Kindle Troubleshooting – Simple Tips to Fix Common Issues

I know it’s terribly frustrating when you have a problem with your Kindle, when all you want to do is read.

Hopefully, this Essential Kindle Troubleshooting guide will get you back on track and give you the confidence to solve any issues in the future.

I’ve structured this list into 4 categories. Select one and let’s get started:

1. Connectivity
2. Frozen or Start-up Issue
3. Battery
4. Software & Library Management

Have a specific problem that’s not on the list?

Jump to the comments section below and I’ll give you quick expert advice to solve any issue (Average response time 2 hours).

Common Kindle Problems and Fixes

Frozen Kindle

Problem: Kindle unresponsive or frozen issue.

Solution: Restart device. Press and hold the power button for 40 seconds until the device restarts.

Battery Problems

Problem: Kindle battery does not last long (within a few days of use).

Finally, check the device for any bulges. Easiest way is to place it on a flat table and see if it rocks. If you spot something contact Amazon Customer service to see if they will replace the device (even if it’s outside of the 12-month warranty, still try).

Kindle Book Not Showing Up

Problem: Kindle books I have purchased are not showing up.

Solution: Make sure the device is connected to Wi-Fi and sync by going to the menu and selecting Sync & Check for Items.

If the book still doesn't appear, try logging out and back into your Amazon account on your device.

Troubleshooting Connectivity Issues

Connecting to Wi-Fi

Problem: Kindle experiences connectivity issues with Wi-Fi networks.

Solution:

1. Ensure you and the device are near to the WiFi router.
2. Check Airplane Mode is OFF by tapping the top the display to bring the settings menu down.
3. Ensure that WiFi logo is enabled. You should now see a WiFi logo at the top right of the display.
4. Be sure that you are connecting to the right WiFi Network. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi & Bluetooth > WiFi Networks. Make sure the WiFi Network name is the same as the one on the label of your WiFi router.
5. If you have the wrong WiFi router, delete saved Wi-Fi passwords on by going to Settings > Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, then tap on "Delete Wi-Fi Passwords" and try connecting again.

Syncing Your Kindle

Problem: Kindle will not sync properly, causing issues with downloading books, accessing bookmarks, or updating reading progress.

Solution:

1. Ensure Kindle is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network with a good signal, at least 3 bars.
2. Restart device by press and hold of the power button for 40 seconds and select Restart.
3. Upon restart, manually sync Kindle by tapping on the top of the screen, selecting the menu icon, and tapping on "Sync and Check for Items" manual sync. This usually fixes any synchronization issues.

Bluetooth Connectivity Issue

Problem: Kindle struggles with Bluetooth connectivity.

Solution:

1. Tap the three dots and select Settings.
2. Ensure Bluetooth is turned On Kindle only.
3. Select Bluetooth Devices.
4. Ensure the Bluetooth device you have is turned on and near to the Kindle.
5. Tap Rescan on the Kindle and the devices name should pop-up (you may need to wait 30 seconds)
6. If needed, I restart both devices and try pairing them again to see if the Bluetooth connection improves.

Connecting Kindle to PC via USB Issues

Problem: I encounter issues when connecting my Kindle to a PC via USB.

1. Try to use a different USB cable to ensure the connection issue isn't due to a faulty cable.
2. As previously mentioned, try with more than one device and with different operating systems.
3. If the problem remains, I restart both the Kindle and the computer, then try connecting them again via USB.

Advanced Troubleshooting

Dealing with a Frozen Kindle

Problem: Sometimes, my Kindle might freeze and become unresponsive.

Solution: In such cases, I usually perform a simple restart by pressing and holding the power button for about 30-40 seconds. This often solves the problem.

If it doesn't, I connect my Kindle to a power source and let it charge for about half an hour. Then, I try restarting it again.

Factory Resetting

When dealing with a persistent fault, such as a slow or occasional frozen device, a factory reset might be necessary.

Before performing this, I always back up my data, as a factory reset will erase all personal information and downloaded content.

Here are the steps I follow for a factory reset:

1. From the home screen, I tap the Settings icon (gear-shaped) or swipe down from the top.
2. Select Device Options.
3. Choose Reset.
4. Reset window will now say “Do you want to reset your Kindle?”
5. Provided you have backed up all your data and are happy to continue, select Yes.

It's important to remember that after a factory reset, my Kindle will need to be set up like a new device. You will need to re-register it using my Amazon account and download any previously purchased content from the cloud.

Kindle Device Cleaning

Maintaining Kindle - Library Management

Whilst it’s nice to have a complete digital bookshelf of every ebook you’ve ever read, you don’t have to download the book itself and take valuable storage space.

This means regularly removing content that I've already finished reading or no longer need. You can do this by going to Settings -> Device Options -> Advanced Options -> Storage Management.

From here, choose between Manual Removal and Quick Archive options to remove content and free up space. Good library management keeps your device running smoothly and ensures you can find and access the content I want to read.

Software Updates

Keeping your Kindle updated is an important step in ensuring smooth performance and avoiding common issues.

In this section, I'll cover how to check your Kindle's software version, enable automatic updates, and manually update your device if needed.

Version Check

To check the current software version on your Kindle, follow these simple steps:

1. Tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines) from the home screen.
2. Select "Settings."
3. Tap "Device Options."
4. Choose "Device Info" to view details about your Kindle's hardware and firmware.

Here, you'll see the Firmware Version, which indicates the release of the software your Kindle is running. Compare this information with the latest software version available to ensure your Kindle stays up-to-date.

Enabling Automatic Updates

Kindle devices are set to receive automatic updates by default.

When connected wirelessly, your Kindle should automatically download and install software updates as and when they become available. However, if you wish to double-check that automatic updates are enabled, follow these steps:

1. Tap "Settings" from your Kindle's home screen.
2. Scroll down and select "Device Options."
3. Click on "Advanced Options" and ensure "Automatic Updates" is set to "On."

There may be instances where any updates are greyed out. In this case you can follow our guide which explains what grey out means and how to resolve it

Manual Updates

If your Kindle has missed an automatic update or if you prefer to manually update your device, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Kindle Software Update page and find the download link for your specific Kindle model.
2. Connect your Kindle to your computer using a USB cable and transfer the downloaded update file to the Kindle's root directory.
3. Safely disconnect your Kindle from the computer.
4. On your Kindle home screen, tap the Menu icon, and then tap "Settings."
5. Tap the Menu icon again, and then tap "Update Your Kindle."
6. Tap "OK" to perform the update. Your device will display a message stating "Your Kindle Is Updating" and will restart once the update is complete.

Manually updating your Kindle is a more hands-on approach, ensuring that your device always has the latest software features and improvements. Remember to keep it charged and connected to Wi-Fi for the updates to be successful.