Why Does My Samsung TV Keep Restarting On Its Own?
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Experiencing technical issues with your Samsung TV can be frustrating. But when your TV keeps restarting on its own, it can indicate a serious and possibly catastrophic hardware failure. How do you know when a cyclical restart is fixable, and what can you do about it?
All is not lost if your Samsung TV keeps restarting on its own. There are ways to diagnose the cause of this problem and work through possible solutions.
What Causes a Samsung TV to Restart on Its Own?
Samsung TVs restarting on their own is a common problem. Issues causing a Samsung TV to restart repeatedly are because:
- System errors like a missed software update
- Hardware problems such as a bad CPU or motherboard
If you’re dealing with a Samsung TV restarting on its own, you can expect that the problem will likely involve a moderate to serious hardware defect. Unfortunately, this usually requires the assistance of a technician.
Here is a summary of the potential reasons a Samsung TV will restart on its own:
- Software glitch
- Stuck boot loop
- Overheating CPU
- Damaged flat cable
- Damaged power supply
- Damaged motherboard
Software Glitch
A software glitch in a Samsung smart TV is a common cause to keep restarting on its own. Like any smart device, a Samsung TV must run the latest software to operate smoothly.
Solution: Update the Software
If your Samsung TV restarts on its own, you should first try to update the software. Follow these steps to update the software on your Samsung TV. Doing this will automatically check which version your TV is currently running on.
- Press the Menu button on your remote.
- Select Support, followed by Software Update.
- Tap Software Update and then Okay.
Stuck Boot Loop
Another reason your Samsung smart TV keeps restarting is it is stuck in a boot loop. This means it is in a constant state of rebooting, making it essentially impossible to enjoy your TV.
A failed or incomplete software update can cause this to happen. Make sure that your TV is running the latest software by following the steps in the previous section.
If you can’t complete the update, reset your TV to resolve a restarting loop issue.
Solution: Perform a Reboot
There are several ways to try and resolve a Samsung TV boot loop.
First, power cycle your Samsung TV by turning it off and unplugging it from its power source. Leave your TV unplugged for at least 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. Check to see if the boot loop issue has been resolved.
If your TV continues to restart on its own, the next step will be to perform a factory reset. Follow these steps to factory reset your Samsung smart TV:
- Go to Settings on your TV.
- For newer Samsung TVs: select “General” > “Reset” | For older Samsung TVs: “Support” > “Self-Diagnosis” > “Reset”
- Enter your PIN code (if you haven’t set one, the default is 0-0-0-0).
- Select “Reset” again
- Choose “OK” to begin the factory reset.
Overheating CPU
A Samsung smart TV’s CPU serves as its brain center and controls the TV’s functions. If the central processing unit overheats, the TV’s performance can be affected. This includes glitchy behavior like repeatedly restarting on its own.
Aside from causing a Samsung TV to restart by itself, an overheating CPU could indicate a more serious problem. This is definitely not a situation that should be ignored.
Solution: Replace the CPU
As one of the most vital components of a smart TV, if the CPU cannot perform its functions, it must replaced.
If your TV is no longer under warranty, this can result in a costly repair bill. The part is expensive, and you may need a qualified technician to replace it.
However, you should check a few things before going this route. External conditions can cause the CPU to overheat. For instance:
- Do not place your Samsung TV in an enclosed space with poor ventilation. This can cause your device to overheat.
- Check all the vents in the back of the TV and make sure they are free from dust, lint, and other debris. Clogged openings can cause your TV’s components to overheat.
- Avoid placing your TV next to heater vents and other appliances that can cause abnormal amounts of heat.
Clean out the openings using compressed air if you see dust and lint collecting in your TV’s vents.
Afterward, place an air purifier near your Samsung TV to collect the dust to prevent dust build-up.
Damaged Flat Cable
Another common cause for a cyclical restarting problem is a flat cable failure inside the TV.
A flat cable is a series of wires arranged lengthwise next to each other to form a flat, ribbon-like cable. Flat cables are highly flexible and allow for high-density connections in tight spaces.
A damaged flat cable can cause enough interference to affect the performance of your Samsung smart TV. One of the most noticeable effects is your TV restarting on its own.
Solution: Replace a Damaged Flat Cable
A damaged flat cable requires expertise to diagnose. This is because the damage is difficult to see and requires a highly-trained eye to detect. Once found, a damaged flat cable needs to be replaced by a qualified repair person.
It is also possible that rather than being damaged, a flat cable may be improperly connected. Make sure you plug the cable firmly into the connectors on both ends. (Safety tip: unplug the TV while you do this.)
Damaged Power Supply
A damaged power supply is a serious hardware issue that can cause cyclical restarting in a Samsung TV. The power supply transfers power from the wall outlet to the various electronic components in your TV.
If the power supply is damaged, it can affect how your TV operates, including restarting on its own repeatedly. Unfortunately, this problem won’t go away by itself. Some solutions require a trained technician to diagnose and repair fully.
Solution: Replace the Power Supply
Replacing a damaged power supply can cost several hundred dollars to repair. Unless you know smart TV electronics, you must take your TV to a repair shop or service center. Depending on the age of your TV, the repair may not be worth the cost.
Before deciding on repair options, you should confirm that other issues are not in play. Disconnect and reconnect all wire connections on the TV to ensure a bad connection isn’t the problem. The problem could simply be a damaged or loose power cord.
Check the following:
- Confirm that the TV’s power cable is properly connected to the back of the TV and fully plugged into the wall outlet
- Inspect the power cable for any damage, including the prongs on the plug
- Loose wiring inside the wall outlet can cause intermittent power flow. Plug your TV into a different outlet and see if that resolves the restarting issue.
If you suspect a power-related issue is causing your Samsung TV to restart on its own, consider the following:
- If the power cord appears to be damaged, replace it; just make sure you find one compatible
- If something seems to be wrong with your wall outlet, use a voltmeter to verify whether it is working
- If your TV is plugged into a power strip, check whether the surge protector has tripped or if it’s broken, replace it
- Check your circuit breaker panel to make sure that the breaker hasn’t tripped
- If more than one outlet is faulty, call an electrician
Damaged Motherboard
A damaged motherboard is potentially one of the most serious problems with a smart TV you can encounter.
The motherboard is a large circuit board that houses the major electrical components of your TV (including the CPU). It allows these components to communicate with each other. When damaged, it can cause your TV to behave abnormally, such as constantly restarting on its own.
Solution: Replace the Motherboard
A damaged motherboard will likely need to be properly diagnosed and replaced by a qualified technician. Depending on the severity of the problem, the potential replacement cost can be hundreds of dollars.
You must decide whether your TV is worth repairing or purchasing a new Samsung smart TV. As with other issues, it’s wise to eliminate other potential causes of your TV restarting on its own. These include:
- Software issues
- Power issues
- Connection (wires and cables) issues
- Overheating (poor ventilation) issues
- Sources of interference, such as other electronic or heavy equipment operating nearby
Does a Samsung TV Warranty Cover Restarting Problems?
Samsung offers a limited warranty on its televisions, covering manufacturing defects involving either materials or workmanship.
If your restarting problem occurs within the warranty period, it may be covered under warranty. However, there are certain conditions where Samsung will not cover the repair. For example:
- The TV was damaged during shipment, delivery, or installation
- The restarting issue is due to owner neglect or misuse
- Electrical problems in your home are the source of the problem
How to Turn In a Samsung TV for Warranty Work
If your Samsung TV is within the warranty period, follow these steps to contact Samsung and submit a warranty claim:
- Register your TV if you haven’t already done so. You may have registered already when you first set up your TV. There are various ways to register your Samsung TV.
- Have your Samsung TV’s model number and serial number handy.
- Go to Samsung’s Repair Services site to submit a formal repair request. You can also find a local service center and check on the status of a submitted work order.
Contact Tech Supportal
If your Samsung TV is out of warranty, all is not lost. Another great resource for troubleshooting and resolving a restarting issue is our Tech Supportal. Here, you can subscribe to our service to provide any technical support for any product anytime.
FAQ: Samsung TV Power Glitches
How long do Samsung TVs last?
With normal, everyday use, the average lifespan of a Samsung TV should be between 4 to 7 years. Under certain conditions, you can get a Samsung TV to last longer.
How long is a Samsung TV warranty?
Samsung’s standard limited warranty for TVs sold in the U.S. is 12 months, covering parts and labor.
