Perform Factory Reset TCL Roku TV: Step-by-Step Guide & Tips

How to Perform a Factory Reset on a TCL Roku TV: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you are considering selling your TCL Roku TV, giving it away, or simply need to restore it to its original settings due to performance issues, performing a factory reset is the way to go. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do it.

Using the Remote Control

To initiate a factory reset using your remote control, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to Settings:

   • Use your remote to go to the home screen and select the "Settings" option.
   • You can do this by pressing the left button on your remote to move into the submenu and then selecting "Settings"[1][2].

2. Access Advanced System Settings:

   • Once in the "Settings" menu, use the up arrow to navigate to "System" and select it.
   • From there, go down to "Advanced system settings" and select this option[1][2].

3. Select Factory Reset:

• In the "Advanced system settings" menu, you will find the "Factory reset" option. Highlight and select "Factory reset everything"[1][2].

4. Enter the Reset Code:

   • You will be prompted to enter a code displayed on the screen. This is a safety measure to ensure the reset is not accidental.
   • Enter the code and select "OK"[1][2].

5. Complete the Reset:

   • After entering the code, the TV will go through a reboot process, which may take about a minute or a minute and a half.
   • Once the reset is complete, the TV will return to its original factory default screen, and you will need to go through the guided setup process again, including reconnecting to the internet, re-linking your Roku account, and reloading streaming channels[1][2].

Without Using the Remote Control

If you have lost your remote control or if it is non-responsive, you can still perform a factory reset using the TV's physical buttons or a smartphone app.

Using TV Buttons

1. Power Off and Unplug:

   • Ensure your TV is powered on and disconnect any connected devices like cable boxes or gaming consoles.
   • Press and hold the power button to turn off the TV, then unplug it from its power source.
   • Wait for about 10 seconds before plugging it back in[5].

2. Access Setup Screen:

   • When you power the TV back on, hold down the volume down button and the channel down button simultaneously.
   • Continue holding these buttons until the TV displays the setup screen[5].

3. Navigate to Factory Reset:

• Use the TV buttons to navigate through the setup menu to find the "System" or "Support" section.
• Locate the "Factory reset" or "Reset TV" option and confirm the reset[5].

Using a Smartphone App

1. Download the App:

   • If your TV has Wi-Fi capabilities, you can use your smartphone as a remote control.
   • Download the TV manufacturer's app or a universal remote app from your app store[5].

2. Connect to Wi-Fi:

   • Ensure your smartphone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your TV.
   • Launch the app and find the option for TV control[5].

3. Access TV Settings:

• Navigate to the TV settings or menu within the app.
• Find the option for "System" or "Support" and then locate "Factory reset" or "Reset TV"[5].

4. Confirm the Reset:
   • Confirm the factory reset, and the TV will go through the reset process, returning to its default settings.
   • Be prepared to set up your TV again as if it were new[5].

Additional Tips and Considerations

• Data Erasure: A factory reset will remove all stored personal data, including settings, network connections, Roku data, and menu preferences. This is why it is recommended if you are transferring the TV to another owner or need to switch from store mode to home mode[2][3].

• Recovery Mode: If your TV encounters issues after a factory reset, such as being stuck on "updating channels," you may need to use the Recovery Mode. This involves pressing and holding the reset button for approximately 12 seconds or using a straightened paperclip to press the reset button. Recovery Mode allows you to clear all data and software from your TV and reinstall the operating system[3][4].

• Post-Reset Setup: After the factory reset, you will need to repeat the guided setup process, which includes reconnecting to the internet, re-linking your Roku account, reloading streaming channels, and performing an antenna TV setup (channel scan) if applicable[1][2].

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully perform a factory reset on your TCL Roku TV, ensuring it returns to its original, out-of-the-box state.