How to fix Netflix not working on Sony Smart TV

You use your Sony Smart TV for several tasks such as browsing the internet and streaming TV shows and movies on streaming apps like Netflix.

However, since these products and services are made by humans, they’re not immune to errors that might disappoint you as the end-user. Most users have reported the inability to open the Netflix app as the most common issue. Others come with messages and error codes such as ‘Please check Network Settings to connect to an available network and use Netflix (-100).

It is not easy to tell the exact issue as to why your Netflix app is not working on Sony Smart TV. This issue can be resolved by restarting your router, Sony Smart TV or clearing cache/resetting your Netflix app or setting your TV back to default settings.

However, the issue with your Sony TV, Netflix app or your Wi-Fi might be minor and not easy to exactly pin-point it. It’s advisable to carry out troubleshooting to establish and fix the issue.

A summary of how to fix Netflix not working on Sony Smart TV

Sony has Android and non-Android Smart TVs, and they both support Netflix.

How to fix 

Android TV 

• Soft Reset or Power cycle

Steps

1. Disconnect your TV from the power source by unplugging it for 60 seconds and plug it back in to initiate a power cycle.
2. For a soft reset, on your Sony Smart TV remote, hold the power button for about 5 seconds.
3. Start up your TV and try launching Netflix.

• Check your Wi-Fi connection

Steps

1. Confirm your TV’s Built-in Wi-Fi is on. If it’s off, turn it on in the Network & Accessories category.
2. Select Settings and in Network & Accessories, select Network.
3. Click on Advanced Settings > Network Status > Check Connection.
4. On the next screen, click on Yes to proceed to network diagnosis.Check the connection results to ensure the connection works fine, if not ensure your Wi-Fi is correctly connected.
5. Try restarting your router by unplugging and plugging it back in the power source.

• Clear Netflix app cache

Sometimes when a lot of information sticks on the app, it tends to make it not work properly.

Steps

1. Go to your TV home screen.
2. Select Settings > app and click on Netflix.
3. Select the Clear data option and to confirm, click OK.

• Reset to factory settings

Steps

On your remote control, press the HOME button and select Settings.

Depending on your TV menu:

• Android 9 – Select Device Preferences > Reset
• Android 8.0 or earlier) – Select Storage and Reset

3. Select Factory data reset.

1. Select Erase Everything and Click on Yes.

This reset might take a while. Wait until the process is complete.

NB: By doing a factory reset, you’ll lose all your TV’s settings and data making your TV’s settings similar to a new one. To recover some of your app’s data, you may want to consider syncing your app with your Google account.

Non-Android TV

• Check your Wi-Fi connection

Steps

1. On your TV remote control, press HOME and select Settings.
2. Select System Settings > Set-up > Network > Home Network Setup > View Network Settings and Status > Check Connection > Yes.

Check the connection results to ensure the connection works fine, if not ensure your Wi-Fi is correctly connected.

1. Try restarting your router by unplugging and plugging it back in the power source.

• Clear Netflix app cache

Steps

This works on non-Android models 2016-2018

1. Select HOME > Settings > Customer Support > Initialize Personal Information > OK

For 2013-2015 models:

Steps

1. From the App menu, launch the browser.
2. Select Options > Browser Settings > Delete all Cookies.

• Factory Reset

Steps

Follow these steps if you’re able to operate your Home menus screen using a remote control

1. Press HOME > Settings > System Settings > Customer Support > Factory Settings > OK

If you’re unable to operate your Home screen using a remote control, follow these steps.

Steps

1. Unplug your TV from the power source and give it one minute before plugging it back in.
2. Switch on your TV and wait for 40 seconds for it to fully turn on.
3. Press and hold the UP ARROW button on your remote and pint it to your TV’s front and center.
4. The TV will restart. If it doesn’t, look for the TV’s power button.

NB: If you had your Plasma or LCD TV calibrated, then your special calibration settings will be lost.

Before carrying out a factory reset, it’s advisable to try unplugging and plugging back your TV to a power source.

Conclusion

Sony Smart TVs are powerful enough to handle your Netflix app. Try troubleshooting the issue starting with your router/Wi-Fi and perform a default setting as the last option.

FAQs 

1. Can I still watch Netflix on my Sony TV if it’s not a Smart TV?

Yes you can. All you need to do is look for a streaming device such as Amazon Fire TV Stick or Apple TV set -top box and you’re good to go.

1. Is it possible to stream Netflix content on multiple devices at the same time?

Yes. However, it depends on your subscription plan as they come with a limitation of how many devices can stream at the same time. Check your subscription plan and pay for the one that suits you.