If your TCL TV keeps turning on and off repeatedly, it can be frustrating and worrisome. Before panicking, let’s explore the possible causes and solutions for this common issue with TCL TVs.

Here’s why your TCL TV turns on and off in a loop

Apart from software updates, this phenomenon can have various causes, such as residual electrical charge in the TV, issues with the “T-Link” (HDMI-CEC) feature, internal software malfunction, or a problem with the power cord.

Here’s how to fix your TCL TV turns on and off in a loop

1. Restart Your TCL TV

If you notice that your TCL TV is not functioning properly, you can try resolving the issue by restarting it.

To perform an electrical restart and fix minor issues, you have a couple of methods to choose from:

Method 1 – Using the power outlet:

  • Turn off your TV.
  • Unplug it from the power outlet and wait for about 30-40 seconds.
  • Plug it back in and turn on your TV using the remote control.

Method 2 – Using the remote control (for some recent models):

  • Press and hold the power button on your remote control for several seconds.
  • A window will appear on your screen, asking if you want to restart.
  • Select “Yes.”
  • Your TV will turn off and then turn back on.
  • The electrical reset is complete, and the issue should be resolved.

This electrical reset helps resolve minor malfunctions related to residual electricity that may have accumulated inside your TV, causing various issues.

2. Disable T-Link (HDMI-CEC)

The T-Link function, also known as HDMI-CEC, can sometimes cause disruptions in your TV.

However, in certain cases, such as frequent interruptions or failure to recognize connected devices, you may need to disable this feature.

To disable T-Link on your TCL Android TV, follow these steps:

  • Access the Settings menu on your TV by pressing the button with the gear icon on your remote control.
  • Select the System option.
  • Choose T-Link and set it to Off.

If you have a TCL TV running on Roku instead of Android, here’s how to disable T-Link:

  • Press the Home button on your remote control.
  • Use the directional buttons on your remote control to select Options and press OK.
  • Then go to Control Other Devices (CEC) > Scan for CEC devices.
  • Uncheck all the listed options to completely disable the CEC function.

3. Check the Power Cord

Unexpected turn on and turn off cycles of your TCL TV may be caused by a power supply issue.

First, you need to check the continuity of the power cord, as a cable with continuity issues can lead to unexpected power cycles.

Follow these steps to check the continuity of the power cables, extensions, or power strips:

  • Unplug the power cable from the wall outlet.
  • Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the cable. Set the multimeter to the “continuity test” mode.
  • The multimeter will emit a beep sound if the cable is functioning properly.
  • If the multimeter doesn’t emit a sound, it means the cable is severed somewhere and needs to be replaced.
  • Repeat the same procedure for all cables (power strips, extensions) between your TV and the wall outlet.

If the cable shows no discontinuity and the electrical connection is correct, you need to check if it’s not short-circuited using the multimeter:

  • Touch the multimeter probes to the prongs of the power plug. If the multimeter emits a sound (beep), it indicates a faulty cord that needs to be replaced.
  • Repeat the same procedure for extensions or power strips if necessary.

After performing these tests, replace any faulty cables, which should resolve the power on and off issues.

4. Disable Eco Mode

If you want to disable the Eco mode on your TCL TV, the steps to follow depend on the operating system of your device.

For TCL TVs running on Android, follow these instructions:

  • Press the Home button on your remote control.
  • Select “Settings” in the top right corner of the screen.
  • Click on “Preferences” and then on “Screensavers.”
  • Disable the “Put device to sleep” option by selecting it and choosing “Disabled.”

For TCL TVs running on Roku, here’s how to disable the Eco mode:

  • Press the “Home” button on your remote control.
  • Scroll down to “Settings” using the directional buttons and press OK.
  • Select “System,” then “Power,” and finally “Power Save Mode.”
  • Uncheck all the available options on the page to disable the Eco mode.

5. Disable the Timer

The timer function automatically puts your TV in standby mode after a certain period of time.

Disabling the timer can be done in the same section as disabling the Eco mode.

Check for Overheating

If your TCL TV heats up excessively during operation, it’s a cause for concern. While some heat generation is normal, excessive overheating can be a problem.

Check the following points:

  • Ensure that the ventilation openings are clean and free from dust or obstructions. If necessary, clean them with a small brush.
  • Keep your TV away from heat sources such as heaters or fireplaces.
  • Avoid placing your TV behind a window, as direct sunlight through the glass can increase the heat and cause overheating.
  • Ensure optimal ventilation around your TV.

Note that excessive overheating can accelerate the aging process and potentially damage your TV.

6. Update Your TCL TV

Software issues can cause malfunctions in your TV. It’s important to regularly update your TV’s software. If the update doesn’t occur automatically, you can perform it manually.

First, ensure that your TCL TV is connected to the internet, as updates are typically installed automatically. However, in some cases, it may be necessary to force the update.

For TCL TVs running on Android, follow these steps:

  • Open the Settings menu, then select “Device Preferences,” “About,” “System software update,” and finally “Check for system software update.”
  • Press “Check now” to search for a new update. If an update is available, it will be installed automatically.

For TCL TVs without Android, follow these steps:

  • Press the “Home” button on your remote control.
  • Go to “Settings,” “System,” and finally “System update.”
  • Press “Check now” to search for a new update. If an update is available, it will be installed automatically.

To avoid issues with firmware, it’s recommended to enable automatic software updates.

7. Reset Your TCL TV

A reset of your TCL TV can help resolve the issue. There are two methods: an electrical reset or a factory reset.

Electrical Reset: If the electrical reset method mentioned earlier didn’t solve the problem, you can try a full reset to factory settings.

For TCL TVs running on Android, follow these steps:

  • Turn on your TV and press “Home” on the remote control.
  • Select “Settings,” then “Storage & reset,” and finally “Factory data reset.”
  • Enter your TV’s PIN code (default is 1234) and press “Yes.”

For TCL TVs without Android, follow these steps with the remote control:

  • Press the Home button on the remote control.
  • Select “Settings,” then “System,” and finally “Advanced system settings.”
  • Choose “Reset” or “Factory reset” and select “Reset all” to erase all data and settings on your TV.
  • Confirm your choice.

The procedure may vary slightly depending on your TV model, but these steps should help you reset your device.

If you prefer to use a USB keyboard, connect it to the USB port on your TV and use the arrow keys, number pad, and “Enter” key to navigate through your TV’s menu.

8. Utilize Your Warranty

Like all electronic products, your TCL TV comes with a legal two-year warranty from the date of purchase.

If you experience a non-compliance issue, such as the TV turning on and off unexpectedly, you need to assert your rights with the retailer after trying all the previous steps.

TCL also provides a manufacturer’s warranty that covers your TV against defects in parts and manufacturing.

If the power on and off issue is caused by a faulty power cord, a connector on the TV, an internal component, etc., you can contact TCL for troubleshooting or replacement.

If the issue is due to non-compliance, you are entitled to have your TV repaired or replaced by the retailer without any direct cost to you.

9. Check the Motherboard Capacitors

This section, along with the next one, is intended for electronics experts, specialized TV technicians, or curious individuals willing to undertake TV disassembly (outside of warranty, of course).

Note: Opening and repairing your TV yourself while it’s still under warranty will void the warranty. Only specialized or authorized TCL technicians can repair your TV under warranty.

During this type of malfunction, you can check the capacitors on the motherboard inside your TCL TV by opening up the device:

  • Place your TV face down on a flat surface.
  • Carefully remove the back cover.
  • The motherboard and capacitors will be visible.
  • Check if the capacitors are swollen. If they are, it indicates they are faulty and need to be replaced.

Now, it’s up to you to decide whether you want to replace them yourself (if your TV is no longer under warranty) or have an expert handle it, which is strongly recommended.

To replace them yourself, you’ll need a multimeter, soldering iron, solder, desoldering braid, small pliers, wire cutters, and, of course, new capacitors with the same voltage.

IMPORTANT: Before opening or repairing your TV, UNPLUG it to avoid electrical shocks.

  • Desolder the legs of the swollen capacitor on the back of the motherboard.
  • Remove the swollen capacitor and replace it with a new one.
  • Pay attention to the polarity (check the markings on the capacitor and the motherboard).
  • Cut the legs to the appropriate length.
  • Carefully solder the legs to the back of the motherboard.
  • Put the motherboard back in place and reattach the back cover.

Test it.

Voila! You have repaired your TV, which should hopefully last for a few more years with just a few USD, patience, and some time.

10. Replace the Motherboard

This section is also intended for TV disassembly experts, just like the previous point, and the same warranty recommendations apply.

The motherboard is the main board that houses various input/output connections (SCART, HDMI ports, RCA, antenna, USB ports, etc.) of your TV. It’s essential, as it converts the electrical signal into an image.

In case of malfunctions, pixelation, flickering, or no display, it may be necessary to replace the motherboard.

IMPORTANT: TURN OFF and UNPLUG your TV to avoid electrical shocks during the repair process.

  • Carefully remove the back cover.
  • Take a photo of the motherboard in place to help with reassembly.
  • Disconnect the various components and cables.
  • Remove the motherboard by unscrewing it.
  • visually inspect the different components and soldering for any signs of damage (swollen capacitors, burn marks, loose or dry solder joints, etc.)
  • Place the new motherboard and reconnect the components using the photo you took earlier for reference.
  • Reattach and screw the back cover of your TV. (Make sure to use all the screws!)

And you’re done!

To Summarize

The power on and off issues with your TCL TV can be easily resolved by checking various points, from connections to firmware. However, in rarer cases, the problem may be internal and require technical repair. Repairing it yourself is possible, but if your TV is still under warranty, it’s recommended to have a specialized technician handle it.