What Causes Vertical Lines on a TV Screen?

You’re all set for a cozy movie night, popcorn in hand, the lights dimmed just right — and then it happens — the pivotal scene is interrupted by them. No, not the bad guys or a surprise twist, but those pesky vertical lines streaking across your screen. It’s the kind of plot twist no one asked for, and yet, here you are.

So, what’s causing these visual villains, and is there any hope of reclaiming your crystal-clear picture? Read on to discover what causes vertical lines on TV screens and what to do if yours is irreparable.

Why are There Vertical Lines on My TV screen?

Vertical lines in your TV’s image can be caused by any number of issues, from cable connections to the TV’s hardware. However, vertical lines typically indicate a problem with the internal components of your TV, like its timing control (con) board, delicate ribbon cable connections, or mainboard.

Still, each of the factors below can ultimately result in lines or other visual artifacts on your display:

• Loose or Faulty Input Cables: Fortunately, vertical lines aren’t always caused by issues with your TV; faulty HDMI, VGA, or display cables can also cause them. When cables are flexed repeatedly, or dust and dirt get into their connectors, their pins may not be able to make proper contact with the input ports on your TV, causing all sorts of issues — from periodic black screens to vertical and horizontal screen lines.
• Physical Damage: Accidental impacts, like bumping or dropping your TV, can dislodge internal components or irreversibly damage the LCD panel. This can ultimately lead to visible lines on the display.
• Loose Internal Connections: Vibrations — like those from frequent transportation — can cause internal ribbon cables to wiggle out of their connectors over time. Similarly to loose input cables, visual artifacts like vertical lines can appear if any internal cable pins aren’t fully connected.
• Moisture Exposure: Humidity and liquids are known nemeses of electronics. If moisture seeps into your TV from an accidental spill or an extra-humid environment, it can short-circuit or corrode metal contacts over time. Both of which can disrupt image quality or permanently damage your components.
• Aging Components: Nothing lasts forever, and TVs are no exception. Over time, parts like the con board, ribbon cables, and mainboard can degrade, causing visual artifacts.
• Bad Firmware: Sometimes, even firmware or software issues can cause problems. Incorrect TV settings or firmware glitches may affect how your TV processes images, temporarily causing lines to appear.

Can Vertical Lines on a TV Be Fixed?

The good news? In some cases, vertical lines can be resolved. If the issue stems from loose cable connections or incorrect TV settings/firmware, proper adjustments might restore your screen to its former glory.

However — and this is a big however — hardware issues like a damaged LCD screen or faulty con board are more complex and typically require professional repair. In cases like these, you have to weigh the cost of repair against the price of a new TV. Additionally, if you’re experiencing other issues, like screen burn-in or random shutdowns, chances are that it’s simply not worth it to repair your current TV.

Ultimately, if the repair cost outweighs or is close to the value of your current television, this issue may be a sign you should upgrade your TV.

So, Your TV Has Vertical Lines. What Now?

If your TV’s vertical lines are here to stay, don’t let them ruin your screen time. When you upgrade to a new TV, you’re not just saying goodbye to visual artifacts — you’re saying hello to better features and a more immersive experience. Whether it’s a sleek, high-contrast OLED screen or a massive display perfect for family movie nights, a new TV can completely transform your home entertainment.

Fortunately, new, high-quality TVs don’t have to break the bank. At Rent-A-Center, you can find an incredible selection of rent-to-own TVs from trusted brands like Samsung, TCL, and more. Plus, our agreements come with many benefits, including:

• Flexible Payment Options: Enjoy affordable payment schedules designed to fit your budget.
• Same as Cash Periods: Get the TV you want without worrying about interest within the first 4-6 months.
• Exchange Options: Rent-A-Center Exchange* allows you to exchange your TV for another item within the first six months of your agreement. Even better, the money you’ve already paid will be applied toward the total cost of the new product.

Ready to say goodbye to TV screen issues? Explore our top-brand TVs and find a sharper, more vibrant screen for your home today! Browse online or at your local Rent-A-Center.

*“RAC Exchange” program valid for agreements entered at select locations, is available to new and existing customers and applies to inventory obtainable by store location. Cash price of the item selected for exchange may not exceed approval amount, which is subject to validation and adjustment prior to exchange and may vary from original approval amount. Exchange requires execution of rental agreement for item selected for exchange, which must be completed within six (6) months following the first active rental date of item being returned for exchange. Agreement for item being returned for exchange must be in good standing (with all rental payments current) at the time of exchange and product must be in good condition. Rent paid for prior agreement will be applied to reduce the total cost to own for the replacement agreement but rent paid may not be applied in full to Same As Cash amount for replacement agreement. Any applicable Same As Cash period will apply to new agreement based on product selection and agreement term. The amount of rent paid from prior agreement eligible for application to Same As Cash amount for replacement agreement may vary from 40% to 66%, depending on your state of residence. Exchanges under program may not be combined with other discounts, offers or promotions. Participating locations only. Eligible items only. All items subject to availability and approval. See Store Manager for complete details.