Fixed: Vizio TV Dark Band (Step-by-Step Guide)

You’re not alone if you’re dealing with a Vizio TV with a dark band across the screen. This common issue can often be fixed with a few simple steps. In this article, we’ll walk you through what you need to do to fix your Vizio TV and get it back to working properly

Our technical team’s step-by-step guide will make it easy to get your TV back in tip-top shape.

How Do I Get Rid of the Black Band on My Vizio TV?

If you own a Vizio TV, you may have noticed a black band running along the top or bottom of your screen. This is a common issue that can usually be fixed relatively easily. 

Here are the eight methods you can use to eliminate the black band on your Vizio TV.

Method #1: Wipe Your TV Screen Clean

The first method is the simplest: just wipe your screen clean! This will remove any dirt, dust, or smudges that may be causing the problem. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the screen in a circular motion gently.

Method #2: Lower the Backlight Levels

One possible cause of image retention is having your backlight levels set too high. To fix this, simply lower the backlight levels on your Vizio TV. You can find the backlight setting in your TV’s menus.

adjusting picture settings on VIzio TV

Just navigate to Settings > Picture > Backlight and adjust the levels until the black band disappears. 

Method #3: Do a Soft Reset

If lowering the backlight levels doesn’t work, try doing a soft reset on your Vizio TV. To do this, unplug your TV from power and then plug it back in. Once your TV has restarted, see if the black band is still there. 

Method #4: Do a Factory Reset

If all else fails, you can always try doing a factory reset on your Vizio TV. This will restore your TV to its default settings and eliminate any image retention issues you’re having.

To factory reset your Vizio TV, navigate to Settings > System > Reset & admin and select “factory reset.” Remember that this will wipe out your custom settings, so you will need to manually to configure them again afterward. 

Method #5: Plug the TV Into Another Power Source

If you’re using an extension cord or power strip to power your TV, try plugging it directly into the wall outlet. Sometimes, these cords and strips can cause power issues that result in a black band on the TV.

tv power cord

Method #6: Inspect the Inputs

If you have any devices plugged into your TV, disconnect them and see if that fixes the problem. Once you’ve done that, reconnect each device one at a time to see if any of them is causing the issue. If you find that a particular device is a culprit, try using a different HDMI port or cable. 

Method #7: Use the DVR

Another way to eliminate the black band on your Vizio TV is to use the DVR. Oftentimes, the DVR has a setting that will allow you to change the overscan. This will remove any black bands from your screen. 

Method #8: Have the TV Light Sensors Checked

If none of these methods have worked so far, it’s possible that there’s an issue with one of the light sensors on your Vizio TV. The best way to fix this is by taking it to a Vizio TV repair shop so that a professional can take a look at it and determine what’s wrong. 

Have it Fixed if it’s Still Covered by Vizio’s Warranty

It depends on when you purchased your TV. If you bought your TV within the last year or two, then chances are the black band issue is covered under Vizio’s warranty.

Vizio TV placed on a table

However, if your TV is more than a few years old, Vizio’s warranty [1] will likely expire, and you will have to pay for the repair out of pocket.

If your Vizio TV is not covered by warranty, don’t worry! You can still do some things to try and fix the black band.

Conclusion

By following the steps above in their intended order, you should be able to fix the Vizio TV dark band that’s blocking your screen. 

However, if you are still having trouble removing it from your view, don’t hesitate to contact Vizio’s customer support or have the TV inspected by a professional.

Writer

Willie Greer
Willie Greer
Willie Greer is the founder of The Product Analyst. A cinephile, he has made it a personal quest to achieve the awesomest home theater possible. He now shares what he has learned through the years on the site, and has enlisted the help of tech-savvy colleagues in providing more insight about today’s most sought-after gadgets.