October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsSlow PC?RecommendedPC slow today? Run a repair scan before it gets worseResolve common Windows issues and optimize system performance.Scan NowOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
Bettesworth Construction
electronics safety

How to Fix a TV with Clicking Noise: A Step-by-Step Guide

A single click during startup or shutdown may be normal. Repeated clicking with a black screen or failed startup requires safe external troubleshooting and possibly authorized service.

By Bettesworth Construction Team 7 min read
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

A single click when a TV turns on or off may be normal relay operation. Repeated clicking—especially with a black screen, failed startup, rebooting, a blinking standby light, unusual heat, or an electrical smell—is more concerning. Start with safe external checks: identify the clicking pattern, test the TV’s physical Power button and wall outlet, disconnect every external device, and determine whether the TV is actually on. Do not open the television.

First, identify the clicking sound

Sound pattern Timing Other symptoms Initial interpretation
One click At power-on or power-off TV works normally Usually normal relay operation
One or two clicks Shortly after shutdown or during standby TV otherwise works normally May be model-specific standby behavior
Occasional tick or pop During warm-up or cool-down Picture and sound remain normal May be cabinet or thermal-expansion noise
Repeated clicking Every few seconds or continuously TV will not start, reboots, or stays black Possible startup or power fault
Clicking with buzzing, arcing, smoke, heat, or burning odor Any time Electrical warning signs Potentially unsafe; unplug immediately

The sound’s timing and accompanying symptoms matter more than the word “clicking” alone. A click does not prove that a particular capacitor, relay, power board, or LED strip has failed.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

When a clicking TV is normal

A relay is an electrically controlled switch. Its mechanical movement can produce an audible click as the television changes power state. Sony describes a delayed post-shutdown click as relay switching during an automated process on applicable models. Samsung likewise says one or two clicks during power-on or power-off can be normal.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Treat a single click as normal only when the TV continues operating correctly, the sound occurs during a predictable power transition, and the model’s own manual or support page does not identify it as a problem. A new, increasingly frequent, or repetitive sound should be investigated.

#1 Best Overall
STREBITO Precision Screwdriver Set 64-piece with Torx, Triwing, Gamebit
  • 64-in-1 Precision Screwdriver Set: This small screwdriver set includes 48 bits (Phillips, Flathead, Torx, Torx security, Triwing, Pentalobe, Hex, Triangle, U-type, Square, SIM, MID, OVAL, Gamebit, Nut driver). It's a complete electronics repair kit that has been professionally designed to repair computers, PC, laptops, Macbooks, tablet, phones, PS4 PS5, XBOX, Switch, eyeglasses, drone, watches, Ring doorbells and more
  • Ergonomic & Magnetic Design: The super smooth swivel cap on the top of the handle makes it easier to rotate screws with less effort. This mini screwdriver features an ergonomic non-slip design and rubberized handle that provides a comfortable grip and precise control. The built-in strong magnet ensures magnetic bit holder transmits magnetism through the screwdriver tip to help you with tiny screws
  • Practical Accessories: Our electronics tool kit comes with 8 types of 15 essential accessories. Magnetizer can enhance the magnetism of the screwdriver tip, pointed tweezers make it easy to handle screws and tiny components, spudger and hook tool is effective for connecting/disconnecting components, scraping off adhesives, suction cup, pry tools, opening picks and brush to help open and clean your device
  • Organize & Portable Storage: All screwdriver bits are stored in rubber bit holder which marked with type and size for fast recognizing. The rubber bit holder can be fixed on the shelf of the sturdy plastic case, also can be removed for easy access, making it more convenient for you to perform repairs. The case provides secure protection and organized storage, while being lightweight and portable for easy transportation
  • Premium Quality & Warranty: STREBITO manufactures premium quality, pro-grade screwdriver set. The precision bits are CNC machined to be precise, made of 60HRC Chromium-vanadium steel which is resist abrasion, oxidation and corrosion. This micro screwdriver set is covered by our lifetime warranty. If you have any issues with the quality or usage, simply contact customer service for troubleshooting help

Safety warning: unplug the TV immediately when necessary

Stop testing and unplug the television if you notice smoke, sparks, a burning smell, liquid intrusion, visible damage, excessive heat, a sharp electrical buzzing or arcing sound, or a damaged power cord. Keep it disconnected and contact the manufacturer or an authorized service provider. Do not continue pressing Power and do not open the enclosure.

TCL lists unusual clicking or buzzing, smoke, burning smell, excessive heat, repeated immediate shutdown, and continuous standby-light flashing as reasons to contact support. A Samsung safety manual also advises unplugging the set and contacting authorized service when unusual sounds or smells occur.

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Record the symptom

Before changing connections, note whether the click occurs during startup, shutdown, or while idle; whether it happens once or repeatedly; the interval between clicks; and whether the standby light changes. Also note any startup logo, brief screen flash, audio, rebooting, or immediate shutdown. Record the exact model number. A short recording can help support staff identify the behavior.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

2. Try the TV’s physical Power button

  1. Find the physical button, commonly underneath, on the rear, or along the side.
  2. Press it once.
  3. Watch the standby light and screen, and listen for startup audio.

If the TV starts with its physical button, investigate the remote first: reseat or replace its batteries, check its signal path, and confirm wireless pairing if the remote uses Bluetooth or another wireless connection. Button locations and behavior vary by model.

3. Test the outlet and power connection

  1. Unplug the television.
  2. Test the wall outlet with a known-working device.
  3. Inspect the cord externally for cuts, crushed sections, looseness, or heat damage.
  4. Reconnect the cord securely.
  5. For diagnosis, connect the TV directly to the wall rather than through a power strip, extension cord, adapter, or surge protector.

This direct-wall connection is a diagnostic step; it does not mean every surge protector is defective or that one can repair a TV.

Rank #2
Sale
STREBITO Electronics Precision Screwdriver Sets 142-Piece with 120 Bits
  • 【Wide Application】This precision screwdriver set has 120 bits, complete with every driver bit you’ll need to tackle any repair or DIY project. In addition, this repair kit has 22 practical accessories, such as magnetizer, magnetic mat, ESD tweezers, suction cup, spudger, cleaning brush, etc. Whether you're a professional or a amateur, this toolkit has what you need to repair all cell phone, computer, laptops, SSD, iPad, game consoles, tablets, glasses, HVAC, sewing machine, etc
  • 【Humanized Design】This electronic screwdriver set has been professionally designed to maximize your repair capabilities. The screwdriver features a particle grip and rubberized, ergonomic handle with swivel top, provides a comfort grip and smoothly spinning. Magnetic bit holder transmits magnetism through the screwdriver bit, helping you handle tiny screws. And flexible extension shaft is useful for removing screw in tight spots
  • 【Magnetic Design】This professional tool set has 2 magnetic tools, help to save your energy and time. The 5.7*3.3" magnetic project mat can keep all tiny screws and parts organized, prevent from losing and messing up, make your repair work more efficient. Magnetizer demagnetizer tool helps strengthen the magnetism of the screwdriver tips to grab screws, or weaken it to avoid damage to your sensitive electronics
  • 【Organize & Portable】All screwdriver bits are stored in rubber bit holder which marked with type and size for fast recognizing. And the repair tools are held in a tear-resistant and shock-proof oxford bag, offering a whole protection and organized storage, no more worry about losing anything. The tool bag with nylon strap is light and handy, easy to carry out, or placed in the home, office, car, drawer and other places
  • 【Quality First】The precision bits are made of 60HRC Chromium-vanadium steel which is resist abrasion, oxidation and corrosion, sturdy and durable, ensure long time use. This computer tool kit is covered by our lifetime warranty. If you have any issues with the quality or usage, please don't hesitate to contact us

4. Perform a complete power cycle

For TCL models covered by its published guidance:

  1. Unplug the TV from the wall for at least 60 seconds.
  2. While it is unplugged, hold the TV’s physical Power button for approximately 15 seconds, if it has one.
  3. Release the button.
  4. Plug the TV directly into a working wall outlet.
  5. Try the physical Power button first, then the remote.

These exact intervals come from TCL’s troubleshooting instructions and are not universal requirements for every brand.

5. Disconnect every external device

Unplug the TV from power, then remove all HDMI devices, USB drives, cable or satellite boxes, game consoles, streaming devices, soundbars, AV receivers, HDMI switches, splitters, antennas, and other accessories. Leave only the television’s power cord connected. Plug it directly into the wall and try starting it with the physical button.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

If the TV works, reconnect devices one at a time and test after each connection. An accessory, cable, or HDMI-control command can interfere with startup or cause unexpected power behavior.

6. Determine whether the TV is actually on

A black screen does not necessarily mean the television has no power. Check for:

  • A standby light that changes or flashes when Power is pressed.
  • A brief screen flash or startup logo.
  • Startup sound or normal audio.
  • A response to Home, Settings, or Menu.

TCL identifies these lights and sounds as signs that a TV may be receiving power, even when there is no visible picture.

Rank #3
JOREST 59Pcs Small Precision Screwdriver Set with Torx T5 T6, Mini Tool Kit
  • 【59 in 1 Precision Screwdriver Set】Small screwdriver set contains 44 screwdriver bits, Phillips PH000,PH00,PH0,PH1,PH2; Flathead -1.0, -1.5 -2.0,-3.0; Torx T1 T2 T3 T4 T5, Torx security TR6 TR7 TR8 TR9 TR10 TR15 TR20; Triwing Y0.6, Y1.5. Y2.3, Y3.0; Pentalobe P2(0.8) P5(1.2); Triangle 2.3; U-type U2.6; H-type: H0.9, H1.3, H1.5, H2.0, H2.5, H3.0; MID-type: MID; Sleeve: M2.5, M3.0, M3.5, M4.0, M4.5, Cross 2.0, G3.8, G4.5
  • 【Unique Handle Design】Ergonomic design handle, more energy-saving operation, batch head built-in strong magnet, easy to adsorb the batch head. The screwdriver bit is made of high quality CRV steel, which is wear-resistant and hard.
  • 【Multi-Functional Accessories】Mini Tool kit contains 15 accessories for a variety of repair needs, including a magnetic plus or minus area to increase or decrease the magnetism of the bit, a long pry bar, a scimitar shaped pry bar, four triangular pry blades, three double-ended pry bars, tweezers, a black cleaning brush, a SIM card thimble, and a suction cup. Note: The package is made of PP material without carton and user manual.
  • 【Practical Storage Box】Compartments are categorized for placement, each CRV precision bit is marked with a model number for easy identification, neatly dispensed for easy storage and searching. The box is sturdy and durable with strong clasps that protect each accessory well. The bits are mini (long 28mm, diameter 3.98mm) for precision work, not suitable for large screws.
  • 【Wide Scope of Application】Suitable for iPhone/Samsung/Huawei and other cell phones; Mini/Air/Pro and Huawei/Honor and other laptops; Macbook/Air/Pro; Kindle/Kindle Fire; Ring Video Doorbell/ Video Doorbell 2/Pro/Elite; PS4/PS5/XOBX game console controllers and consoles, and PC laptops , watches, glasses, jewelry, toys, flight models, drones, cameras, RC cars, and some small appliances like coffee makers.

7. Troubleshoot a missing picture

If the TV responds but the screen remains black:

  1. Press Home, Settings, or Menu. If a menu appears, the display is working at least partially.
  2. Press Input or Source and select the correct HDMI, Live TV, or Antenna input.
  3. Try another HDMI input and another source, app, channel, or video.
  4. Reseat the HDMI cable, try a different cable, and connect the source directly to the TV instead of through a splitter or adapter.

Use TCL’s picture and sound guidance for the model-specific version of these checks. Audio with no picture may indicate an input, display, or backlight problem rather than a no-power condition.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

8. Check playback-only or software-related clicking

If the noise occurs only while watching content, play a different video, try another app or input, replace the cable if applicable, and check for a software update. A factory reset should be a late step because it erases accounts, apps, network settings, picture settings, and preferences. In one TCL software family, the published paths are Settings → System → About → System Update → Network Update and, for a reset, Settings → System → About → Reset → Factory Reset. Menus differ by brand, model, platform, and software version.

TCL’s playback-noise guidance places changing the video and cable and checking for updates before a factory reset.

What the result means

Result What it suggests Next action
One click and normal operation Likely normal relay or cabinet behavior Check the model manual; monitor for changes
TV works only with the physical button Remote batteries, signal path, or pairing issue Test or replace the remote batteries and pairing
Works after removing devices External device, cable, or HDMI-control interaction Reconnect equipment one at a time
Sound works but screen stays black Possible input, display, or backlight issue Test menus, sources, ports, and cables; seek service if unchanged
Repeated clicks with no startup Possible internal startup or power fault After external checks, arrange authorized service
Clicking with smoke, sparks, odor, heat, or damage Potential electrical hazard Unplug immediately and do not use the TV

Can you repair the relay or power board yourself?

For ordinary TV owners, opening the set is not recommended. Repeated clicking may involve the power path, control circuitry, display system, or an external-device interaction, and the sound alone cannot identify the failed component. Component-level diagnosis requires model-specific documentation and electrical testing. The enclosure can contain hazardous voltages even when the TV is unplugged, so do not remove the back cover to inspect capacitors, relays, boards, or LED strips.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

When to contact a technician or manufacturer

Arrange authorized service when repeated clicking continues after the direct-wall power test, power cycle, and complete external-device isolation; when the TV repeatedly shuts down or reboots; when the standby light flashes continuously; or when audio remains but picture troubleshooting does not restore the display.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #4
GuuYebe Television Replacement Parts Tools Kit, Pack of 3 Repair tool
  • GuuYebe Television Replacement Parts Tools Kit Applications: TV Repair Tools help to repair the LED backlight strip must-have tools for opening the TV and moving the screen to keep safety and protect the TV. Pry Tools help to open the TV panel or other parts, Heavy Duty Suction Cup helps to move the screen to protect screen safely and Avoid moving the screen with bare hands and causing it to slip and damage the screen, Led TV Backlight Tester helps to test each led bars or led strips is work.
  • Suction cup Application: vacuum suction cups work on any clean, non-porous surface. It can move smooth flat objects, Such as an LCD LED TV Screen Panel or Mirror, Window Shower Glass, Granite Tiles, and Car windshields. vacuum plate puller suitable for fixing cracked laminate floors or home garages. Also, the Dent Repair Puller suction cup helps remove car dents, the car dent puller just fixes the flat surface on your car and the dent repair puller is only for the flat surface.
  • Pry Tools Application: GuuYebe Pry Tools kit is designed for all models of TVs screens cars laptops door automotive electronics devices cell Phone boats repair and installer and trimming jobs with a variety of shapes and sizes. The spudger is easy to hold in hand and has access to some hard-to-reach spaces and crevices. Help to easier Open tv back panel
  • LED Tester Capacity: With the help of Test Light tools to get quickly to know the TV LED backlight strip Bars or LED light Beads issue, the Light Tester check LED TV backlight strips or each bead or Led light bulb situation, electric testers to check for power and High brightness for Easy Replacement Television Parts or Other maintain. Safety and Save Time and Money.
  • 24 X 7 After-Sales Service: Our team Provides 7 X 24 Online Service for our Customers, If you have any issues, we will provide online Tools kit installation services for you privately, Meanwhile Tools kits Provides a warranty for 1 Year more. if you get any issues with the Tools kit, we provide a free return by Amazon service. our Slogan is to let every customer become our loyal brand Customer.

Have the model and serial number ready. Tell support when the clicking occurs, how often it repeats, what the standby light does, whether there is sound or a brief picture, and which steps you have completed. This is more useful than simply reporting that the television “makes a clicking noise.”

Repair or replace the TV?

Do not replace the television before testing the outlet, remote, power connection, HDMI equipment, cables, and physical Power button. Replacement may make sense when the TV is out of warranty, an internal fault is confirmed, parts are unavailable, labor approaches the value of the set, or the panel has additional damage such as lines, severe dimming, or physical cracks.

Request a reliable diagnosis and repair quote before deciding. There is no universal repair-price threshold: the sensible choice depends on the TV’s age, size, warranty coverage, parts availability, condition, and replacement cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my TV click once when I turn it on?

A single click during startup may be the normal mechanical sound of a relay changing state, particularly when the TV otherwise works normally. Confirm the behavior in the model-specific manual or support page.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Why does my TV click after I turn it off?

Some models make a delayed click during an automated standby or shutdown process. Sony documents this behavior for applicable models, but it should not be generalized to every television.

Best Value
Kaisi Professional Electronics Opening Pry Tool Repair Kit Metal Spudger
  • Kaisi 20 pcs opening pry tools kit for smart phone,laptop,computer tablet,electronics, apple watch, iPad, iPod, Macbook, computer, LCD screen, battery and more disassembly and repair
  • Professional grade stainless steel construction spudger tool kit ensures repeated use
  • Includes 7 plastic nylon pry tools and 2 steel pry tools, two ESD tweezers
  • Includes 1 protective film tools and three screwdriver, 1 magic cloth,cleaning cloths are great for cleaning the screen of mobile phone and laptop after replacement.
  • Easy to replacement the screen cover, fit for any plastic cover case such as smartphone / tablets etc

Can an HDMI device cause clicking?

An HDMI device or HDMI-control command can interfere with startup or power behavior. Disconnect all external equipment, test the TV alone, then reconnect devices one at a time.

Is a clicking TV dangerous?

A normal isolated power-transition click is not automatically dangerous. Smoke, sparks, burning odor, liquid intrusion, visible damage, excessive heat, or sharp electrical buzzing requires immediate unplugging.

Should I keep power cycling a TV that clicks repeatedly?

No. Perform the manufacturer’s external power-cycle procedure once, disconnect accessories, and arrange service if repeated clicking and startup failure continue.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Why does the TV click with sound but no picture?

The TV may be receiving power while experiencing an input, cable, display, or backlight problem. Check Home or Menu, select another source, and try another cable and HDMI input.

When should I stop troubleshooting?

Stop immediately for smoke, sparks, burning smell, liquid, damage, excessive heat, or electrical arcing. Otherwise, stop after the outlet, physical-button, power-cycle, and external-device tests fail and contact authorized service.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 5
Kaisi Professional Electronics Opening Pry Tool Repair Kit Metal Spudger
Kaisi Professional Electronics Opening Pry Tool Repair Kit Metal Spudger
Professional grade stainless steel construction spudger tool kit ensures repeated use; Includes 7 plastic nylon pry tools and 2 steel pry tools, two ESD tweezers
$9.99

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Site Office

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.