- Soft and hard reset your Sony Google and Android TV
- Possible home hardware issues causing the error
- Troubleshooting by updating Sony TV software
- Frequent questions
- Will the above methods work for other TVs?
- Can I recover my data after a hard reset?
- Do I need an Internet connection to update my Sony TV?
- Why is my Sony TV flashing two or three times?
- Solve the red flickering problem on your Sony TV
You are about to watch your favorite show, but your Sony TV won’t turn on. Instead, a red light flashes four times. This event is Sony’s self-diagnosis option, which indicates possible system malfunctions. The error may be caused by a faulty power supply, overheating, capacitor issues, or LED driver board issues. Whatever the reason, there are multiple solutions to get your Sony TV working again.
This article will review how to fix your Sony TV when it flashes four times.
Soft and hard reset your Sony Google and Android TV
When dealing with this TV error, it is best to try a soft reset first. This is a relatively simple process that requires minimal time. If soft reset doesn’t work, try hard reset option.
Soft Reset Your Sony TV
Soft reset option is the easiest way to fix Sony TV blinking light error. While it may not resolve more complex internal issues, it will rule out system updates or Wi-Fi loop errors. It might also be the best option because hard reset loses all your data. Here’s how to soft reset your Sony TV:
- Unplug your Sony TV.
- Press and hold the power button for about 30 seconds. Then wait at least two minutes.

- After two minutes, plug your TV back in and turn it on.

- You may notice a red light. This means that the soft reset worked.

Once the soft reset is complete, you should be able to watch your Sony TV without any issues. However, if the four red flashes persist, proceed with hard reset the Sony TV.
Hard reset your Sony TV
A hard reset can quickly resolve the four flashing lights issue if you are using a Sony TV running Google or Android. However, please note that you will lose any stored data you have on the TV. This method is for Sony TVs that only have a power button. Is that how it works:
- Turn off, then unplug your TV from the power source and wait a minute.

- Plug it back in and hold the power button until a white light flashes.

- Release the power button when your Sony TV automatically starts performing a hard reset.

If your Sony TV has three buttons on the case (power, volume up and down), the hard reset option is slightly different. Here’s how to perform a hard reset on this type of TV:
- Unplug the TV before plugging it back in.

- Press and hold the power button and the volume down button.

- When a white light appears and turns green, your Sony TV has started restarting.

- Wait until the light turns white again.

There is one more variation to perform a hard reset on your Sony TV. You may come across a settings menu that you will need to operate. Here’s what to do if it appears after using the methods above:
- Select “start” and then “settings.”

- In the new list of options, select “Storage and reset” and then “Factory data reset.”

- Select “Delete All” and then “Yes.”

Once you navigate through the menu using this method, wait for your TV to completely reboot. This should fix the four flashing lights error your Sony TV is having. This method will only work for Sony TVs running Android and Google.
Possible home hardware issues causing the error
In addition to the problems mentioned above, possible hardware problems in your home can cause your Sony TV to malfunction. While this is not as common, it is good to rule it out. These are the most common utility problems you might have:
- Power problems: The wall outlet may be broken. To fix this problem, turn off your TV and unplug it from the power source. Then connect another device to see if it works properly. This will indicate if there is a problem with the plug.
- Voltage: While your outlet may be working properly, it may not deliver enough voltage for the TV to operate. When your TV is plugged in and turned on, look for a solid red light instead of a flashing one. This indicates that the Sony TV is receiving enough voltage to function properly.
- Direct power supply: Be sure to remove any smart plugs or surge switches. Instead, plug your Sony TV directly into an outlet.
- Burnt Internal Components – Sometimes, the internal parts of your Sony TV may have been burnt. After unplugging the TV, feel if any areas are hot. Problems with internal components may require the expertise of a professional repairman. However, opening the back panel will void the warranty.
Troubleshooting by updating Sony TV software
When using a Sony TV, errors may occur if you do not constantly update the firmware. Even if you just bought the Sony TV, checking for available updates is still good practice. This will also give your Sony TV additional features and ensure it runs smoothly.
Here’s how to update the software on your Sony TV:
- On your Sony TV remote control, select the settings button. It’s a button with a white gear.

- Navigate to “Customer Support” and then “Product Settings and Support.”

- Select “Automatic Software Update” or “Software Update.”

- Choose your home network to connect the TV and then confirm the update.
However, the process is different for other types of Sony TVs. If you are using a Sony TV running Android, here is how you can update it:
- On your remote control, select the “Home” option.

- Select “Help” and then “Status and Diagnostics.”

- Select “System Software Update” and then “Software Update” before confirming it.

If you are using a Sony TV from Google, you can update it this way:
- Press the settings option on your Sony TV remote control.

- Select the “System” option and then “About.”

- Press the “System Software Update” option.

As for the firmware, your Sony TV will update it automatically whenever it is connected to the Internet. Make sure you have a stable connection to your network. If you are still facing issues with the same four red flashes, it is best to contact Sony support number. Make sure you know the model name of your Sony TV.
Frequent questions
Will the above methods work for other TVs?
Apart from hardware issues, the troubleshooting methods focus on Sony TVs. If your device is not a Sony TV but it still flickers the same, you may have different settings, remote controls, and troubleshooting options.
Can I recover my data after a hard reset?
Unfortunately not. Once you reset your Sony TV, you will lose all the data you had on it.
Do I need an Internet connection to update my Sony TV?
A stable Wi-Fi connection is required to update the software on your Sony TV. As for the firmware, the TV will update automatically if you have a stable Internet connection.
Why is my Sony TV flashing two or three times?
Several flashes of red light always indicate a certain type of error. For example, two flashes means that the device has problems with the power board. However, no matter how many times you flash your Sony TV, a wide range of troubleshooting options may work.
Solve the red flickering problem on your Sony TV
The blinking red light on your Sony TV can be caused by several issues. Some examples include outdated software, overheating, and problems with internal components. To fix this, it is best to start with a soft reset. If that doesn’t work, you can reset or update your Sony TV. If you feel that any area of the TV has overheated, you should call a professional to resolve the issue. However, this will void the warranty.
Did any of the above methods help to resolve your Sony TV error? Did you need to perform a reset or just update the TV? Let us know in the comments p below.