If your TCL Google TV displays the Android Recovery screen, remains on the TCL or Google TV logo, or restarts repeatedly, the TV may be experiencing a startup or software issue.
Follow the steps below in order. Menu options, button locations, and recovery procedures may vary by model and software version.
Before You Begin
A factory reset erases information saved on the TV, including:
- Google accounts and profiles
- Downloaded apps and app sign-ins
- Wi-Fi information
- Picture and sound adjustments
- Other customized settings
You will need to complete the Google TV setup process again after the reset.
Do not select Apply update from USB unless TCL Support has provided software specifically for your exact TV model. Installing incompatible software may prevent the TV from operating correctly.
Step 1: Check the Physical TV Button
Locate the physical Power button on the bottom, back, or side of the TV.
- Make sure the button is not stuck or being held down.
- Make sure the TV is not lying flat on its screen or back.
- Confirm that the feet or stand are installed correctly.
- If the TV is wall-mounted, make sure nothing is pressing against its buttons.
Why this matters: A button that is continuously pressed may cause the TV to enter recovery mode or restart unexpectedly.
Step 2: Restart the TV
- Unplug the TV from the electrical outlet.
- Wait at least 60 seconds.
- Plug the TV directly into a working wall outlet.
- Turn the TV back on.
Temporarily avoid using a power strip, surge protector, or extension cord while troubleshooting.
Why this matters: Disconnecting power clears a temporary startup problem, while using a wall outlet helps rule out an issue with an external power accessory.
If the TV starts normally, no further troubleshooting is needed. If the recovery screen returns or the TV remains on the logo, continue below.
Step 3: Select Reboot System Now
If the recovery screen is displayed:
- Highlight Reboot system now.
- Select it using the remote or the physical buttons on the TV.
- Allow the TV several minutes to restart.
Depending on the model, the remote may not work in recovery mode. You may need to use the TV’s Volume buttons to move through the menu and the Power button to select an option.
Why this matters: Rebooting attempts to start the TV normally without deleting your apps, accounts, or settings.
If the TV returns to recovery mode or remains stuck on the logo, continue to the factory-reset section.
Step 4: Access Recovery Mode if It Does Not Appear
If the TV is stuck on the logo but the recovery menu is not displayed:
- Unplug the TV from power.
- Locate the physical Power button on the TV.
- Press and hold the Power button.
- While continuing to hold the button, plug the TV back into power.
- Release the button when the recovery screen appears.
Why this matters: The physical button can start recovery mode without relying on the TV’s normal software or remote connection.
Recovery procedures vary by model. If the menu does not appear, do not repeatedly try unverified button combinations. Contact TCL Support for the correct procedure for your model.
Step 5: Perform a Factory Reset
Use a factory reset only if Reboot system now did not resolve the problem.
- From the recovery menu, select Wipe data/factory reset.
- Select Yes or Factory data reset to confirm.
- Wait for the reset to finish.
- Select Reboot system now if the TV does not restart automatically.
- Complete the Google TV setup process.
Do not unplug the TV while the reset is running.
Why this matters: A factory reset removes saved data that may be damaged or preventing Google TV from starting. Interrupting the reset could cause additional software problems.
After the TV Starts Normally
Once setup is complete, check for available software updates:
- Open Settings.
- Select System.
- Select About.
- Select System update.
Why this matters: Installing the latest software can provide fixes that help prevent the startup problem from returning.
If You Still Need Help
Contact TCL Support if:
- Recovery mode does not appear.
- The TV continues returning to the recovery screen.
- The factory reset does not finish.
- The TV remains on the TCL or Google TV logo.
- An error message appears during startup.
Have the TV’s model number, serial number, a photo of the screen, and a description of the troubleshooting already completed available when contacting support.
Recovery mode can often restore normal operation after a temporary software or startup problem. If restarting and factory-resetting the TV do not resolve the issue, TCL Support can help determine the correct next step for your specific model.