Fix: TCL Smart TV Netflix Buffering, Freezing, or Black Screen Issue

It can be very frustrating if you are watching Netflix and suddenly it starts buffering or freezing on your TCL Smart TV. Some users have also reported black screen issues on their TCL Smart TVs when trying to launch Netflix. You are in the right place if you are one of those users. In this article, we’ll discuss several fixes for these issues so you can get back to your Netflix binge-watching as soon as possible. We will also answer some of your most asked questions, so keep reading.

How to Fix TCL Smart TV Netflix Buffering, Freezing, or Black Screen Issue 

If you’re experiencing buffering, freezing, or black screen issues while streaming Netflix on your TCL Smart TV, don’t worry. There are a number of fixes you can try to resolve the problem and get back to enjoying your favorite shows and movies. Here are eight fixes that you can try to fix this issue.

Fix 1: Check your Internet Connection 

One of the most common reasons for buffering, freezing, or black screens on Netflix is a weak internet connection. A weak or unreliable connection can cause problems with streaming video, so it’s important to ensure that your connection is strong and stable.

To check your internet connection, start by running a speed test. Most internet service providers offer a free speed test tool on their website, or you can use a third-party tool such as speedtest.net or fast.com. You can run this test on a smartphone or computer. When running the test, make sure that you’re connected to the same network that your TCL Smart TV is connected to.

Once you have your results, compare them to the recommended speeds for streaming video. Netflix recommends having a minimum download speed of 5 Mbps for HD streaming and 25 Mbps for streaming 4K content. If you’re not getting these speeds, try moving your router closer to your TV or restarting your router. If you are still having issues, contact your ISP (Internet Service Provider).

To restart your router, plug out the router and wait for a few seconds before plugging it back in. Once plugged back in, try connecting to the internet again, and Netflix should be working fine.

Fix 2: Restart your Smart TV

Sometimes, simply restarting your TV can solve the problem. To do this, unplug your TV from the power source, wait for 30 seconds, and plug it back in. Turn on your TV and check if the problem has been resolved.

Fix 3: Power Cycle your Smart TV

If restarting your TV doesn’t work, try a power cycle. Power cycling your device involves turning off the power, waiting a few minutes and then turning it back on again. It’s a similar concept to restarting your device but more effective.

Power cycling your Smart TV can help to reset the connection and clear any errors that may be causing the issue. Here’s how to do it:

1. Unplug your TV from the power source.
2. Wait for 30 seconds.
3. Plug it back in and turn on your TV.
4. While it’s starting up, unplug it again.
5. Wait for another 30 seconds.
6. Plug your TV back in and turn it on again. This will reset your TV’s memory and resolve any temporary issues.

Fix 4: Delete Netflix Cookies

Sometimes, cookies stored on your TV can cause issues with Netflix. To delete these cookies, go to netflix.com/clearcookies and sign into your Netflix account. That’s it. Your Netflix cookies are now deleted. Try opening Netflix on your TCL Smart TV and see if the issue persists.

Fix 5: Update the Netflix App

Outdated apps can cause problems, so it is always a good idea to have the latest version of the Netflix app installed on your TCL Smart TV. Follow these steps to update the Netflix App on your TCL Smart TV:

1. Open the Google Play Store on your TCL Smart TV.
2. Select Settings > Auto-update apps > Auto-update apps at any time. 

Once the Netflix app is updated, you should be able to use it again without any issues. If you are still facing issues, try restarting your TV once again and check if the issue persists.

Fix 6: Sign out of Netflix and Sign in Again

Signing out of Netflix and signing back in can resolve any account-related issues you may be facing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do just that.

1. Open the Netflix app on your TCL Smart TV.
2. Once you’re on the homepage, look for the profile icon at the top right corner. Click it, and a drop-down menu will appear. Select “Sign out” from the menu.
3. Once you’ve signed out, close the app and restart your device.
4. Once your device has restarted, open the Netflix app. Enter your login information and select “Sign in.”
5. Once you’ve successfully signed back in, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite Netflix shows and movies again without any issues.

You can also sign out of Netflix from your web browser. However, it is important to note that the following method will sign out your Netflix account from all devices.

1. Go to netflix.com and sign into your account.
2. Once signed in, click on your profile picture and select Account.
3. From the Settings option, select Sign out of all devices.
4. Click Sign out to confirm your action.
5. Once you are signed out, open the Netflix app on your TCL Smart TV and sign in again. 
6. Once you’ve successfully signed back in, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite Netflix shows and movies again without any issues.

Fix 7: Reinstall Netflix

If none of the above-mentioned fixes works, try uninstalling and then reinstalling the Netflix app on your TCL Smart TV. Reinstalling Netflix on your TCL Smart TV should help to resolve most buffering, freezing, or black screen issues. The process is relatively simple and only takes a few minutes. 

Once you have reinstalled the Netflix app, you may have to enter your login credentials again. Once signed in, you should be able to enjoy a smoother streaming experience without any buffering issues.

Fix 8: Contact TCL Support

If none of the above fixes works, it may be a hardware issue with your TCL Smart TV. In this case, you should contact TCL Support for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I do if my internet connection is not fast enough?

Try moving your router closer to your TV, restarting your router, or contacting your internet service provider for assistance.

What should I do if the problem persists after trying all of the fixes?

If the problem persists after trying all of the fixes, it may be a hardware issue with your TCL Smart TV. In this case, you should contact TCL Support for assistance.

Final Words 

These are the steps you can take to resolve the buffering, freezing, or black screen issues you may be facing while streaming Netflix on your TCL Smart TV. From checking your internet connection to reinstalling the Netflix app, several steps can be taken to resolve the problem. If none of the fixes work, you should contact TCL Support for assistance. Finally, if you have any further questions, let us know in the comments.