Xbox Series X No Signal Issue

It’s a fairly common issue to plug in and turn on your Xbox Series X and be met with a “No Signal” error displayed on your TV, or even just a blank screen. Luckily this guide will walk you through the different kinds of causes for a “No Signal” error and how to fix the issue.

There are several different methods that can be DIY or, if you don’t feel comfortable, you can find professionals to fix the issue for you, so follow along to find out.

Xbox Series X No Signal Common Causes

There are several components that are usually involved in a “No Signal” error: the HDMI and cable systems, Xbox software, or your TV software/settings. The following list identifies several specific issues that could be causing the error.

1. Cable or input issues: Cables could be disconnected or faulty.
2. HDMI system: Ports could be damaged or dirty.
3. Xbox software: Your Xbox could have a glitch or a damaged file.
4. Cable box or HDMI switch: Your cable box or HDMI switch might be glitching, damaged, or faulty.
5. TV display: Your TV could have a glitch or the settings are incorrect.

Easy DIY Fixes

To find out if any of the issues above are causing the “No Signal” error, you can simply work through the list below to troubleshoot. Many of the causes can be fixed with a reset or a cleaning, but if you’re uncomfortable with any troubleshooting, there are professionals who can help.

Check Cables

When checking your cables, you want to make sure the cables are properly and completely connected to both your Xbox and your TV. It can help to also check these connections by switching which ports the cables are plugged into (when possible). You can also take a different device and connect it to your TV with your HDMI cable to ensure that the cable is not faulty.

Check Ports

If the cables are functioning but there is still no signal, there could be an issue with the HDMI ports on either your Xbox or your TV. When checking your HDMI ports, make sure they are clean from any dust or other debris. If they are dirty, make sure to clean them carefully and thoroughly. This can be done with a cotton swab and some isopropyl alcohol. Remember, it is important that you make sure the ports are completely dry before you plug your cables back in.

You will also want to check for any kind of damage, which can be caused by incorrect cables or if a cable has been inserted too forcefully. If there is damage to an HDMI port, it will need to be fixed or most likely replaced.

Power Cycle Xbox

The “No Signal” error could also be caused by an Xbox glitch, which can be fixed by resetting or power cycling your Xbox. Your Xbox must be on to begin the power cycle process. Press and hold the Xbox button for 10 seconds or until the LED’s turn off Wait a few seconds and unplug your Xbox from its power source Leave your Xbox unplugged for at least one minute Plug it back in and press and hold the Xbox button until your Xbox turns back on

Power Cycle Cable Box or HDMI Switch

If you have a cable box or HDMI switch connected to your TV it may be affecting your signal and video source and causing the “No Signal” error. The first thing you should check for is that each of these are clean of dust and debris and that there no damage, similar to the previously mentioned cable and port checks.

After you've checked and cleaned all cables and ports connecting your Xbox with your TV, and if the error still persists, power cycle both the cable box and the HDMI switch as well. This is done differently depending on the type of cable box/switch you have but basic instructions are below.

Cable Box

1. Unplug the power supply cord from the cable box
2. Leave unplugged for a minute
3. Check that the other cables are securely plugged into the box
4. Plug the power supply cord back into the cable box
5. The cable box will take about 5 minutes to completely turn on

HDMI Switch

1. Unplug the power supply from HDMI Switch
2. Leave unplugged for at least 30 seconds
3. Plug power supply back into HDMI Switch
4. If your HDMI has a reset button, press and hold it for 10 seconds

Power Cycle TV

The Xbox Series "No Signal" issue may also occur due to a TV glitch. First, check to make sure your TV is completely up to date. Once your TV is completely updated, it should be reset or power cycled. To reset follow along with the next steps.

1. Make sure your TV is off (not just in sleep or power save mode).
2. Unplug it from its power source and leave it unplugged for 10 minutes.
3. If it has a power button, press and hold for 10 seconds (skip if there is no power button).
4. Plug your TV back into its power source and turn it back on.

DIY HDMI Port Replacement

If you're wondering if you want to try replacing the HDMI Port on your Xbox Series X yourself but aren't sure what all is involved, we suggest watching this video to get a better idea:

Additional Help

ShaneFix

Some of the testing and repair to resolve an Xbox Series X "no signal" issue can be advanced. If you don’t have the necessary skills or tools to do it yourself, there are professionals that can help. Shane is a contractor who used to work for TronicsFix repairing consoles. He now runs his own repair business, ShaneFix.com, where you can mail-in consoles to be repaired.

TronicsFix

While TronicsFix no longer offers services for sending in console repairs, they do have plenty of videos you can watch online to help you clean and fix consoles yourself. For example, here is the TronicsFix YouTube video guide to cleaning your Xbox Series X.

About the Author: Grace Morales