Troubleshooting The Most Common Computer Monitor Problems

Updated Oct 11, 2021

Problems with the computer monitor may not be too common, but it will definitely make your life miserable if you can’t proceed with what you’re doing. In this article, we will talk about some of the most popular issues with the computer monitor, and techniques on how to address each one of them.

Computer monitor problems are usually linked to hardware issues, but some concerns may actually have something to do with the software. Bottomline, don’t panic! Keep calm and check this troubleshooting guide.

Problem #1: Monitor won’t turn on

Solution

1. Check if the monitor’s power cable is plugged into a working outlet or power strip.
2. Try using another power cable or electrical socket.
3. Check and make sure that the power button isn’t stuck.

Problem #2: Dead pixel

Solution

1. Try applying pressure with your finger when you turn the monitor on and off.  With any luck, this can help kick-start the electrical signal being sent to the pixel.
2. If that doesn’t work, try a program which rapidly changes the colors of the monitor.

Problem #3: The monitor is already turned on but there is no picture

Solution

1. Check if the video cable is connected to the CPU firmly.
2. If the monitor power indicator light is green but you still can’t see a picture on the monitor, turn the computer off by pressing and holding the power button until it turns off. Once it’s turned off, turn it right back on by pressing the power button on the CPU.
   • If you suddenly a picture appears, you may be having an issue with the display settings in Windows. The resolution may be set too high or the monitor refresh rate may be set improperly.
   • Start the system in “Safe Mode” and make any needed display setting changes that you may require. Start with the lowest resolution and refresh rate when you make the setting changes.
3. Hold a lamp or flashlight right in front of the monitor. If you can see a picture in the background with the light on it, then the monitor’s backlighting may be malfunctioning and the screen will need to be replaced.
4. Connect the monitor to a different computer or CPU.
   • If it still doesn’t display a picture, replace the video cable.
   • If it shows a picture, troubleshoot the video card of the first computer.

Problem #4: Image color and resolution issues

Solution

1. Try updating the driver.
2. If that doesn’t solve the problem, you may need a new video card entirely. This is quite common among old computers. Therefore, check if your computer is about to retire, because you just might consider buying a new PC altogether.

Problem #5: Video light is too dark or bright

Solution

1. Reset the display settings to default.
2. If you’ve made changes in the brightness and contrast controls and the screen still seems dark, you may need to take the monitor in for repair.

Problem #6: Images on the screen do not match the screen size

Solution

1. Check your monitor’s documentation to see the maximum resolution you can use.
2. In Windows 10, right-click an open area in Desktop, select Display settings, select Advanced display settings, select the Resolution.

Problem #7: Flickering monitor

Solution

1. Try unplugging and firmly reattaching the cable to the video input and outputs.
2. To reduce flicker on your monitor, try to increase the Refresh Rate in Windows.
3. In Windows 10, right-click the open area in Desktop, select Display settings, select Advanced display settings, select Display Adapter properties. Click Monitor tab, select the refresh rate that suits your monitor.

Problem #8: Monitor and video card problem

Solution

1. Reset the video card.
2. Change the video.
3. Replace the video card.
4. Replace motherboard.

Problem #9: Crack or visible spot on the screen

Solution

Unfortunately, if you see a huge crack or black spot on the screen, this indicates physical damage caused by blunt force. If you’re distracted by the crack or if you cannot see much of the image anymore, your best solution is to replace it with a new monitor.

It pays to know what to do when problems arise while using your monitor. If you think you have done every possible way to fix issues with your computer monitor, it may be time to send it to a technician to have it professionally checked and fixed.

Of course, the best precautionary strategy to avoid problems like this is to buy the best monitor. Don’t fall for cheap prices, because there’s a big chance that you’re purchasing a monitor that will only last for a few months.