto the chart. The face icon in the top right corner of the chart should be smiling (green or no cross). Screenshot: chart corner with smiling EA face.
Reference: MetaQuotes Community Forum – Expert Advisor Not Running Solutions.