13 Ways to Fix When the Ignition Stick Doesn't Load Correctly or Doesn't Work Right

This article covers a wide range of fixes to help you troubleshoot and fix your non-functioning Amazon Fire Stick. Instructions apply to all Amazon Fire Stick models.

Issues like Amazon Fire Stick not working, black screen without showing media, and apps not loading properly often occur due to outdated software, internet connection issues, or insufficient power supply.

A Fire Stick that won't turn on or work can also be caused by a power issue, but more commonly it's because an incorrect HDMI input is selected or the TV doesn't turn on correctly. There are multiple solutions for all the common reasons why your Fire Stick isn't working.

Here are the best solutions to some basic Fire Stick problems; we've listed them from easiest and fastest to more complex and time-consuming. We recommend completing this list of checks and repairs in the order listed below.

  1. Make sure your TV is on. Some TV models will automatically turn on when a connected HDMI device is powered on, but many still need to be turned on manually via the remote control. If the TV is turned off, the Fire Stick will not be able to perform any operations.

  2. Restart your fire stick. Press and hold "Select & Play " on the remote for 10 seconds to quickly restart your Fire Stick. Restarting can resolve many loading issues and black screen errors.

  3. Check your TV's HDMI input. Not showing the Fire Stick on the TV screen after turning it on may be due to the incorrect HDMI input being selected. It's unlikely that your TV will switch automatically. Also, make sure the cable is fully inserted.

  4. Use direct power. If possible, plug the Fire Stick directly into a wall outlet (not a TV, other device) or power it through an adapter or surge protector.

  5. Wait 10 minutes. Sometimes the Fire Stick takes a while to load or install updates. If you open the Fire Stick and it's on the logo loading screen, wait at least 10 minutes to see if the problem resolves itself.

  6. Check the Fire Stick remote's battery. Try replacing them with new ones to see if that solves the problem.

  7. Test your internet connection. The Fire Stick's inability to connect to Wi-Fi is a common cause of apps and content not loading properly. Connect to the same Wi-Fi connection with your smartphone or other smart device to see if it is working properly.

    Checking your modem's lights can provide insight into its current internet connection status.

  8. Open another application. Media streaming services are occasionally interrupted due to server issues or maintenance. If your Fire Stick can't connect to the internet when using a specific app, switch to another app to see if the problem is app-specific.

  9. Update your Fire Stick and its apps. Select Settings > My Fire TV > About > Check for Updates to make sure you have the latest versions of your Fire Stick operating system and apps installed.

  10. Clear Fire Stick cache. If your Fire Stick isn't loading content or apps properly, try clearing the streaming stick's cache quickly. This trick can also make your fire stick run faster if it feels sluggish.

  11. Delete the Fire Stick app and reinstall it. If a specific app can't connect to the internet or load content, uninstall it, restart your Fire Stick, and reinstall it.

  12. Check your Fire Stick cast settings. Casting content from a smart device or computer to the Fire Stick may require additional work. If your content doesn't load correctly when casting, double-check to make sure you're using the correct settings and application.

  13. Restore Fire Stick to factory settings. As a last resort, you can reset your Fire Stick to factory settings via Settings > My Fire TV > Reset to Factory Defaults . This process essentially restores the streaming stick to how it looked in the box.

A black screen or no image on your Fire Stick is usually caused by selecting the wrong HDMI input on your TV. If your TV displays a No Signal error message, try selecting another HDMI source via the TV remote's Input or Source button.

Another common cause is that the device lacks enough power to function properly or turn on the way it should. Ideally, it's best to attach the Fire Stick directly to the wall. Power adapters and surge protectors can affect the stability of media devices such as streaming sticks.

This problem can be frustrating, but there's usually a simple solution to it.

FAQ
  • If your Fire Stick turns on on its own, you need to disable HDMI-CEC. If your Fire Stick shuts down on its own, there may be a problem. Try a different HDMI port or a different TV. If you're still having issues, try restarting and resetting your device.

  • If your Fire Stick remote isn't working, first check the battery and then try pairing the remote with the Fire Stick again. Make sure you are close enough to the TV and clear of any obstructions. You can also use your smartphone as a remote control for the Fire Stick.

  • If the video continues to buffer, please restart the device first. If you're still having problems, you may need to boost your Wi-Fi signal.

  • If you notice a delay between sound and image, go to Settings > Display & Sound > Audio > AV Sync Adjustments . Follow the instructions to synchronize video and audio output.

  • If you can't access the Settings menu, press and hold the Back and Right buttons on the Fire Stick remote for about 10 seconds to display the reset screen. After resetting your device, your settings should be accessible.